Youth: Preventing poverty and social exclusion before they take root

Doing well at school is one of the key factors in protecting against poverty. Conversely, dropping out can have repercussions on access to employment, income, and social participation. 

Although the graduation rate is on the rise, reaching 82.7% for the 2024–2025 school year, significant inequalities persist, reflecting the socioeconomic conditions of the communities where schools are located.¹ In Montreal, the graduation rate among students attending schools in advantaged communities was 93.5%, compared with 79.5% for those in disadvantaged communities.²

We have seen a worrying trend emerge in recent years: many young people are experiencing psychological distress.  

In Quebec, serious suicidal thoughts are more common among youth aged 15 to 29 than among older age groups. They are particularly prevalent between ages 15 and 24: 8% of 15-to-19-year-olds and 7% of 20-to-24-year-olds indicate having experienced suicidal ideation.³

Moreover, one in five young people reports having an anxiety disorder, depression, or an eating disorder, while one in four has been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.⁴

Certain groups are more affected than others. Transgender youth in Canada aged 15 to 24 are five times more likely to have had serious suicidal thoughts and 7.6 times more likely to have attempted suicide than their cisgender peers.⁵

In Greater Montreal, one in five people experiencing homelessness is under the age of 30. Within this group, 30% have been in the child protection system and a similar percentage identify as 2SLGBTQIA+.⁶

The paths that lead to youth homelessness are often marked by a combination of challenges, which may include family conflicts, financial difficulties, mental health issues, and disruptions in certain services, all of which can further undermine an already vulnerable situation.  

These realities underscore the importance of taking action early. Street outreach, community-based outreach, and individualized support help build and maintain connections with youth and address difficulties before they escalate.

Indigenous and racialized youth, newcomers and those with precarious immigration status, 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, and others may encounter additional obstacles arising from discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion. These realities can affect many aspects of their lives, including academic success, mental health, access to housing, and social integration. 

Although their backgrounds may differ, many of these young people share a common experience: facing barriers that do not affect everyone in the same way. Recognizing these inequalities is essential to creating environments that are more inclusive and services that are better suited to their circumstances.

Primarily works with 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, many of whom are also racialized, Indigenous and/or English-speaking. Project 10 provides safe, affirming spaces and school workshops that promote inclusion and strengthen knowledge of sexual and gender diversity. 

Located in Côte-des-Neiges, combines philosophical discussions and the sporting discipline of boxing to help youth build their confidence, critical thinking, openness to others, and interpersonal skills.

Uses street outreach to connect directly with youth in their communities. Outreach workers support and build trust with youth as they help them navigate challenges related to school engagement, interpersonal relationships, and health.

Has developed the Gamer de rue project to connect with youth in the digital spaces that are part of their day-to-day realities. This approach makes it possible to offer prevention, a listening ear, and support where young people already spend their time.