‘On the Horizon’ Blog
There are many myths and stereotypes about homeless youth that are widely believed in our community. This misinformation perpetuates the stigma of homelessness, decreasing empathy for an already vulnerable population. Moreover, these stereotypes negatively impact the self-esteem of youth experiencing homelessness.
These myths must be dispelled to better support homeless youth and take action against homelessness.
Ahmed has a serious health condition, putting him at a higher risk of complications from COVID-19. “I know I’m more vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic because I have a weak immune system, but I feel safe at Horizons. I feel safe because the staff treat me well. They ask me how I’m doing and really care about me. That’s why I feel good here. I really appreciate that.”
The term “social isolation” has become part of our everyday dialogue during the COVID19 outbreak. Individuals have been asked by Public Health Officials to physically distance from one another and consequently, there have been growing conversations online about the emotional challenges of spending so much time alone. For homeless youth, social isolation is not a new experience.
Loss of income. Panic and uncertainty. Social isolation. Fear of serious illness. These are extremely stressful experiences for any person. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Horizons for Youth’s residents are experiencing these stressors…while homeless. The potential mental health impact of this crisis on our residents is alarming.
Many of our residents were so close to exiting the shelter system and now, their lives have been put on hold. In only a matter of a few weeks, the opportunities they had to escape homelessness have disappeared. They are now stuck in homelessness for an indefinite period of time, which is demoralizing.
In light of a 2016 study which found that 85.4% of homeless youth in Canada are experiencing a mental health crisis and 42% had attempted suicide at least once (Schwan et al, 2018) group environments like these send a message to the many HFY residents experiencing mental health challenges that they are not alone.
“Horizons for Youth is a big part of how Bootcamps for Change got started” Katie explains. “I learned on their website that they had limited funding for fitness and wellness programs, so I got in touch with their team and told them that I’m a certified Personal Trainer and would like to offer free boot camp classes once a week.”
