One of a Kind
Snowflakes are one of the many wonders of our world: they are a miracle of nature – no two are the same. Similar to the youth we serve here at YWS, each snowflake is formed according to its unique path taken, the elements that it encounters, and its resiliency. With our wrap-around supports and programming, YWS staff focus on the individual needs of each youth, while providing a safe place for them to call home for the holidays.
Join our fight to end youth homelessness by donating to our “Home for the Holidays” campaign that will help our youth discover their individual potential on their path out of homelessness. Matched up to $270,000 until Dec 31, thanks to a group of generous benefactors, your donation will support our youth during one of the most challenging times of the year.
A common misconception about youth experiencing homelessness is that they do not wish to go to school, find a job, or pay rent. This could not be farther from the truth. Youth realize how important their education is, and actively search for ways to participate and access the same opportunities as their peers. The dreams of young people do not change depending on their residential status. All youth want to reach the stars, and they seek opportunities to do so.
Here is the story of a youth who first experienced homelessness at the age of 16 and applied to our Stay in School Program in order to achieve their academic dreams.
“I was sixteen years old when I first experienced homelessness. There were no youth shelter beds available at the time, so I ended up in a regular shelter where I was the youngest one there. Although it did provide me with a safe place to sleep, it was not very well suited for me and I began looking elsewhere for places to stay, which is when a social worker told me about the Stay In School Program at Youth Without Shelter.
It seemed like a good fit considering the fact that I was already very adamant about my education, but little did I know how much it would impact me to become the young woman I am today. I went from thinking that I would have to drop out of school to earn money to being able to pass all my classes with flying colours while working numerous jobs over the years. I made friends that have become my chosen family, connected with staff who genuinely wished to see me succeed and even had other supports such as a tutor and mental health counselling.
This eventually led to my university acceptance and current journey in Downtown Toronto, as I wanted to move to be closer to work and school. Despite moving, Youth Without Shelter will always be my home. The people there lifted me up in ways I cannot express in words. Throughout my time there, I grew to be more confident, resilient and kind, not only to others but to myself as well. I will always look back on my memories within YWS fondly and truly believe that everything, from the people to the structure of the Stay In School Program itself, has taught me to build a strong foundation for future success.”
When no one is expecting them home, we are.
Holiday Match Campaign Benefactors
