COVID19

A Shelter Worker's Experience on the Frontlines

A Shelter Worker's Experience on the Frontlines

Despite the struggles and health risks, Horizons for Youth’s frontline workers have continued to do their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Without our workers, our shelter could not operate and at-risk youth would not have a safe place to call home.

Abdul Khan is one of our amazing frontline heroes. He is the Day Program Coordinator at Horizons for Youth and has worked at our agency for 15 months. We asked Abdul about the challenges of working on the frontlines during the pandemic, and found out what inspires him to keep going

Living at a Shelter During the COVID-19 pandemic

Living at a Shelter During the COVID-19 pandemic

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.”

COVID-19 Increasing Rates of Food Insecurity in Toronto

COVID-19 Increasing Rates of Food Insecurity in Toronto

Food insecurity is now the number one reason that Torontonians are calling 211, which is a directory of community, government and social service agencies in the GTA. Food insecurity is defined as a lack of access to a sufficient amount of affordable and nutritious food due to financial constraints. Previously, food insecurity was seventh on the list of reasons individuals called 211. Between April 1st and April 8th, 2020, 211 made 2,726 referrals to food banks in the city, which is six times more than during the same time period last year.[1]

COVID-19: Impact on the Mental Health of Homeless Youth

COVID-19: Impact on the Mental Health of Homeless Youth

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.

COVID-19 - Stuck in Homelessness

COVID-19 - Stuck in Homelessness

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.

Our Response to COVID-19

Our Response to COVID-19

We are in the midst of a public health crisis and youth experiencing homelessness are one of the most vulnerable populations to the spread of COVID-19. These are the actions that Horizons for Youth is taking to help prevent the spread of the virus and to support the health and well-being of our youth, staff members, volunteers, and community partners