The Rise in Youth Homelessness in Canada Essay example -- Sociology, H

Today in Canada, a rise in youth homelessness is being observed across the country. Despite common assumptions, the issue of street youth is not isolated to Toronto or Montreal, but has become pervasive across the country. Although accurate statistics are impossible to come by, the disturbing reality is that both urban centers and rural communities nationwide, are struggling to provide their youth with adequate, affordable housing. Issues surrounding the supply and affordability of housing, combined with personal circumstances characterized by instability, are distancing youth’s access to housing. These causes and their overall consequences, must be faced before lasting solutions can be shaped by society. Housing Canada’s street youth will be impossible without action at every level. Every Canadian citizen has an immense role to play in providing these youth with promising futures. There are numerous causes which have led to the existence of youth homelessness in Canada. As with the wider study of homelessness, it must be stressed that no cause can be viewed exclusively from the others (Layton 2008: 54). The causes of this national crisis are extremely complex, and interconnected. However, despite this complexity, there are many patterns which have been found to exist among homeless youth. They have been found to be primarily social and economic. The social factors contributing to homelessness are unique for each individual however, the majority of homeless youth report having been emotionally abused or neglected. According to the Enhanced Surveillance of Canadian Street Youth (E-SYS), conflict with parents was the principal reason that most street youth reported for having left home. LGBT youth are over-represented among... ...rengthen self-confidence and motivation. Without proper outreach services, the provision of transitional and affordable housing will never reach its full potential in removing Canadian youth from the streets. Canada’s youth do not belong on the streets. They belong in safe, and supportive environments where they are able to succeed as members of an integrated society. The end of youth homelessness will benefit every Canadian. And therefore, the challenge of housing Canada’s street youth must be confronted as a collective society. The federal government must allocate funds towards the provision of affordable and transitional housing, while the provincial government must provide social services to support and motivate youth. There is a way home for Canada’s street youth, and it is through the activism and participation of individuals like you.