To view audience feedback from the recent Youth Community Mapping Program presentations look in the Voices folder (left hand corner) under Community Presentations.

H.A.L.T. stands for Homeless Alliance through Leadership & Teamwork.  This name was created by Marina, a member of the Leadership Team.  It was selected by her teammates as as appropriate description of our work. 

H.A.L.T. because we want to put a halt on youth poverty and homelessness in our communities.
We believe that leadership and teamwork are important to accomplishing our goals.

The Youth Community Mapping Program involves three Mapping Teams and a Leadership Team made-up of York Region youth.  The Community Resource & Learning Room and Street Kids International are the organizations coordinating this Program.

We invite you to explore H.A.L.T. to find-out about our work and contribute your voice.

This brief windows media file will introduce you to some of our 46 Mapping Team members. The slide show was used in as an opening introduction of our Youth Community Mapping Program  presentations.

The more education you have, the less likely you are to be poor. The poorer you are, the harder it is to get an education. Another article by Chris Traber on poverty in York Region Era Banner.

This article focuses on students struggling in school programs. There are some current stats included and some reflections by Scott Milne a YRDSB researcher. I am glad to hear the school board is concentrating resources on this growing problem. Pulling together the disparate silo initiatives (non profits are constantly under resourced and struggle with year to year short term funding) is no small task. Perhaps the School Board will be the catalyst to make a coordinated or collaborate approach succeed. Time will tell.

This CBC site is about what is happening in our cities and rural areas. It is also about the World Urban Festival held in Vancouver from June 19 - 23rd. It has an international and local scope with plenty of interactive elements and fact sheets on issues of poverty, health and homelessness.

The change is upon us

For the first time in human history more people live in the world's cities than in the country. Every hour of each day the world-wide number of urban dwellers grows by 6000. And rural people leaving their villages, small towns and country homes for the city feed the growth. Some are better off. Many more are forced into poverty worse than they ever imagined.

To mark this moment in human development the United Nations is gathering together thousands of people from the world's cities to look for ways to deal with this new reality and give people a chance at a better life. It's called the World Urban Forum (WUF) and it's happening this June in Vancouver.

Our presentation today was special. The Community Resource & Learning Room, Street Kids International, the Homelessness Alliance of York Region and the School of Nursing at York University organized the first community wide dialogue on youth poverty and homelessness in the past five years.

The workshop's purpose was to review the work accomplished in the past, the current work of of our respective organizations and to establish a means for continued dialogue on issues of poverty and homelessness in York Region.

Our Youth Community Mapping Team was well represented by Gabriella, Dipin, Zach along with Rabina and Jasmine our OISE student interns.

The question we asked audience members (approximately 60) to comment on in our live blog segment of our presentation was:

This brief windows media file will introduce you to some of our 46 Mapping Team members. The slide show was used in as an opening introduction of our Youth Community Mapping Program  presentations.

Here is Elif & Zach with their Award Certificates.

We presented a shortened version of our Youth Community Mapping Program to the COMPASS Group in Richmond Hill. Their full name is Community Partners with Schools. Last week, we presented an overview of our Program to the Maple chapter of this collaboration (network).

COMPASS is a school and community based initiative, formed to address the mental health needs of children, youth and their families.  This collaboration effort grew from an Ontario Health Study that found that 18% of children and youth aged 0 - 18 years have mental health problems that require support. (Offord 1989). This equates to about 1 in 5 youth or 39,000 children & youth in York Region. 

Zach was the only young person available for the presentation team, however we were able to recruit the COMPASS Coordinator and several members of the audience to assist in our presentation.

I'm tired of hearing how "wealthy" York Region is, when it doesn't match the reality that so many people are living. We need resources here!

It helped me recognize that young people who are successful academically in school may not be successful in other areas of their life and may need support.
The visual demonstration of homelessness and poverty (hiding behind curtain) being hidden from everyone was a powerful message.

I am more aware of the variety of different layers of stakeholders in our communities. We need to focus in at the 'at risk' and disenfranchised youth.

I have greater appreciation for the challenges facing youth in York Region. I will listen more to our youth!

I will be more of an advocate for youth and put them first when thinking of community's needs. I also see the need for preventative practises at the elementary level.

I have greater awareness of hidden homelessness as a serious problem facing youth & their families in York Region.

I learned the importance of being sensitive to poverty while providing recreation programs.

It is possible to make a difference when we accept certain truths and put our hearts and minds to it.

Policy "specialists" need to research the real statistics & stories. The decision makers need to make a commitment.

More awareness of the roadblocks facing youth today in accessing community support services. (i.e. education, transportation, money)

It is imperative to engage those who are most deeply impacted.

How ironic it is that when you count, define, get a real handle on the problem, and then this results in people ignoring the problem.

Youth reaching youth; Youth researching and reaching out is really innovative and an effective way to connect with other youth. It is capacity building in many ways.

It helped me think about these issues in terms of prevention in work with families of pre-schoolers and what are some of the long term implications for kids with special needs.

To not let pressure to turn a blind eye to the problem impact on what I know to be the truth.

I could identify with the soccer dialogue as it is a "real" situation for several youth and families I work with.

We work with youth on a daily basis and it's important for me to see that you (the Youth Community Mapping Program) do the same.

The Markham Mayor's Youth Task Force is one of our key supporters. We were fortunate to have several members of MMYTF on our Markham Mapping Team. For our last presentation of the Youth Community Mapping Program we had: Dipen, Tina, Hoikei, Neda, Corissa, Mayam, Vino, Vijay, Qinrun and Farhana as our key presenters.

Here is the question we asked in our live blog segment of the presentation.

On our last day of presentations we came back to Huron Heights Secondary School and presented to Mr. Telfer's History class. Our key youth presenters were Valerie and Zach. This is our live blog question that we asked the audience to respond to.

On May 19th we presented to the staff of the Community Services and Housing division of York Region.  Presenters at York Region's Main Administrative Building included Valarie, Zack, Elif and Meghan.

We asked, "What impacted you from our presentation that you can take away and apply to your work?"

