Toronto is considered one of the most affluent and diverse cities in Canada. With a population of almost 3 million people, Toronto continues to gain top-rank as one of the best cities and must-see destinations for Canadians (City of Toronto, 2020). Unfortunately, Toronto also has the largest homeless population in Canada with "3300 to 10,000 youth" experiencing extreme food insecurity and homelessness over the course of just one year. 40% of these youth have zero access to food for at least one whole day within a weeks-span leaving them nutritionally vulnerable (Youth Homelessness, 2020). The long-term implications of youth homelessness and food insecurity leave these individuals with an increased risk of violence, exploitation, abuse, and victimization (Youth Homelessness, 2020). So, what can we do to help?
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the state and abilities of many youth shelters across Canada. Shelters in Toronto and the GTA are suffering due to the inability to accept many donations items because of the global pandemic. Currently, many shelters are in most need of new hand sanitizers, surgical masks, toilet paper, disinfectant wipes, and latex free gloves. Through our Fuel For School Drive FNB will seek to provide shelters with what they need as best as we can. To learn more about youth homelessness in the GTA and Toronto visit www.yws.on.ca.
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