Creation of Youth Shelter In Motion

Out of 341 people that used a shelter in the city last year, more than 62 of them were between 16 to 24 years old, according to the annual homelessness report card by the Human Development Council. 

Colin McDonald of Safe Harbour Transitional Youth Services tells CHSJ news that the creation of a youth shelter is in motion. He says that we need a shelter specifically for young homeless people to address their unique needs. Any mental health or addiction issues are likely just starting, says McDonald, the youth shelter could head things off at the pass.

McDonald says that young homeless people are the least likely demographic to use shelters, so the numbers don't paint a full picture of youth homelessness in Saint John.