Here is what we heard:

-You gave me a better understanding of who homeless youth are.  Is it difficult to find a trustee if you are under 18 and need to apply for social assistance?

-The session has been interesting.  A lot of the information is not new but the way it was presented makes it come alive.  I think getting more of a youth perspective is important

-As a worker, meeting homeless teens, this is a refresher to put myself in the other person's shoes

-I will devote more time to offer counselling services to youth.  P.S. Your presentation rocks

-We could get the information out to students about youth shelters and resources in a better way

-There are some great idea for future research involving youth.  For example, pod casting as a way to communicate creative ideas

-The presentation very insightful

-Good to see and hear youth insight on homeless through their eyes and experiences.  Drives home the importance of some of the work we are doing

-There was an "aha" moment when one of the skits pointed out that all young people are at inherit risk and we can have a part in helping them succeed

-Great resources for youth.  Good reminder of the different faces of homelessness and how it impacts the community.  Everyone should do their part in the community.  Open dialogue

 

On May 17th we presented to the Aurora Mayor's Youth Task Force.  The presenters on this night included Zack, Meghan, Maryam, Shelly and Gabriella.

We asked the following question, "What can you do to address local youth poverty and homelessness." 

We heard the following views:

-Get school councils involved

-I can help fundraise to open more shelters

-I can volunteer in my community.  I can broaden my definition of homeless youth.  I can keep an inclusive mind

-Do some research.  Get involved.  Reach out to those involved with the issues

-More seminars.  More special activities where people of various backgrounds are brought together to learn about each other

-Raise awareness about these issues through various forms of media

-More awareness with Senior Managers and local politicians.  Conduct focus groups and recommend local services to be provided

-I can use my own personal experiences and courageousness to uplift those I know in difficult situation.  A spoken word is much more commendable than a word not spoken

 

On Thursday May 18^th, Gaby, Nick and Valerie represented the Youth Community Mapping Program when we visited Sutton District High School.  We spoke with Ms. Ellis’s Grade 12 World Issues students.  The question we ended with was, “Where do you see poverty and homelessness in York Region?”

 

This is what we heard:

 

-I have seen poverty on my street

 

-In this school…In this town…more obvious in Toronto

 

-I have never seen a homeless person in York Region that I know of

 

-I have seen homelessness in Sutton

 

-To be honest, I never really thought about it before.  I’ve seen people staying in the motel down the road and it isn’t nice

 

-Tim Hortons lady x 2

 

-I’ve not really seen these issues in York Region but certainly in other areas like Toronto X 4

 

-I have seen homeless in Sutton.  Where I work I have dealt with entire families having no place to go.  Also in our high school kids couch surf all the time, few people realize that they have no place to go

 

-I’ve never seen homelessness in York Region because I’ve only been here for a year.  In terms of poverty, I’ve seen very little maybe just a few 1 bedroom houses.  I used to live in Toronto for a long time and I saw tons of poverty

 

-I’ve seen poverty on my street as we have a home and we call them ‘walkers’ and some leave the home.  When they leave, the community has to step in and be their voice

 

-I have never seen homelessness in Sutton but I have seen poverty within our community

 

-Friends sleeping from house to house each night

 

-Town of Georgina

 

-I have had three close friends, all living in the community, get kicked out of their house and have no place to go

 

-There has been homelessness here in Sutton.  When teens are kicked out of their house, there is often no place to go.  They have to either live with their friends or perhaps in a car.  Also there is a shelter that was recently opened that has offered support to teens

 

-I have not seen any in York Region

On Wednesday May 17^th we spent the whole day at Middlefield C.I. in Markham.

 

Thank you to Middlefield teacher Jamie Glass for organizing this opportunity!

 

In period 1 we presented to Mr. Brijmongal’s Civics and History Grade 10 students.

 

We asked, “What fact, story or skit stood out the most for you?”

 

These are the responses we received from students:

 

-The skit that stood out to me the most was the one involving the young girl and her problem with not being able to afford soccer shoes

 

-The one with the Bristol boards by Newmarket was very effective.  It was interesting/different

 

-The skit by the Markham people was the best

 

-The presentation about the 3 types of situations

 

-York Region is a place where homelessness does take place and that we need to help those in need

 

-The adult-youth relation skit was the one that stood out for me

 

-I found that the skit by the Markham group stood out the most.  It was clear and had good understanding of the topic

 

-I liked the story about the youth who got kicked out of the house when her mom and dad were getting divorced.  I have never heard of these things happening

 

-The one where the 3 different people were put into 3 categories

 

-I think the skit stood out the most because it applies to most people in the world.  This is true for most people

 

-In my perspective, the stories of people that were told during this presentation stood out the most because it really touched my heart and it’s very sad to know that there are people out there who actually need help

 

-The skit that was done by the Newmarket team, called adult-youth relations, stood out to me the most because I think it captures the feelings of young people very well

 

-The skit done by the Newmarket, adult youth relations stood out the most because it showed different people with different experiences.  Also it showed how people can become homeless.  It gave me an understanding of “doing ok”, “at-risk” and “homeless”

-In my perspective, I believe that the soccer skit stood out the most because girls usually talk and gossip about other girls, which can really impact a person.  Since it is one of the most common issues today, I believe it stands out

 

-The one with the Prime Minister being interviewed

 

-I like the youth / adults skit the most.  I can really see myself as the one that is doing ok.  Many of my friends think I’m doing good but really I’m not

 

-The skit about the mother and two children having to go to a shelter because they were kicked out of the house

 

-The part I liked the most was the health poem because it showed many different perspectives

 

-That poem because it was interesting that those people had such different experiences about each statement

 

-Newmarket skit because it shows how adults view youth

 

-The thing that stood out most is the poem

 

-I think that people judge you before they get to know you

 

-The skit about the Markham recreation and the cleats.  How the girl couldn’t afford cleats etc.

