“If you were to look at me, you wouldn’t be able to tell that I live at a shelter. I never thought I would end up living in a shelter. I heard of this program from my Guidance Counselor at school. I was in a situation where I needed a place to stay badly. I feel that the shelter is my home.  At 16 years old, I am the youngest in the house. I’m going to have to say I couldn’t have been in a better place than this.” YWS resident, age 16

Youth homelessness can leave scars that may not be healed in a lifetime. Homelessness and leaving school early go hand-in-hand and are a major life-long disadvantage for youth. Youth Without Shelter’s Stay in School Program is designed to change this outlook. Since opening in 2007, 27 high school graduations have been celebrated in the Stay in School Program.

The Stay in School Program removes the barriers a homeless youth faces in completing their education by providing a safe and stable environment to live in and support and guidance from qualified staff. Twenty youth in the Stay in School Program are accommodated in their own wing of our facilities where they can reside as they are completing their education. Priority is given to youth aged 16 to 19 who are attending high school full-time. The goals of the Stay in School Program are threefold: educational, accommodation and skills development. The program is designed to support homeless youth in achieving success in their educational goals and to learn the habits, attitudes and skills to increase their ability to find and keep permanent housing and employment. All youth work with a case manager to develop a “Plan of Care” outlining their academic, employment and housing goals.

Youth in the program have access to volunteer tutors and an on-site computer lab to assist with homework. Students are provided with transit passes, basic school supplies and school appropriate clothing based upon donations. Packed lunches are available for school days. Youth in the Stay in School Program are responsible for maintaining their grades, attending school regularly and completing various household chores.

Stay in School Case Manager shares her thoughts:

“All of the youth in our program have a story to tell. To be certain life has not always been kind to them. I believe a proper education offers these youth their best chance for success. As a case manager, my job is to ensure they have the necessary skills, motivation and focus as they move out into the world.” Yesica

How to apply? Referring professionals click here