Youth, as the saying goes, is supposed to be the best time in your life. But for many youth in Toronto, this period in their lives is marked by vulnerability, instability and marginalization. Yet, in spite of their hardships and a sometimes confusing and complicated array of services, many youth are able to demonstrate remarkable resilience in their coping strategies and identities.

The Wellesley Institute recently funded two research projects which explored the needs of marginally housed/homeless youth and drew on their lived experiences to articulate positive steps forward.

Take a look at what youth had to say:

Seeing the Possibilities: The Need for a Mental Health Focus Amongst Street-Involved Youth

This report measures the mental health of street-involved youth and explores their degree of resilience in the face of the challenges of street life.

Drugs, Homelessness & Health: Homeless Youth Speak Out About Harm Reduction

This report by Shout Clinic records and presents the voices of high-risk, substance-using homeless street-involved youth who are engaging in some of the most risky types of drug use and practices.