Episode 25: Youth Shelters, From The Frontlines

Oct 4

Part ONE of YOUTH SHELTERS: EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Youth shelters are an invaluable resource in the fight against youth homelessness. The shelter system is integral for immediate intervention in times of crisis and long-term support of youth without support elsewhere. Without youth shelters to take on the brunt of emergency response, we wouldn’t get anywhere. Too many youths would be outright lost to the adult system or the streets.

In this three-part mini-series, we will uncover the truth of life in a youth shelter in Peel, from both a service provider and youth perspective. We’ll capture some of the rules, norms, and taboos that exist within youth shelters to keep them comfortable, practical, and secure for everyone.

In this episode, Youth Support Supervisor Crystal Groves, Youth Worker Latoya Green, and Complex Case Coordinator Abigail Fraser-Dillon from Our Place Peel share what life is like inside the shelter as service providers. Let's learn about the services provided, their impact on the community, and the pros and cons of the youth shelter system.

About the Guests:

Crystal Groves

Youth Support Supervisor | Our Place Peel - Brampton | She/Her

Crystal's background is in a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Criminal Justice Degree, a Diploma in Community and Justice Services as well as an Advanced Crisis Intervention and Counselling Certificate from Humber College. Crystal is a passionate Child and Youth advocate with experience working with vulnerable “at-risk” youth experiencing mental illness, homelessness and substance use dependency.

Latoya Green

Youth Worker | Our Place Peel - Brampton | She/Her

Latoya joined Our Place Peel in November of 2022 as a relief staff and moved to full-time staff in January of 2023. She achieved her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at York University and her Diploma in Social Service Work at Seneca College. She enjoys working with youths and feels her day is fulfilled when the youths achieve their goal, whether it's small or large. "

Abigail Fraser-Dillon

Complex Case Coordinator | Our Place Peel - Mississauga | She/Her

Abigail is a compassionate caring individual who is committed to assisting clients in developing healthier, more positive life changes. During her time at Our Place Peel, Abigail has transitioned from a Youth Worker to her current role where she pride myself in helping youths get the help they need to become productive members of society. Abigail is am a firm believer in the organization's mission of "empowering youth through prevention, intervention and support in accessing safe and sustainable housing," and works diligently to make this a reality for them.

About the Host:

Mya Moniz

Peer Support Leader | REST Centres | She/Her

Mya is an independent youth and Former Crown Ward of the Peel Children’s Aid Society. She’s achieved an Honours Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction from the University of Toronto in English, Professional Writing and Communications, and Sociology. She also sits at the Senior Leadership Table for the Peel Alliance to End Homelessness as a youth with lived experience.

Mya believes there is great power in healing, growth, and catharsis through writing and storytelling, and she strives to help others tell their stories the way she tells hers.

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