 

-I liked the poem about health because it was interesting

 

-The skit on the at-risk students and identifications of the barriers (money, recreation, social issues and transportation)

 

-The part I liked the best was the news report because many opinions on homelessness were stated

 

-The one from the Markham group because I’ve seen things happening like that at school

 

-Youth buy sports equipment from 2^nd hand stores in order to play recreational sports because they can’t afford new equipment

 

-The Prime Minister part cared about the homeless

 

-The story that stood out the most was the soccer story.  I know a lot of people to go through that type of problem.  I’m not going to lie even I have gone through that.  Some people don’t have money and it’s not their fault.

 

-The skit involving soccer and the girls

 

-The poem and the soccer skit

 

-The story of the wife that got divorced and was kicked out with her kids

 

-I really enjoyed the first skit because it showed the separated experiences of people

 

-I think that the skit about the homeless, at risk, doing ok, stood out the most because it shows what others feel and that they feel

 

-The story that stood out to me was the Newmarket story

 

-My favorite part was when everyone in the class reads the cue cards

 

-The skit which talked about 3 different types of people and where they put the Bristol boards on the youth

 

In period 2,the Grade 10 History class and the Grade 11 Law class, we asked, “Where have you seen homelessness in York Region?”

 

We received the following responses:

 

-I can’t remember a time when I have seen visible poverty in York Region

 

-I have never seen poverty in York Region x 16

 

-I haven’t seen poverty in York Region, only in Toronto x 4

 

-I haven’t seen poverty in York Region because people seem to hide it by staying at other people’s places

 

-I have not seen examples of homelessness in York Region.  This is likely because of the views of society and the stereotypes surrounding homelessness make it difficult for people to admit they are homeless.

 

-I haven’t seen poverty in York Region.  I believe that poverty is a concerning issue world-wide and should be taken care of

 

-I believe there could be poverty that occurs in York Region however York Region is depicted as a “high class” region.  To be honest, I personally have not seen it.  But, I have witnessed people leave their home due to problems and live with their cousins.  Poverty and homelessness I believe is something that will never stop

 

-I have seen poverty in Scarborough x 2

-Friends

 

-Subway, malls and schools

 

-Friends kicked out from home x 2

 

-When students can’t afford class trips and other events

 

-I have a friend whose parents don’t live in Canada but a different county.  She has been living with her aunt for a few years.  I feel sometimes when she talks to me she misses her parents and somehow is lonely

 

-I used to know someone whose parents were divorced and had to help their mom at work

 

-Poverty is basically a day to day issue.  I know many people who are living below the average income level.  Even though they do live in homes they are in great debts and struggle to eat the next meal.  They are unable to provide themselves with all the necessities they need.  I think that this is an increasing problem in York Region because the standard of living has greatly increased.  The price of houses, groceries etc. have increased to such an extent it becomes almost impossible for an average family to buy what they need.  Poverty and homelessness are well hidden because people are ashamed to accept reality.

 

-I have seen people that are at risk of becoming homeless and are living pay check to pay check and are on welfare

 

-Poverty is everywhere.  There are also many stereotypes about homeless people and people who are in poverty

 

-My friend gets kicked out of his house a lot

 

-I see it in local parks!!

 

-When I’m outside I sometimes see homeless looking people picking up stuff and looking in trash cans

 

-Someone I know lives on the streets of Markham ever since 5^th grade when his parents left him and went to Nigeria.  His sister went off with her boyfriend.  My friend hasn’t had enough money to support himself

 

-I’ve seen people at the bus asking for change

 

-I’ve seen homeless people on the streets in front of banks, picking up butts on the floor and smoking it

 

-An old guy has a bike, every morning he goes to Denison Park and picks up beer bottles, so he can earn some money

 

-These families bring empty boxes everyday to Sikh temples and eat the food also store the food in boxes.  They are not Sikh

 

-Poverty can be seen a lot on the public transport.  Second hand, newspapers explain lots of poverty

 

In period 4 we presented to students from Ms. Hoseboom’s class.  The question we posed was, “What do you feel motivated to do or what can be done to put an end to youth homelessness and poverty?”

 

These were the answers collected:

 

-Give food

 

-We can donate money and our government can make more shelters for students

 

-Donate money and also give shelter

 

-We can help people to get jobs

 

-We can donate food or money.  We can share our books

 

-I think we can collect money to support the homeless.  I will spread the word about this problem

 

-We can organize a fundraising event

 

-We can do some presentations.  We can give respect to this presentation to help the people

 

-We need to help people get a house they can afford

 

-We can make a volunteer group to help the youth

 

-We can start an organization to fundraise food to food banks

 

-We can recommend people to find a job

 

-Free recreational activities needed!!

 

-We can sell pins to raise awareness and funds

 

-I feel motivated to join a program that will help promote the illumination of homelessness and poverty within York Region.  Directly meetings the needs and combating the issues that cause homelessness

 

In period 5, we worked with Mr. Brijmongal’s class of Grade 11 Law students.  The quested we ended with was, “What do you feel motivated to do or what can be done to put an end to youth poverty and homelessness?”

 

These were the responses we received:

 

-I think we can raise funds

 

-I feel homelessness is a very serious issue, however it’s not visible.  Unfortunately, these presentations are the first I’ve seen that is actually doing something to improve the situation.  I believe that more people should be hired and should be sent to inform the community and to try to get them to help

 

-After hearing the presentation, I feel that more resources are needed in a more widespread sense in order for anything to be accomplished

 

-Help with constructions of homes.  Help at the shelters.

