Look what happens because you chose to #bethedifference and support Youth Haven’s Coldest Night of the Year Barrie walk.

Two of our youth (L-R: 17-year-old Jon and 19-year-old Nathan) volunteered at the Barrie City Hall Rotunda for CNOY on Feb. 22, 2025.

Nathan has been in emergency care at Youth Haven for two years and is now in the transitional program.

Nathan said he was not in a good spot when he arrived at Youth Haven.

“The family dynamic was not the best, but as soon as I came to Youth Haven I learned more or less that it’s safer to be myself than it is to just hide and not be myself. Right now, I have a bunch of small goals that I try to get to every day.”

Jon came to Youth Haven when he was 16.

“I am in Grade 12, and on my way to college for engineering,” Jon said.

He understands it might be hard for some people to believe, including those his age, that kids can be homeless.

“In my case, I don’t have any family at all. If you are a kid out there, and you are with your mom and dad, hug them.”