Youth homelessness prevention in Greater Victoria is both urgent and possible. Our Youth Homelessness Prevention Mapping Project (2024) revealed that while there are strong programs and dedicated organizations working tirelessly, many young people continue to face barriers in housing, mental health, and financial stability. By listening directly to youth and frontline service providers, we identified the systemic gaps and solutions that can change outcomes for young people in our community.
Youth homelessness is different from adult homelessness. It often begins with fractured family relationships, financial instability, and/or transitions from government care. On any given night, more than 7,000 youth across Canada experience homelessness, and nearly half of people who are chronically homeless had their first experience before age 25.
Locally, Victoria’s 2023 Point-in-Time count found that 8% of respondents were youth, though the real number is likely higher due to “hidden homelessness,” such as couch surfing or staying in unsafe, temporary housing. Prevention is not only the right thing to do – it is cost effective. Research shows that preventing homelessness costs about one-quarter of what it costs to support someone after they lose their housing.
What Youth Told Us
Through focus groups, youth shared what’s working in the current system and where it falls short. They highlighted the importance of youth-specific shelters like Out of the Rain, the support of youth workers, detox programs, and employment initiatives such as the START program. These resources made a difference in helping them feel supported and connected.
But young people also pointed to challenges. Social assistance rates are too low to cover even the basics, and the stigma they face makes the process even harder. Health supports come with long waitlists, leaving many without help when they need it most. Affordable housing is scarce and navigating services often feels like a “referral runaround,” where every door is the wrong door. Youth also described feeling dismissed or discriminated against in social programs, especially those facing racial profiling or restrictive program rules.
What Service Providers Told Us
Frontline youth service providers expressed many of the same concerns. They stressed that while Victoria has many excellent prevention programs, most are running at full capacity with long waitlists. The demand for substance use and mental health supports far exceeds supply, leaving youth waiting months or years for critical care. Service providers also called for expanded life skills programs, more transitional and supportive housing (including sober and pet-friendly options), and stronger collaboration between government ministries and frontline staff to ensure consistent and effective responses.
Together, we can change the trajectory for young people in our region.
You can help by exploring and sharing our Youth Resource Database. By raising awareness and advocating for investments in housing, supports and prevention programs we can ensure that every young person in Greater Victoria has the chance to build a safe and stable future.
This blog was prepared by the Alliance to End Homelessness in the Capital Region as part of the Youth Homelessness Prevention Mapping Project, supported by the Victoria Foundation. Learn more at victoriahomelessness.ca.