"I feel like I'm in a revolving door, and COVID has made it spin a lot faster": The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth experiencing homelessness in Toronto, Canada.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Research has shown that youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) face barriers to social inclusion and are at risk for poor mental health. With the COVID-19 pandemic threatening the health, wellbeing, and economic circumstances of people around the world, this study aims to assess the impacts of the pandemic on YEH in Toronto, Ontario, as well as to identify recommendations for future waves of COVID-19.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with YEH (ages 16-24, n = 45) and staff who work in one of four downtown emergency shelters for youth (n = 31) in Toronto, Ontario.

Results

YEH experienced both structural changes and psychosocial impacts resulting from the pandemic. Structural changes included a reduction in services, barriers to employment and ho

SUBMITTER: Noble A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9394800 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature