Youth Without Shelter

Youth Without ShelterEnding Homelessness…one youth at a time, one step at a time.

The City of Toronto is one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Nonetheless, we have the largest homeless population in Canada. 28% of homeless people in Toronto are aged between 16 and 24.

Youth Homelessness:

  • It is estimated that each year 10,000 youth will find themselves living on the streets of Toronto
  • On any given night, 1500 – 2000 youth in Toronto are homeless
  • Youth face barriers to income support, education, paid employment and rental accommodation simply due to their age
  • The longer youth remain homeless, the worse their health and life chances become

The Youth We Serve:

  • Youth Without Shelter represents all levels of socio-economic, religious and cultural background and sexual orientation
  • Our youth are between the ages of 16 and 24
  • 60% of our clients are male
  • Over 70% have experienced some form of sexual, physical or emotional abuse
  • Approximately 30% are experiencing mental health issues
  • Approximately 34% have considered suicide
  • Approximately 33% suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Approximately 20% are struggling with addictions
  • Approximately 65% come from families with substance abuse problems
  • Prior to arriving at YWS, 40% have gone without food for at least one day in the past week
  • Approximately 60% of homeless youth have completed Grade 11 or less

 

Sources: CBC News Report No Way Home 2004; Youth Homelessness in Canada, The Road To Solutions by Raising the Roof, March 2009; Improving the Health of Canadians: Mental Health and Homelessness 2006 Toronto by Canadian Institute for Health Information.