Back to School as a Homeless Youth: How REST Centres Provides Hope and Support

“Back to school for BIPOC youth facing homelessness is an absolute reminder of the inequities they endure—attending class without proper nutrition and carrying the heavy weight of not knowing the security of a home. REST Centres offers a bridge of hope, providing holistic support to help homeless and at-risk youth navigate these daunting challenges. Our goal is to ensure they not only succeed academically but also become independent, meaningful contributors to the growth of their communities." — Ben Bempah, Operations Director, REST Centres.

For many students, back-to-school season means new clothes, fresh notebooks, and excitement for the year ahead. But for homeless youth, it can be a time of immense stress and uncertainty. Without stable housing, access to resources, and emotional support, going back to school becomes an overwhelming challenge. That’s where organizations like REST Centres come in. They provide homeless BIPOC youth with the resources and care needed to succeed academically and regain control of their futures.

REST Centres’ holistic approach to supporting homeless youth focuses on more than just temporary shelter. Through programs that address emotional, physical, and educational needs, REST Centres helps participants transition from survival to stability. Let’s explore some of these critical programs and their impact on the lives of homeless youth, particularly as they prepare for the school year.

Healing: Mental Health Support

Mental health is a significant concern for homeless youth, especially during stressful transitions like starting or returning to school. Without adequate support, anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect their ability to learn and focus in the classroom.

REST Centres addresses this by offering mental health counseling to youth in need. From 2021 to 2023, the number of participants receiving counseling grew by an incredible 105.3%, from 38 to 78 individuals. These services have helped youth cope with the emotional toll of homelessness, making it easier for them to focus on their education and thrive academically.

Bridge of Hope: Secure and Dignified Shelter

One of the biggest barriers to academic success for homeless youth is the lack of stable, dignified housing. Without a safe place to sleep, studying and attending school become secondary concerns. REST Centres’ Bridge of Hope program focuses on providing secure and dignified shelter to homeless youth, giving them the foundation they need to rebuild their lives.

The impact of this program has been tremendous. In 2023 alone, the number of youth supported by the Bridge of Hope program increased by 131%, with clients doubling from 59 in 2022 to 136 in 2023. This program provides more than just a roof over their heads—it restores hope and dignity, empowering youth to focus on their education and future goals.

"Stable housing is the first step toward stability," notes Nikima, Program Manager of REST Centres. "When youth no longer have to worry about where they'll sleep, they can begin focusing on their studies and their future."

Bare Necessities: Addressing Basic Needs

For homeless youth, something as simple as access to food can be a daily struggle. Hunger affects their ability to concentrate and learn. REST Centres recognizes this need and works tirelessly to ensure youth have access to basic necessities. In 2023, 192 individuals received emergency food from REST Centres, ensuring that they could focus on school instead of where their next meal would come from.

LIFE Program: Empowering Homeless Youth

The LIFEE (Learning Initiatives Fostering Economic Empowerment) program at REST Centres offers young people the opportunity to learn life skills, gain employment support, and access housing opportunities. Since 2021, REST Centres has served 381 participants through this program, representing an astounding 280% increase in just a few short years.

The LIFEE program helps youth not only find housing but also build skills that will help them succeed in school and beyond. From financial literacy to job readiness, participants gain the tools they need to navigate adulthood and achieve their personal and academic goals.

A Fresh Start This School Year

Back-to-school season can be daunting for homeless youth, but with the help of REST Centres, they’re not facing it alone. Through mental health support, secure shelter, basic necessities, and life skills programs, REST Centres provides these young people with the resources and stability they need to focus on their education and their future.

As one youth from the program shared, "Before REST Centres, I didn’t know how I was going to finish school. Now, I have a place to stay, someone to talk to, and I feel like I can finally focus on my dreams."

As the number of homeless youth continues to grow, so too does the need for organizations like REST Centres. Their unwavering commitment to helping youth overcome adversity ensures that each individual can walk into the classroom with confidence, ready to learn and build a brighter future.

REST Centres is more than just a shelter; it’s a bridge to hope and empowerment. With their support, homeless youth are not only going back to school—they’re going back with a sense of purpose, stability, and the promise of a better tomorrow.

How You Can Help

REST Centres relies on the generosity of people like you to continue providing vital services to homeless youth. As we approach the new school year, your support is more crucial than ever. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

• Donate: Your financial contributions can help provide housing, mental health support, and basic necessities to homeless youth. Every dollar counts in giving these young people a chance at a brighter future.

• Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to support REST Centres’ programs, from mentoring youth to helping with events and fundraising.

• Spread the Word: Share this blog, follow REST Centres on social media, and let others know about the important work we’re doing to support homeless youth in our community.

Together, we can ensure that no young person is left behind. Visit REST Centres' website to learn more about how you can get involved and help homeless youth build a stable future.