A Program to Assist Schools with Preventing Homelessness
Homelessness in Ontario - Your School Could Make a Difference
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.
40% of those experiencing homelessness in Hastings County had their first encounter with homelessness 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 addressing this issue will require all of us working together to make a difference.
Homelessness could be someone you see every day…
Mitch wears “name brand” 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.
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
Homelessness is not just sleeping outside, staying at a friend's house on their couch, living in a hotel or living in a trailer in someone's backyard are all types of homelessness.
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 Myths About Homelessness
Not everyone who becomes homeless uses drugs, not everyone who is homeless is lazy and doesn't want to work. It’s most common for youth entering into homelessness to have a relationship breakdown in their family.
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 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 participating guests from Grace Inn who are open to share 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.
Let's find a time...
Book a Session for Your School or Group
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We can't wait to hear from you!