 

-I have not seen poverty anywhere in York Region.  Ask the government to lend money to York Region so that poverty can be stopped right a way

 

-I feel the need to volunteer and donate more than I already do

 

-More charity events

 

-Give money

 

-Create shelter and free temp. jobs.  Also donate some money to get people back up the ladder

 

-Personally I think homelessness is a very sensitive subject, and the best solution is active community involvement and then more open usage of shelters will begin

 

-I feel motivated to join programs that are dedicated to end youth poverty and homelessness.  A lot of things could be done to end this, however the emotional side of it is very important.  I feel that if you can talk to the person in pain and let them share their feelings you can make them feel better about 50%.  Eliminating the problem is recognition, but if we become more open minded and accepting of the people we feel are facing problems we might be able to end this

 

-Create awareness.  Show respect

 

-After hearing the presentation today, I feel that there is so much that needs to be done in York Region.  More people should be aware of these growing problems and do what they can to further have people within the community understand.  This can be done through fundraisers and public presentations

 

-I feel that youth poverty could be stopped or controlled by the creation of more shelter.  I feel motivated to donate to good causes that will provide people with more food and a place to live.  I feel that poverty and homelessness can be ended if we as a community work together to provide people with the basic necessities needed to live

 

-Awareness is a big solution or the biggest step for solving the issue of homelessness.  I believe our community can ask for more funding for recreational activities by asking the municipal government to give more money for the youth of York Region

 

-It is important to first make a wide range of members in the community aware of the issues.  A problem cannot be solved without it being first identified and accepted

 

-Make more shelters and try funding for some activities or special education

 

-Establish more shelters.  Have more jobs available for youth

 

-Create awareness.  More youth programs needed.  Increase minimum wage.  Youth employment now

 

-There could be better jobs available to inexperienced homeless youth who feel that they have no chance of getting a job and acquiring income

 

-I think that we should encourage the homeless that they can and will be better in the future

 

-To put an end to youth poverty and homelessness there could be more interaction for youth in school.  By this I mean teachers instilling more of a feeling of equality to all the students so that inside and outside of the class room youth will be more comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings

 

-By having more organizations like this on homelessness awareness

 

-We should get more of the youth involved in activities in the community.  This way they would be filled with works to do

 

-More social workers needed.  More foundations

 

-I feel homelessness is not always something that’s YOUR fault.  We should not judge others unnecessarily based on their home status.  Many factors contribute to homelessness and the people suffering from it don’t need more trouble then they have already

-Awareness.  Shelters and more jobs needed.

 

-Conduct more creative ways to prevent poverty

 

-There must be stronger awareness brought to the issues at hand in an attempt to grasp a greater audience of supporters on a much larger scale.  I feel motivated to persuade more people by informing them of the injustices which are taking place and petitioning for change

 

-Make more homes

 

-I feel to get more people involved

 

-What motivated me was that I could make a change to this ongoing issue.  It just takes that one step that we have to take ourselves.  Together we can make a difference

 

-Provide jobs that are suitable for everyone

 

-To put an end to homelessness government can financially help youth

 

-We should have more awareness on this topic.  We should have more advertisements and commercials to get people aware about things happening around them instead of commercials to get people aware of the latest styles and products.  Money should be put to better use

 

-Have more presentations like these in schools to raise awareness.  This can motivate other students to want to participate

 

-We should build an apartment for homeless youth where they pay a min. rent

 

-We as a community should work more towards being less negative to people

 

-Make sure students have jobs

 

-Hire more students

 

-You have to promote awareness and get more people involved

 

-Donate money

 

-I believe we should take the time to understand the people better.  This way people would feel that someone cares about them and that they are not alone.  We should also bring more awareness to people about this issue and have fundraisers to help with the cause

 

-More shelters

The mapping researchers for the Unionville High School presentation were Hoikei, Corissa, Mansi and Tina from our Markham Mapping team and Farhana and Vivian from our Leadership Team.

Mr. Lee - Period Three

"What fact, story or skit stood out the most in our presentation?"

We recieved the following responses:

    I think the one about recreation stood out because it is an issue that our age group could relate to.

    I didn't’t know that in Newmarket there are many people who are homeless. This showed me to always respect everyone, it doesn't’t matter what place you’re from.

 I have more awareness of homelessness, the places where they are living. I liked the HALT News Report.

 I think we should find the homeless a unique place to live. I learned more about homelessness.

 The “My Story’s” were the most effective story that really stood out.

   Good job of spreading awareness of homelessness (3 similar post)

  I think the fact that homeless are hard to identify unless if you are their really close friend. Therefore, I think the least we can do is to always treat everyone equally so we don’t make them feel bad and make their life even worse.

The strong fact that stood out in the presentation was that there are actually a lot of homeless teens in York Region. (1 similar post)

Give a bear a fish and it will eat for a day, teach a bear to fish and it will eat forever.

  I didn't’t realize that there was a lot of people that run away.

I think that homelessness should be more focused in the community.

 I liked the signs that were hung on the youths neck and what was said.

The story that stood out for me in the presentation was how there are a lot of teens applying for higher end jobs

 I liked the HALT news report. (3 similar post)

 I didn't’t realize people that I know of, go through a lot of suffering.

The story about when the boy’s family got kicked out of his own house by his father. He should be helped.

The 2 stories, especially the one where the girl doesn’t get along with her dad and she had a full time job. I can relate to that.

  I  wasn't aware that there were homeless shelters in York Region.

   The skit with the cards really stood out because it was unique and visual.

While watching you could really tell what they were feeling. It helped me understand that people may look a way on the outside but them may be feeling a different way on the inside.

    I liked the Richmond Hill skit where there were 3 voices talking about different things. (1 similar post)

    The skit where the actors placed cards on themselves was unique because it presented the way on how people think of you affects the way you think of yourself.

      I enjoyed the Newmarket Skit. It helped me realize the stereotypes of teens.

   The live blog stood out because of the different interaction between many people.

  The huge number of homeless youth invisible in York Region.

The Richmond Hill skit was very good. I liked the three voices and how they stated things together and individually.

 Responses:

Period 4:                                                                                            Mrs. Schiffer

Our blog question for this class was:

What can be done to address the issues discussed today?

   Make schools and government pay for recreation and extra curricular activities.

   More media attention would help to bring awareness especially to the younger community.

  In order to solve problems of homeless youth, I think it is important that we can raise more awareness among teenagers so they can help their friends with problems. (1 similar post)

    More family services in schools, clothing exchanges, volunteer clinics in education.

      Increase awareness of issues and help teens understand issues and the seriousness of this for our community.

   Create more awareness toward these issues; help teens relate on a personal level toward these issues; have more speakers talk about their personal experiences.

    Increase awareness, establish charities; make presentations; have more involved with personal stories; have speakers who have been through homelessness.

