Every year, thousands of youth experience homelessness and sex trafficking in Canada.
Covenant House provides a safe space for youth who are homeless, trafficked or at risk.
Over the last decade, we have seen a shift. More young people are staying with us for longer periods of time. This is because the youth we serve are facing more complex challenges. In addition to abuse, neglect and family breakdown, more youth struggle with mental health, finding affordable housing and getting stable, meaningful jobs.
But there's more to the story.1
Homelessness or trafficking can happen to anyone. However, young people who face added barriers because of disability, sexuality or racial identity are often over-represented. And 59 per cent of youth at Covenant House2 are from average and upper-income households. For them, the street appeared a safer option than staying at home.
These youth are some of the most vulnerable and some of the most resilient. With the right opportunities, they can build a better future.
