There is no place like home for the holidays, but for youth who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness in our region, home is not an option.
Youth Haven in Barrie launched its annual Boxes of Hope (BOH) campaign on Monday.
The public can purchase a Box of Hope for $50 and that money will be used to purchase gifts for youth in the organization's outreach, transitional and emergency shelter programs.
But the money goes beyond gifts under the tree on Christmas morning.
"This campaign ensures our youth are provided with three healthy meals a day, a warm bed, as well as counselling and other programming services," says Louise Jones, Youth Haven's Director of Fund Development. "Best of all, the youth get a feeling of belonging and knowing that our community cares enough to contribute to their well-being."
The BOH campaign lasts until the end of December.
Just over $58,000 was raised last year.
"With the purchase of a Box of Hope, each gift packages contain an assortment of items including pyjamas, mittens, bus passes and socks, as well as gift cards," says Jones.
She says a feeling of belonging at any time of the year is important, but especially at Christmas, and receiving a gift package goes a long way to doing that for the youth.
" I recall hearing the story of a youth who had not opened a Christmas present for several years and was thrilled to receive a gift thanks to the generosity of our community."
Youth Haven is Simcoe County’s only youth shelter for those between the ages of 16 and 24.
More information about BOH: boxesofhope.ca
