Stay in School Program

               Where Homelessness Doesn't Stop Education

"Staying here while I work on finishing school will be some of the most productive years of my life."

- a current resident

Youth homelessness can leave scars that may not be healed in a lifetime.  What makes the damage even more severe is when youth quit school because they are forced to work to pay for housing. Youth Without Shelter's new Stay in School Program is designed to change this outlook.

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.  The youth we serve are generally fleeing abusive homes, spent much of their young lives in group/foster homes and have limited life skills. These youth typically need a safe and stable environment to live in, and support and guidance from qualified staff. They receive (volunteer tutors, computer time) as well as emotional support and access to health services through our counseling and referral program.  Students are provided with transit tokens, basic school supplies and school appropriate clothing based upon donations.  A partnership with York University provides skilled tutoring on-site. Packed lunches are available for school days and the residents assist with the cooking on weekends.

Stay in School residents are housed primarily in single and double rooms, equipped with a study desk, bed and closet bureau.  A living room, dining room, computer lab and laundry room complete the residence.  A multi-cultural and multi-lingual staff team is in place.

Youth in the Stay in School Program are responsible for maintaining their grades, attending school regularly and completing various household chores. As they approach graduation they will be required to actively pursue independent housing options and employment.

All youth in the Stay in School Program meet with a case manager for an initial assessment to assist in the development of their case plan and educational goals.  Meetings are then held bi-weekly to follow-up with their progress.  The focus is upon setting and achieving realistic short term educational goals. 

Referring Professionals click here for application.