OVER-REPRESENTATION
IN THE SHELTER SYSTEM
In November 2024, Eva’s conducted our annual youth survey
to gain deeper insights into the demographics of the young people we serve. This survey plays a critical role in ensuring our programs and services remain responsive to the evolving needs of youth experiencing homelessness.
The results from this year’s survey highlight
that a significant proportion of
Black, newcomer, and 2SLGBTQ+ youth
continue to rely on Eva’s for support.
82%
self-identified as
Black
60%
self-identified as
refugee or refugee claimant*
26%
self-identified as
2SLGBTQ+
* A refugee is an individual compelled to leave their homeland due to persecution, war, or violence. A refugee claimant is someone within Canada who seeks protection by making a claim for refugee status.
Of the youth who self-identified as 2SLGBTQ+,
83%
also self-identified as Black
INCREASED CHALLENGES FOR YOUTH WITH INTERSECTING IDENTITIES
Issues such as racism, discrimination, homophobia, and transphobia intersect, significantly impacting youth with multiple identities.
SEEKING SAFE HAVEN
An increasing number of newcomers are coming to Canada, seeking shelter from war, violence, persecution, human rights abuses, and environmental disasters.
Of the youth at Eva’s who self-identified as a refugee or refugee claimant:
also self-identified as Black
also self-identified as 2SLGBTQ+
Most of the young people at Eva’s today have attended high school, and many have college or university education.
DEMOGRAPHIC INSIGHTS
16 – 18
of youth have at least some high school education
of youth have at least some post-secondary education
TOP GOALS SET BY YOUTH AT EVA’S
With unemployment rates for Black youth at more than double those of their non-racialized peers, it’s clear that systemic barriers are limiting access to meaningful employment. Despite a strong desire to work, earn a stable income, and contribute to their communities, Black youth face lower employment rates and earn significantly less than the national average, further compounding financial hardships.
