Prevention of Youth Homelessness International Conference

The International Conference on the Prevention of Youth Homelessness took place February 24 to 26, 2025, at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto, Ontario. Organized by A Way Home Canada and the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness, this three-day event brought together several hundred researchers, service providers, individuals with lived experience, advocates, and thought leaders from Canada and abroad.

The conference aimed to mobilize research on prevention and showcase innovative policy and practice models that address youth homelessness. Sessions covered themes such as early intervention, successful exit from homelessness, health and well-being, and the role of data and technology in prevention strategies. Attendees had access to plenaries, sessions, and networking opportunities.

Peel CAS’ CWICE Managers Liz Okai and Danielle Ungara presented on a panel discussing child welfare reform to prevent youth homelessness, with a specific focus on the needs of Unaccompanied and Separated Children. Conference organizers shared this presentation offered a way for attendees to better understand the needs of newcomer and refugee youth. “These children and youth have unique experiences, diverse identities, and some striking vulnerabilities; they arrive in Canada separated from parents, family members, and community networks that have previously protected them. As service providers, and system leaders, it is imperative that we understand and plan for these youth – our services are inclusive and providers are prepared to offer support,” shared Danielle Ungara.

The CWICE presentation noted most UAS children and youth reside in the community upon arrival - with friends, community members, or extended family members – however some do enter formal out-of-home care or voluntary youth service agreements with child welfare agencies. Since 2018, CWICE has led Ontario’s development of baseline data to understand this distinct client population. Sharing the first-ever data set in Canada, the panelists discussed the level of diversity and intersectionalities that these clients face.

Reflecting on the conference, Liz Okai noted: “During the Youth Homelessness Prevention Conference in Toronto, I was struck by the revelation that the child welfare system is the largest pipeline to youth homelessness in the country. That so many young people experiencing homelessness were once in care is deeply concerning. This reality points to systemic failure and an urgent call for action. We owe our children and youth better.”

Rounding out the Peel CAS conference delegation was Natasha Hercules, Supervisor of Youth Success 16+ Team.  Natasha observed, “One thing that really stuck with me was the idea that preventing youth homelessness starts with a mindset — believing that we all have the ability to make a difference. It could start as simply as building connections and helping young people grow their support network.”  Natasha was pleased to see CWICE colleagues share their work, as well as the importance of helping unaccompanied youth find stable housing while navigating immigration needs. “Their care and dedication to walking alongside young people came through in such a genuine and thoughtful way. I left the experience feeling inspired and hopeful about the role we can all play in supporting youth.”

We are grateful to have been invited to participate and attend this conference. We thank the organizers for the incredible learning opportunity, and their ongoing work in research, advocacy, and prevention.

To learn more, please visit:

https://preventhomelessness.ca/about/

Youth Homelessness Prevention Conference | The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness