Imagine having to flee your home due to military conflict, leaving everything behind—only to find yourself in a new country, separated from your family and unsure of what the future holds. This was the experience of one youth who found refuge at Youth Without Shelter (YWS), a not-for-profit dedicated to combatting youth homelessness in the Greater Toronto Area.
“Sometimes it's really overwhelming to consider how many questions in my life need answering, but I found a warm and welcoming environment when I arrived at YWS,” says the youth. “I am grateful for the support at YWS and how I have been spared from tackling many of those questions right now.”
Stories like this highlight the critical role YWS plays in providing not just shelter, but hope and a path forward. Since 1986, YWS has provided a safe haven for young people facing immense challenges and for nearly a decade, Concert Properties has partnered with YWS to support its mission.
The company has proudly organized various volunteer events and donation drives, provided consistent financial support and delivered strategic guidance to YWS, helping them expand their Stay in School program and acquire a 24-bed rooming house and also contributing property management expertise. A cornerstone of the partnership is the YWS Engagement Day an annual celebration that that this year took place on August 9th, 2024, bringing together Concert Properties employees and YWS staff and residents for a day of Oscar-themed games, team-building exercises, prizes and a lunch.
As part of the Engagement Day, last year, Concert Properties also initiated the annual August Food Drive for YWS, to refill food reserves during a period when they are traditionally low. During the month of August, employees collect donations throughout our residential and commercial office buildings, with 1,640 pounds of non-perishable food donations delivered in the first week alone.
"Youth Engagement Day is a unique opportunity for Concert Properties employees to directly connect with homeless youth in their shelter environment,” says Kelly Wilson, Senior Vice President, Development at Concert Properties. “It’s also a day that leaves us feeling humble, grateful and proud. The bonds formed among our team and the impact we make together remind us of the importance of giving back to our community”—one of the founding principles of the company.
“These events are a great way to get our residents out of their shells, try something new, make friends and have fun,” says Anastasia Kemp, Government and Stakeholder Relations Manager at YWS. “It’s important for people to support YWS because we provide unique, comprehensive support for youth experiencing homelessness. From our Stay in School Program to Life Skills, Employment, Mental Health, Housing, and Aftercare programs, we ensure that every youth has the tools they need to move out of YWS and into stable housing.”
And there are many ways to contribute to YWS’s mission. “One way supporters can help is through our Adopt-a-Bed Monthly Giving program,” says Kemp. “A donation of $50 provides a youth with one night of shelter and three meals. For $100, you can provide new bedding and pillows. For $245, you can give one week of safe shelter.”
“If I was on the streets without support, I don’t know what my life would be like,” said the youth. “But with the support of YWS, I want to graduate as an engineer and feel that I am closer to exiting homelessness.”
To learn more, donate or volunteer to help combat youth homelessness visit yws.on.ca. Together, we can help build a brighter future for youth in need.