Project Overview

There is a substantial body of evidence that speaks to the risks faced by young people who are transitioning out of homelessness. Even after stable housing is obtained, homelessness frequently re-occurs and, for most, paths forward in major life domains such as employment, education, and mental health are greatly challenged. Housing alone is not sufficient for permanent exits from homelessness and marginality in youth populations. However, much less clear are (i) details about models of wrap-around supports that are demonstrating good outcomes in terms of stabilizing housing and enabling youth to flourish after homelessness, and, (ii) how the coordination and scaling out of those models can be enabled. The proposed research will use a multiple case study design and systematic reviews to articulate the service models of the most promising housing stabilization approaches and use a rigorous knowledge exchange strategy to build capacity in the sector. This work will attend closely to the full diversity of youth experiencing homelessness and will align with other practice advancements (e.g., housing first for youth; family reunification) to contribute to the larger effort to end youth homelessness in Canada.