S.T.E.P. U.P.

TRUTH OR MYTH?

100

All homeless people abuse some type of drug. Typically as a coping mechanism.

Myth... Some homeless are substance abusers; research suggests one in five. Many of these are included in the 39% who suffer from mental illness.

200

Most homeless people live on the streets.

Myth... Most homeless people don’t live on the street. In Toronto, more than 90% of the overall homeless population are staying in sheltered services.

300

People experiencing homelessness are at increased risk of premature death.

TRUTH

In addition to chronic diseases and mental health issues.

STATISTICS

100

Up to this amount of youth are homeless on any given night in Toronto. 

2000, 1030, 1480

2,000

200

1 in this number of shelter users in Canada are youth.

1:2, 1:5, 1:10

1:5

300

This estimated range of people experience homelessness on any given night.

8,000 to over 12,000

CAUSES & PROGRAMS

100

What percentage of YWS residents are black?

90%

One of the most needed items in the shelter are black hair care products. Donate if you can!

200

What number of programs are offered through YWS?

6, 4, 9

9

300

What is one of the most common causes of homelessness in Canada?

Lack of Low-Income Housing

Family Violence