 Increase awareness using TV ads, web sites and public presentations. (5 similar posts)

This program is an excellent step in the right direction but even with this presentation we represent a small sector of the youth community. Surveys and research has been conducted and yet many people in this school for example, are being told the findings of research as opposed to being involved. It may seem like a huge undertaking, but programs like this and surveys need to be open to a larger proportion.

Talk about it, share about it, do something about it.Build the homeless homes and give them money.

 Be open minded and raise awareness; talk with youth facing these issues

 A lot of these issues are problematic because of ignorance. I you raise awareness and such issues become normal and accepted people wouldn’t be ashamed to ask for help. (1 similar post)

Invest in helping the homeless and produce decent resumes to get jobs and make an income.

Provide more of this kind of presentation to different kinds of people in society.

Make houses for the homeless then there will be no homeless.

Spread the awareness by telling friends, family or anyone else.

Gabriella was our key youth presenter for our presentation to Ms. Fizzell’s H.A.L.E. Program at Huron Heights Secondary School. HALE students work in the community earning school credits and come back for classes one day of the week.

Ms. Fizzel - Period One

"What fact, story or skit stood out to you the most from our presentation?"

We received the following responses:

 

 

 I think the skit made up by the Newmarket Team stood out the most

 When Jasmine (youth storey teller) told the story about herself because it’s a lot like mine.

I like the one I did with Lee – the skit where we acted out storey about youth and recreation/homelessness. (1 similar post)

The fact that homelessness is “invisible” isn’t true, it’s everywhere, we know, just don’t care

 Most people choose to be homeless, I thought until today.

I didn’t see the whole presentation so I just don’t know. Manny of the stories presented sounded very similar to the stories I hear everyday at my work, some of my co-workers live in group homes and have been homeless.

That homelessness exists in Newmarket. (1 similar post)

The inter-active part was fascinating.

The Blog (1 similar post)

 The skit depicting the different health issues.

The fact that you all pointed out was that we need to realize that there is homelessness in York Region. In fact I know a few people that are homeless.

The diversity of experiences in York Region.

The health poem stood out of all the presentations.

The Newmarket skit stood out because it applies to everyone, not just homeless or at risk people. (1 similar post)

The definition of homelessness can change from person to person and is not a good description of the things those people miss out on or suffer through.

What fact, story or skit stood out the most to you from our presentation?

 

We recieved the following responses:

 

The presentation with the flash cards stood out the most to me. It had a dramatic impact on me.

The fact that there are actually homeless people in York Region and that it is more difficult for people in a “well off” area to cope with this problem because of such high expectations e.g. paying for prom, etc.         

The story that stood out the most was when they were reading the stories of what happened to those youths when they were younger.

“Telling the Story” stood out when the two girls told us the stories about people from their group.

Just hearing about the presence of poverty in York Region.

The skit that showed the different way of doing research by youth instead of experts.

The Prime Minister skit stood out the most to me.

Ms. McLean - Period One

"Where have you seen poverty in York Region?
What should be done?"

We recieved the following responses:

  Poverty is seen within the classroom. Many students attending  Huron Heights S.S. are from group homes and feel alone due to a lack of listening. If we could only to start to listen.    

 My friend got kicked out of his house and now he’s living and relying on his best friend. There should be a program open for kids to help them with costs and shelter.

I have seen poverty at the 404 Plaza. There were two homeless men and I think they should move to a shelter.

 I haven’t seen poverty here in Newmarket, but I’ve seen poverty near the Toronto areas. I think we should have more volunteers running shelters or more food banks and the like. 

 I have seen a couple of people in Newmarket who look like they need some food and a place to stay. I think some one should step in an get them help and make sure they are OK. 

  I see poverty and homelessness in Toronto or larger cities. There should be more awareness and more places for people to go without having to be scared.

 I was around the mall with a friend and we saw a woman asking people around desperately for money to buy food. We should provide more resources or places to stay for these people.

I have seen poverty in York Region in and around Sutton and in areas of country where there is pollution and garbage. Also in the outskirts of York Region. 

The different shelters in Newmarket and surrounding areas. I feel people not having the ability to do things they want to be apart of, like after school activities because they have no way of getter there.

The poverty I have seen is Newmarket is outside Dominion Store at the 404 Plaza off Davis Drive, where people are asking for change/handouts. I think that they should be given jobs and a chance to work and contribute to society.

I see poverty in downtown Toronto and in close friends. We can help find them a place to stay or offer them support.

I’ve seen poverty at my school. Students wearing the same clothes weeks on end. Saying they sure are hungry, staying after school to get extra help because they don’t want to go home! Poverty is at our local mall, the 404 town centre. Poverty is everywhere and we all need to put our differences aside and help each other.

I have a buddy that kicked out of his home and now is in a group home and I know of teenagers getting kicked out of their houses for a night or two. The government should spend more money on poverty issues and educate Canada so one dimension of hell disappears on earth.

I saw it just on Saturday. A friend was staying at a friends house because he doesn’t want to be at home.

Youth at risk who are leaving the school system. Young adults begging for money outside of stores and people holding up signs saying “will work for food."

I have seen poverty in York Region in the Park called Fairy Lake. As the sun goes down, about a dozen people gather to sleep there. I think shelters should be found for them.

I see poverty in the bad areas of Newmarket and in the shelters. People should become more aware of homelessness and together we should all work together to solve the problem and make homelessness a thing of the past.

I personally have seen poverty evident all over York Region. i.e. schools, streets, neighbourhoods. I think we just need to love our people who are in need of love (we all need love).

There is a local shelter for guys near this area. It takes in homeless teens. I think they should create more homes and shelters that are clean and welcoming and give resources to those who are living there.

Poverty isn’t something I see a lot, however I do know that it can anywhere or everywhere. I think that people should be informed and actually get involved and really do something about it.

I have seen a lot of poverty around Toronto. More homeless shelters should be available.

Poverty exists in every aspect of our community, unfortunately for homeless in critical need they are only visible when needing help. This occurs in Newmarket places such as 404 Plaza and Upper Canada Mall.

Call York Region Street Outreach 1-866-553-4053

I personally haven’t seen a lot of homelessness or poverty in my community but I am aware that it is present, just well hidden. I think that maybe help should more well know about. 

 I’ve seen this one guy sitting out side of Max milk on Main Street and Davis Drive. You can get him a job.

Mrs. Wallace  - Period Two    

"What can you do to put an end to youth poverty and homelessness?"

We recieved the following responses:

Create more job opportunities and raise minimum wage.

Use Internet Technology to reach youth!

Raise awareness by starting a club at school. Arrange field trips downtown to check out how much poverty there is and maybe in the shelters.

Support friends and family going through tough situations in any way they need.

Find out who is affected and find out why; Raise money fand awareness to better inform population; Organize fundraisers across the Region to raise money; Create new more efficient, youth orientated shelters.

Raise awareness to gain acceptance; Create opportunities and if given the opportunity hire youth i.e. paint.

Support a Canadian Socialist Agenda which places emphasis on a fight against poverty.

 In order to put a halt to youth poverty, one has to create hospitable environments which will provide short term care & long term rehabilitation.

 We can raise awareness so that it is no longer a hidden problem and we can create more opportunities for homeless youth to make money and get an education and participation in recreational activities at the same time.

Create support programs at schools and Community Centres.

Raise money for the homeless and help out in the local shelters.

Be aware of it and be open to talk to classmates and peers about any issues relating to poverty they might experience.]-->

Sell candy and shish-kabobs as a fundraiser.

Raise awareness and donations (7 posts)

Mrs Burnt - Period Three

"What can you do to put an end to youth poverty and homelessness?"

We recieved the following responses:

Help increase community awareness on youth poverty; be aware of those who are in need; contribute in a respectful manner.

Be a better person; look out for one another; help the needy and help increase community awareness.

By researching further into this topic and look for solutions that could improve our community to lessen youth poverty and homelessness.

Become a more active member in my community by: organizing fundraisers; volunteer; raise awareness by informing my peers about the severity of this issue; donate clothes, equipment, money to various organizations.

Become more involved in fundraising and visit some of the kids in povery and be a listener to them (encourage & help).

Raise awareness, talk to adults, counselors, teachers, and parents. Get involved in fundraising and learn more about poverty and homelessness.

You can add awareness to the issue so that people will realize how serious it is and be encouraged to help. I can form organizations to collect used clothing or anything that can help people who need it.

I can donate to local homeless shelters, I can volunteer, I can help a friend or classmate in need if I know they are homeless or need help.

 I can inform myself of this issue to the point of sharing it with friends and spreading the word to those who need it the most, but don’t know who it go to.

By participating in the many groups out there and helping friends that have problems.

Inform others and create clubs at school and involve self in related community activities.

Have mentorship programs for underprivileged kids/youth; Organize fundraising events for the homeless youth; Provide much more support to them by including their views and perspectives.

Help make it an everyday topic by discussing with friends and family.

Continue working in the Out of the Cold Program.

Donate clothing and articles to food banks and shelters; volunteer and raise awareness of the issue. (9 similar posts)

Mrs Burnt - Period Four

"What can you do to put an end to youth poverty and homelessness?"

We recieved the following responses:

Raise the issue and make sure your voice is heard; Emphasize the Raise awareness and organize groups in school to help those in need.      

 Youth poverty can be decreased by giving needy people more chances to work and not judge them. Also, it could be decreased by giving other youth around these children less negative feelings. Poverty cannot be eliminated, but the negative feelings can be reduced.

Create more shelters; raise money to fight youth poverty; host different activities to raise money.

Give anything we don’t need to shelters; Find married couples who are looking for children or kids and organize more fundraisers.

I can help any of the friends I have who are at risk of poverty and homelessness. I can also join/volunteer at any of the shelters and organizations.

Have more presentations in schools so students can become more aware and could possibly donate money/material goods.

Talk to friends and actually get to know them personally. If there are ways to help, offer it and donate money to organizations.

Create a petition to end homelessness and donate to food banks and donate clothes.

Organize a concert and use the money to address youth homelessness.

Easier access to Centers that can help people that are at risk of homelessness.

I can talk to a few close friends and make a little group and help anyone who feels like they need help and feel alone.

Eliminate extreme wealth

Donate money to organizations that help youth

Our presentation today was at Milliken Mills Secondary School. The presenters from the Youth Community Mapping Program included: Dipen, Sana, Elham, Neda, Devin and Mansi.

Mr. Orlowsky's Class - Period One

We asked the students to respond to the following question.

"What fact, story or skit stood out to you most in our presentation?"

We recieved the following responses:

- The fact that youth poverty is practically invisible in our community

- I liked how they hanged tags around their necks

- The skit that stood out the most for me was, the one where the young girl bought soccer equipment from a second hand store & how one of her friends told everyone & they made fun of her. (1 similar post)

- The fact that stood out the most in the presentation was the fact that there are hundreds of homeless children/youth that are living in York Region today.

- I liked the Newmarket skit where they showed how people are seen in one way but feel another.

- The Newmarket skit (the one with the signs) because it showed how people put on labels and the signs they put on themselves.

- The fact that a lot of people are homeless and how many people do not know the facts and issues about this, is surprising. (1 similar post)

- The last skit involving the HALT newscast stood out to me a lot. It surprised me that some random young person on the street would know more than a Canadian U.N. official. It kind of makes me wonder how they got their job.

- The homeless story about the female shelter

- The skit with the adult putting signs on the youth and the youth putting signs on themselves. It is a good skit because it shows how us youth don't really have a say on how adults view us. (1 similar post)

- The skit that stood out to me was the one in which the adult passed a sign on the child symbolizing what an adult thinks about the child and then a kid puts a sign on themselves to show what they actually feel. I enjoyed this because I thought it was very creative. (1 similar post)

- The skit which had the cue cards, stood out to me the most because it showed that a person is not what they look like and that everyone has their own story.    (1 similar post)

- That poverty and homelessness exists in a developed country such as Canada.

- The skit where the young people put signs on their neck was most effective because it showed and understand the inner problems a youth may have.

