Local businesses joining United Way East Ontario\u2019s effort to prevent and end youth homelessness not only helps build a stronger, safer, and healthier community, but gives a boost to Ottawa\u2019s economy.<\/p>\n
In the decade that the organization has worked to prevent youth homelessness, solving the issue in Ottawa has never felt more attainable than it does today \u2013 especially after Mayor Mark Sutcliffe pledged this past September to end youth homelessness in the city by 2030.<\/p>\n
A $1 million fundraising effort focused on homelessness prevention<\/p>\n
Following that announcement, United Way East Ontario stepped up with a commitment to raise $1 million over the next five years for investment in local prevention efforts.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe conversations we\u2019ve had in recent months with politicians, front-line organizations, and individual donors about coming together to end youth homelessness in Ottawa and across East Ontario have been inspiring,\u201d says President and CEO Rachael Wilson. \u201cThere is real momentum, renewed potential for progress, and we are asking the business community to join us.\u201d<\/p>\n
Between 1,200 and 1,400 youth are homeless in Ottawa each year. These young people experience instability, abuse, and unsafe environments. They struggle to stay healthy, stay in school, and stay working.<\/p>\n
United Way East Ontario and its partners continue to help youth access vital\u00a0supports, including safe, stable housing.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The organization is focused on investing in\u00a0prevention-first strategies, tackling youth homelessness at its root by focusing on early intervention and long-term stability.\u00a0In essence, stopping youth homelessness before it starts.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is important work, but we can\u2019t do it alone,\u201d adds Wilson. \u201cEvery young person deserves a place to call home.\u201d<\/p>\n
Why it\u2019s important for businesses to get involved<\/p>\n
Here are a few reasons why it\u2019s important that local businesses be active participants in preventing youth homelessness:<\/p>\n
Giving back fosters a connection that keeps folks supporting local businesses.
\nBusinesses that prioritize social impact attract employees and customers who care about making a difference.
\nCompanies that invest in their communities build stronger relationships with their neighbours.
\nThe more youth that get help before they are in crisis, the fewer will be forced to streets and shelters.<\/p>\n
United Way brings partners across housing, mental health, and education together to create coordinated solutions and a long-term strategy to prevent homelessness.\u00a0<\/p>\n
This means providing local youth with wrap-around supports that help them build a more stable life \u2013 things like mental health counselling, flexible education programs, and life and work skills programs that boost their independence, confidence, and ability to thrive in the community.\u00a0<\/p>\n
United Way\u2019s new investment is not a one-time effort, either \u2013 it\u2019s part of a long-term strategy to transform the homelessness system from crisis response to prevention-first.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cLet\u2019s\u00a0help young folks build positive connections with family, friends, schools, and their communities,\u201d Wilson says.\u00a0<\/p>\n