A Pilot Program to Assist Schools with Preventing Homelessness
Homelessness in Ontario - Your School Could Make a Difference
Homelessness could be someone you see every day…
Mitch wears brand-name clothes to boost his chances in job interviews.
Tara drives a decent car but can’t afford rent.
Les takes his kids to school every morning but sleeps at a shelter.
Homelessness
could be…
The guy packing your groceries.
Someone in your everyday life—and you just might not know it.
The woman you just walked by at the mall.
Maybe even a friend crashing your couch. (Couch surfing is considered homeless!)
With the support of the Ontario Trillium Grant Foundation, Grace Inn is embarking on an exciting project to engage with schools, youth groups, and communities. Our mission is to educate, equip, and empower our community with the tools needed to prevent youth homelessness, one step at a time.
HASTINGS COUNTY STATISTIC
First Encounters are as high as 40% Before Age 19
Did you know that 40% of those experiencing homelessness in Hastings County had their first encounter with it before the age of 19?
The causes and consequences of youth homelessness are distinct from those of adult homelessness, requiring specialized approaches in prevention, support, and intervention.
This local statistic is truly eye-opening, and as you know, addressing this pressing issue will require all of us working together to make a difference.
The Impact of PEER SUPPORT.
Quote from a student who was impacted by their teacher - preventing homelessness or helping them to find assistance - first line of defence.
What is FLASH?
A 1-Hour Educational Program for Youth in Hastings County
to Foster Lasting Awareness and Support for Homelessness
Homelessness Isn’t Always What You See
It’s not just people on the streets. Couch surfing, staying with friends or family, or living in transitional housing is still homelessness. Your friends in these situations might qualify for resources that can help them.
Spotting the First Warning Signs
There are so many different reasons someone might become homeless. It’s not always what people think. Every story is unique – like the woman who gave up her home to help someone in even more need, or the military vet whose life unraveled unexpectedly.
Preventing Homelessness – Who’s at Risk?
Learn how to recognize when someone might be at risk, and what to do if you, or someone you know, is facing homelessness. Be a safe space—the words you use matter. Avoid hurtful terms like "addict" or "crazy" so others feel comfortable coming to you for help.
Empathy & Understanding
Why do people act the way they do when experiencing homelessness? We'll explain the reasons behind behaviours that might seem uncomfortable, like why someone might be loud or defensive—it often comes from being ignored or staying safe.
Busting 10 Myths About Homelessness
It’s not just people on the streets. Couch surfing, staying with friends or family, or living in transitional housing is still homelessness. Your friends in these situations might qualify for resources that can help them.
Real Stories from Hastings Youth
Find out how homelessness affects your own community and what resources are available in Hastings County. Hear from youth who’ve experienced homelessness and how they’ve navigated through it.
How Can You Help?
Homelessness is a hard reality, but there are ways you can make a difference. When we all care, the impact is bigger than we realize. Every small action has a ripple effect.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
This is a heavy topic, and we know it can feel overwhelming. If you feel strongly about doing something to help, we’ll show you what to do next, while also helping you take care of your own well-being.
Book this 1-hour Impactful Experience for Your Students
Real Stories from Real People
Students will hear first-hand accounts of youth in our community who’ve faced homelessness and how they overcame it.Facts That Matter
They’ll learn fact-based information about homelessness right here in Hastings County—what’s really happening, not just what they think.Interactive & Engaging Activities
Through fun, interactive activities, like a “game,” students will explore the realities of homelessness and understand the challenges people face.Videos from Our Community
We’ll show videos featuring guests from Grace Inn, sharing their personal stories of homelessness and resilience.Hands-On Experience (for Elementary)
Younger students will experience the difficulties of dressing a teacher for extreme weather, using only limited donations—30°C summers or -20°C winters.
Students will be able to…
Recognize Hidden Homelessness
You’ll be able to spot the signs of hidden homelessness, like couch surfing or people staying in temporary housing, and understand that it can affect people you see every day.Challenge Misconceptions
You’ll confidently debunk common myths about homelessness, like the idea that people experiencing it are lazy or dangerous.Understand Local Homelessness
You’ll have a clear understanding of homelessness in your community, knowing what resources exist and how they’re being used to help people in Hastings County.Show Empathy and Respect
You’ll be able to respond to homelessness with empathy and care, understanding the “why” behind the behaviours of people in these tough situations.Take Action
You’ll have the tools to help if a friend is at risk of homelessness or already in that situation, making you a safe and supportive person to talk to.Be More Informed
You’ll leave with fact-based, first-hand information about what it really means to experience homelessness as a young person, thanks to stories from local youth.Help Create Change
You’ll know how small actions can make a big difference in the lives of those facing homelessness and be empowered to help in ways that matter.
Book a Session for Your School
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!