- The fact that there is a fair amount of homelessness in York Region and that the shelters are most unknown to the community itself. (1 similar post)

- The opening where the presenters where reading the large cue cards (Goals, agenda) got to me. Hearing how everyone had different problems to deal with & how they are actually trying to make a difference.

- I find it interesting that what the United Nations considers to be a problem, our country turns a blind eye too. (1 similar post)

- The skit with the signs because it showed how people may look the same but they are different people with different problems. (2 similar post)

- What stood out for me was the different kinds of stories that was being heard.

- I think the skit where the 3 students had to talk together (spoken word composition), then separately to discuss their feelings stood out the most.

- There are lots of people in the world that are homeless and that parents throw their kids out of the house.

Mrs. Patrick's Class - Period Two

 "What fact, story or skit stood out to you most in our presentation?"

We recieved the following responses:

- I liked the sports skit where the girl was verbally abused because she did not have good sports equipment and the adult youth relations.

- The first skit about soccer because I experience this in real life. We have a lot of talent but no support. The cost should be covered for players playing at a competitive level.

- The fact that we have homeless people in out community.

- I liked the sports skit where the girl could not afford good soccer cleats. I play a lot of sports and that made me think "what would I do without sports?" I will start a fundraiser to help kids play sports by giving them equipment.

- The skit where the girl was being called names because she had no money to buy shoes stood out most to me.
- The play was very touching. It made me realize that everyone has problems and things they have to deal with. It made me see different peoples worlds.

- I realize that I should contribute to donations.

- The fact that there are homeless people in Markham without us realizing it.

- Although they provided us with many facts, many of these facts and info I already knew. Nothing really stood out.

- The fact that you can't tell if someone is homeless and even if you are or aren't we still go through problems.

- When there were 3 people standing up in the front, and wearing the bristol boards that had messages on them.

- The play that stood out the most to me was the adult and youth relations showing. The relation between youth and their parents.

- The signs around the peoples neck showed that each individual had a different thought and opinion. (Adult Youth Relations).

- The News report/the adults-youth relation skit stands out.

- I realize that I should be helping homeless people.

- I never knew there was so many homeless people/kids in York Region. I think I should donate stuff for them.

- The personal stories because it was realistic and interesting because you don't really hear about stories like that. Also, they can relate to people with similar situations and it is more effective since it is real and not made up.

- The skit which really got my attention, was the Adult-Youth relations skit. It appealed to me in a sense that this is happening right now!

- Personal stories of other members of the youth team. The personal stories stood out the most, or at least interested me the most because they were real stories. And it is not everyday you hear stories about other people's problems that you don't even realize.

- The Markham skit stood out for me the most because they address the issue that can be fixed simply if people become more aware of the fact that it is effecting the youth of today. If the officials realized this they would be able to drop useless money costing equipment and utilize and accept everyone.

- Adult Youth Relations because it shows how people live and what the society thinks. It also gives a perspective of what the kids think and their experiences.

- The skit that had 3 people standing in the front with bristol boards. What stood out to me was that different issues can affect anyone.

- The skit by the Newmarket, the adults-youth relation skit stands out and has made me realize what is happening out there. (1 similiar post)

Mrs. Patrick's Class - Period Four                                                    

 "What fact, story or skit stood out to you most in our presentation?"

We recieved the following responses:

- The first presentation about the boy teasing the girl for not being able to afford new soccer shoes (2 similar post)

- The skit which depicted 3 different people & how their self-image was influenced by the perceptions of the adult person and responsible members of the society was really nice because it was quite close to the real life situations. I may somehow, somewhere relate to them and so may my friends.

- How adults do not treat teens fairly (1 similar post)

- I think the Markham Team presentation impacted me because the issue that was focused on during the presentation is seen mostly everywhere during any time. (1 similar posts)

- Inspiring, interesting, thoughtful - The skit that stood out more was when they presented how social views (adults) affected how we feel of ourselves. It was really cool and true (2 similar post)

- The fact that there are a lot of homeless people in York Region but we don't know about them. And also how people stay at friends houses and sleep on couches before they go on to the streets.

- The presentation showed that our stereotypical views comes in the way of understanding the problem of homeless people.

- The skit that stood out the most was the adults perception of youth.

- I had an excellent experience by watching this performance. When they talked about being judged, it stood out.

- The number of homeless youth - something must be done.

- I learned a lot and was shocked that 50% of homeless people are under 25. (1 similar post)

- How people are afraid to be judged for who the are........

- The biggest impact is how homeless people around the town and are surviving without a lot of fear.

- The fact that the statements/stories read, where from real people in the community. The statistics also stood out for me. (2 similar post)

- I thought there was no homelessness in Markham. (1 similar post)

- The skit about the soccer player who couldn't afford buying her equipment because I used to think that  most of the athletes were so wealthy.

- I was surprised at how many youth were homeless or at risk. I didn't know that there were so many "invisible" and "visible" homeless in York Region.

- The skit with the "Doing OK, At Risk, Homeless" signs. It explains how ever person feels when they are having problems.

We presented to the HOPE Program this morning. HOPE stands for "help overcome psychosis early" and is part of the Canadian Mental Health Association. As poverty and homelessness is a consistent theme with many of the young people served by this Program, they invited us to present to their staff team. Zach and Meghan, from the Newmarket were the key youth presenters.

The HOPE Program staff were asked to respond to the following question.

"What fact, story, or skit stood out to you most in our presentation?"

We recieved the following responses.

- Be more aware of the youth issues in the Region
- Support the youth to speak up in regards to their needs
- It is important to recognize that homeless, at risk and doing ok is a continuum that individuals, depending on circumstance, can move back and forth along and in fact be in different areas at the same time. It's important to continue an ongoing assessment of each individual and their present needs.
- Understanding how my clients are already at risk for homelessness due to significant mental health issues can raise my awareness as to how best to address this with them and to provide planning and assistance in a proactive manner.
- Homelessness is a problem and your are homeless, unlike my prior belief that adults and older people are the homeless.
- Your presentation inspires me to work for advocating on behalf of and with youth
- Be aware of issues youth face
- The subjective issues, concerns, worries that youth deal with are the most important
- Leave assumptions and judgements at the door
- Offer support by being open minded, caring and encouraging youth to speak
- A great venue for youth to become involved in and make a change on significant social issues

Zach, Meghan and Marina led the presentation at the York Region Alliance to End Homelessness meeting. Membership in this group includes: health care providers, social workers; faith community representatives; Regional Government; street outreach staff etc.

