On Feb. 27, students, faculty, and staff from Niagara University Ontario left the warmth of their own homes to experience what the thousands of homeless youth in York Region face each year in the dead of winter.
Led by Dr. Galina Boiarintseva, assistant professor of management, the NUO group participated in the 360°Experience. The event raises funds and awareness for 360°kids, an organization that aims to prevent homelessness by helping youth at risk or in crisis transition to a state of safety and stability.
The group built used boxes as shelters during the night.
The immersive experience, which took place on the NUO Vaughan campus and on the streets around it, gave the group a firsthand understanding of the pressing issues and harsh realities faced by homeless youth. As the group walked the cold streets looking for shelter, they engaged in insightful discussions on mental health, immigration, and other issues impacting the lives of 13-24-year-olds experiencing homelessness.
“There were tears, teamwork, empathy, deep discussions, and powerful moments of reflection,” said Dr. Boiarintseva. “You can read about youth homelessness, you can hear the statistics, but until you step into their shoes, you don’t fully understand the challenges they face every single day. This experience reminded us why the work of 360°kids is so essential. Their commitment to supporting vulnerable youth and providing them with safety, stability, and opportunity is nothing short of inspiring.”