In Ontario, youth homelessness is a major problem. “Every year, over 35,000 young Canadians aged 13 to 25 become homeless.” This does not include "hidden homelessness," which refers to people who do not seek assistance or services and go unnoticed as homeless.

Domestic and family violence are the leading causes of youth homelessness. “Over 25% of young adults between the ages of 13 and 25 become homeless as a result of domestic or family violence.” The majority of these young adults did not choose to be in this situation and do not have a choice; it is beyond their control. Their current living situation is mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting. Housing shortages, inadequate living conditions, poverty, and other disadvantages are among the other issues. These living conditions eventually take a toll on children, affecting their ability to focus on ordinary tasks such as schooling, friendships, mental health, and future planning.

This disadvantage of being homeless as a youth is not having a future path to follow due to a lack of employment, education, and the inability to support a family, community, or even themselves. Furthermore, with the rise in homelessness, many young adults are experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, leading to suicide as the leading cause of mortality among young people. Many young individuals today are unemployed, illiterate, and unable to advocate for themselves.

With fewer and fewer people becoming informed on the subject, youth are being overlooked and given no hope of getting back on track to fulfill their goals. These young adults are potentiall leaders of tommorw. Our system fails to recognise and support these individuals, we, as citizens, should find a way to spread awareness and protect these promising young people.

How can you help? 

My goal is to spread awareness on youth homelessness. As a single person you hold so much power and can help in many ways. You can take your first step towards action by signing this petition and sharing it with others so that they can also become informed on the situation at hand. If you would like to further help you can donate to many homeless shelters or even volunteer your time there. Help change someone's future !