The question that we asked this group to comment on for our blog was:
"What can you take from our presentation to implement in your work?"

We recieved the following respones:

- To always remember the individual and their circumstances are unique. Be open minded, non-judgemental and always supportive

- You have all brought an important and critical perspective to this issue! - Thank you. Youth voices will continue to be important. I will continue to explore creative ways for these voices to heard through my work - Jane

- Give youth the power to speak on their issues

- Increased awareness of youth homelessness and willingness of youth to address this issue

- We need to listen to the experts - the youth!

- That service providers don't always know "what's best"

- All youth are at risk

- A better awareness of homelessness and need in York Region

- Neighbourhoodlink is a volunteer agency that could help with transportation, friendly visits, or even possibly provide items like sports equipment by informing the local churches.

- Reinforce intrinsic values of each individual; Rember to listen

- Reiforced the the value of working with youth, in and out of programs

- Youth need to be HEARD; Homelessness is not age discriminate

- Reinforce the need to hold off on judgements

- Try to better understand clients problems and to help solve their problems

- Please, just keep talking. Some of us are listening, the rest of us will come along

- I can assist the youth I work with feel more empowered. By this I mean speaking out, reaching resources and getting their needs met

 

The Youth Community Mapping Program, with representation from Marina, Zach and Meghan presented at the Town of Newmarket Youth Support Task Force monthly meeting.  The audience included service providers, municipal politicians and York Regional Police representatives.

The question that we asked this group to comment on for our blog was:
"What can you take from our presentation to implement in your work?"

-Continue to advocate for youth to be key decision makers

-Presentation made it clear that the gap between theory and reality is wider than I imagined

-Need to ensure more effort is put to root issues

-Recognize that the youth we are trying to serve, should, and do, have valuable input into that issues that concern them, and the solutions.

-Awareness of how serious homelessness in York Region is & not assuming or stereotyping youth, but get to them individually

-I can take away the fact that homelessness does exist and I need to work with that when programming

-Reinforces my commitment to work both within my organization and externally at the municipal and regional level to address homelessness

-Commit to provide a welcome space in recreation with opportunity for all youth to participate, build on their strengths

-Reality of homeless and youth issues made prominent in presentation.  Will share with team at work to see how change - positively can be effected for students

-I will continue to listen and support initiatives that help to reduce homelessness and poverty

-Solutions must include the youth!  Youth are more aware of the complexity and impact of the issues facing them than the adults

-To pursue areas of funding to reduce and eliminate the barriers to recreation for youth

-Help to raise awareness of youth homelessness in York Region.  Consider ways in which to help

-Help inform future policy and funding programs for youth homelessness

-Ensure town decisions address homelessness in our community

-Be proactive 

 

On Monday May 8th, Gabriella, Maryam and Rahi represented the Youth Community Mapping Program by presenting to two classes at Richmond Hill High School.

Students from the first class were asked to respond to the following question:

"What idea, fact, story or skit stood out the most in our presentation?"

We received the following responses:

-Number of homeless youth in York Region

-The personal story that children and their mother had to resort to a shelter after being kicked out by their father

-That homelessness is an invisible problem in York Region and that it has many forms

-Homelessness is invisible in today's society

-I never actually realized that homelessness was that great of an issue within York Region.  I liked the idea of people coming together and trying to put an end to poverty.

-That there are a lot of homeless people in Richmond  Hill, yet we just don't see them

-I never realized that we had many people who are seeking shelter, food, health care etc. since it is invisible in our community

-The skits especially the one 2 volunteers from the class came-up to present

-The fact that stood out most in this presentation was the lack of knowledge from the community

-Many homeless people in Richmond Hill live with a friend, in their car, coffee shops etc.

-So many youth are homeless

-The skit the two people where one is not able to afford new cleats.  In elementary and high schools people do discriminate each other by just looking at them.

-I never knew there were so many poor people close to me...now I do

-8% of York Region lives under the poverty line

-There are many homeless people in York Region but they are hidden

-The idea that there are homeless present in the "wealthy" York Region and even more so the fact that it is invisible and that many people choice to ignore the situation as a whole

-The skit with the board caught my attention.  The fact that it is normal for most teens in the community to be at risk was actually kind of scary to think about.

-Many homeless people are under 25

-The soccer skit stood out for me because these could be people just like me, people in my high school

-The government needs to provide more fund to those in need

 

Students from the second class were asked to respond to the following question:

"What can be done to put an end to youth poverty and homelessness?"

We received the following responses:

-There should be more presentations to make people aware of the issues

-More education

-Take a period of time off from your busy life to donate to the food bank and volunteer

-More awareness

-Increase housing

-Put more money into social programs like shelters to keep youth off the streets

-Advertise shelters to youth

-More support groups for youth

-Temporary shelter for homeless youth

-Have more services in place to help youth before they become homeless

-Take initiative

-Be proactive rather than reactive in aiding the community

-More services including shelters

-Raise awareness - most people are ignorant about the issues

-More events where the proceeds go to local initiatives

-More tax money

-More local jobs in the community

-Legalize abortion

-Increase government funding in training programs and education

-Provide different programs to help youth such as recreational programs & youth groups

-Increase government funding on these programs

-Educate youths about different ways in which to help

-They need support like money and jobs

-Establish shelters which provide food and clothing.  If the government is too short sighted to do this, communities could build these shelters independently to provide a future to people

-Provide jobs for youth that pay adequately

-More food banks for youth

Some ideas about "why we use a blog" from the Leadership Team:

-Good way of communicating between everyone, despite geographic distances

-Good way to respond to everyone at once

-Represents a decentralization of power

-Way to share our own experiences

-Ensures that we and everyone else can learn: important learning process!

-We gain Information Communications Technology skills

-Cheap and accessible

-Conversation is universally done