Cold Days & No Places for our Youth to Stay

It is officially January 2023 in Canada. The month of January symbolizes the beginning of the new year and a fresh new start. However, the month of January in Canada also indicates wearing thick jackets and heavy boots, cars skidding on the icy roads, and not being able to make it to work on time due to the extreme weather conditions! 

Right now, the Peel Region is enduring the freezing cold weather, with lots of snow and hail, making it difficult to stay warm. While many of us can cozy up under our warm blankets with a hot cup of cocoa in our heated homes, there are many individuals struggling to find shelter during these dangerous weather conditions.

Living outside poses an increased risk to persons facing unsheltered homelessness throughout the winter. Cold temperatures can induce hypothermia, a condition in which your body breaks down heat faster than it can generate it. Individuals who are homeless frequently lack access to essential resources such as protective winter clothing and warm housing. This is particularly evident in the evening when temperatures significantly decrease below zero.

Since 2015, REST Centres has been working diligently to ensure that youth in the Peel Region never have to experience these precarious circumstances. In 2022, 189 young people applied to receive housing services from REST. REST believes that shelter is a fundamental right. REST acts proactively to find safe, affordable, and sustainable housing, as well as continuing support to help tenants keep their leases.

REST Centres extends a special thank you to Raising the Roof and Rate my Agent for making a substantial impact on the lives of our community's youth by contributing a generous gift. Without your support we would not be able to provide our youth with as many opportunities to grow and develop. You truly make a difference for our organization, and REST Centres is extremely grateful for your kindness!

 REST Centres believes that when the community comes together, the struggle to eradicate youth homelessness is enhanced. Individuals that share our enthusiasm and dedication are encouraged to participate in our journey to assist the youth in our community!