Editor: I am a Grade 10 student from Walnut Grove Secondary school. For my July writing project, I studied the issue of teen homelessness in 91原创.
As I read different articles and papers and held interviews regarding the problem, I realized its seriousness. I was surprised to learn of these challenges here in 91原创.
In my family, while growing up in Taiwan, when relatives visited from all over the world, even though the household was cramped it included everyone.
No one was ever left out. This family value increased my interest in studying this local issue further.
During the research process, I interviewed individuals from different government levels: Liberal Member of Parliament Cloverdale-91原创 City, John Aldag, Township councillor, Charlie Fox, and community youth advocate, Corey Reid.
The federal government of Canada is focusing on programs that will assist homeless youth such as: housing, employment and justice reform. However, Mr. Aldag says, 鈥淚t鈥檚 a challenge to find the right program at a right time for a specific individual.鈥�
One of the most recent programs in 91原创 is the youth HUB where I met youth advocate Corey Reid.
During a quick tour around the HUB on July 21, there were up to 15 teenagers utilizing the service between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
I felt extremely blessed to see volunteers preparing dinner and providing help for the teenagers in need.
Coun. Fox said that people should 鈥済et educated about youth homelessness, 鈥渄emonstrate support鈥� and 鈥渂ecome an advocate.鈥�
91原创 citizens can support the teen homeless issue by attending two upcoming events: the Home Depot鈥檚 Orange Door Day Event in September and an outdoor concert being organzied at the 91原创 Events Centre by the 91原创 School District on Sept. 23.
Hopefully these events will spur 91原创 into action and together we can make a significant impact on the teen homelessness problem in 91原创. No one will be left out.
Demi Hung,
Grade 10 student,
Walnut Grove Secondary School
