Template-rwd

Conclusion

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50

1

My name is Mia (fictitious name), and I was born into a family of educated parents who are both successful lawyers. Growing up, I had many opportunities, but my life took a different turn. At the age of 14, I began smoking, and soon after, I entered into a relationship with my boyfriend. Unfortunately, I didn’t pay much attention to my studies, and as I grew older, I became less focused on school and my future.

By the time I turned 18, I had moved out and leased a basement apartment with one of my boyfriends. We were always partying, drinking heavily, and using weed, along with other drugs. Our lifestyle quickly spiraled out of control, and the expenses of maintaining this reckless way of living grew unbearable. Between rent, substance abuse, and unhealthy choices, I found myself unable to manage financially.

Eventually, the money ran out, and I became homeless. It’s been a difficult journey, one marked by poor decisions and missed opportunities, but I am trying to find my way back. I hope to one day rebuild my life, and with the right support, get back on track.

2

My name is Joe (fictitious name), and I grew up in Toronto. Life took a hard turn for me at the age of 10 when my father passed away from lung cancer. His death left a deep void in our family. My mother, overwhelmed by grief, fell into drug addiction, and from then on, life became a struggle. She could barely manage to cover our living costs, and we were constantly facing financial difficulties.

As a teenager, I turned to alcohol to escape the pain and instability at home. Drinking became my way of coping, and before long, I found myself using drugs. It started with small things, but soon, it became an all-consuming habit. The addiction took over my life, making it difficult to hold onto any sense of normalcy or stability.

Eventually, my drug use led me down a path of poverty, and I lost everything. I found myself homeless, drifting from place to place, trying to survive. It’s a tough existence, but I’m still here, trying to figure out how to break free from the cycle of addiction and rebuild my life. Though I’ve lost much, I still hope for a better future.

3

My name is Mike (fictitious name), and I grew up in Toronto. Life started falling apart when I was 14, the year my father lost his job. Despite trying hard, he couldn’t find another one, and our family quickly spiraled into financial hardship. Things became incredibly difficult, and we struggled just to get by.

With no money and no stability, I ended up leaving high school before I could finish my studies. I wanted to help out and take the burden off my dad, but there wasn’t much I could do. Then, my mother fell seriously ill. Watching her suffer and eventually lose her battle with illness broke both my father and me. After she passed away, life got even harder.

Without her, we lost what little sense of home we had left, and eventually, my father and I ended up homeless. With no clear path forward, I started drinking to cope with the pain and the difficulties we faced every day. It became a habit that only worsened over time.

Now, I find myself caught in a cycle of homelessness and alcohol addiction. It’s not the life I ever imagined, but I’m still trying to find a way through the challenges.

4

My name is John (fictitious name), and I was born and raised in Toronto. My father worked as a truck driver for international transit, always on the road. He was the hardest worker I knew, but when I was still young, he died in a tragic car accident. His sudden death left a huge void in my life.

After my father’s passing, my mother remarried a man I didn’t get along with. This “godfather” treated me poorly, and home quickly became a place filled with conflict and discomfort. His bad behavior and constant pressure pushed me further away, and I began to distance myself from my family.

By my teenage years, I couldn’t take it anymore and decided to leave home. Life on the streets wasn’t easy, and I started using drugs as a way to cope with the pain and isolation I felt. I thought it was an escape, but it only led me down a darker path. Addiction quickly took over, and before I knew it, I had nowhere to turn.

Now, I find myself homeless, trapped in a cycle I never imagined I would be in. Though it’s been tough, I still hold onto hope that one day I’ll be able to turn things around and find a way out of this situation.

5

My name is Athena (fictitious name), and I was born in Greece. You might notice a little Greek accent in my voice, and sometimes I mix in a few Greek words when I speak. Life has not been easy for me. My parents got divorced when I was just 7 years old, and it left a deep mark on me. I spent my childhood moving between their homes, living with each one every other week. It was tough, and I was always sad about the separation.

When I turned 18, I started working at a local clothing store. It was a way to stay busy and support myself, but the sadness from my childhood never really went away. After a couple of years, things took a turn for the worse. I was struggling with depression and couldn’t keep up with work. Eventually, I lost my job, and without that steady income, I ended up on the streets, homeless.

Being in this situation has been incredibly hard, but I try to keep going. I still hold hope that one day, I’ll find a way to rebuild my life.

6

I am Jack (fictitious name), and I come from a family of average income and lifestyle. We weren’t rich, but we always had enough to get by. I was the first in my family to go to university, and that was supposed to be a big step forward. But once I got there, things didn’t go as planned. The courses were harder than I expected, and I quickly lost my confidence. No matter how hard I tried, I felt like I just couldn’t keep up. By my second year, the pressure became too much, and I made the difficult decision to leave university.

After that, I started working in a restaurant as a dishwasher to cover my living expenses. It was a big shift—from being a university student with hopes of a better future to scraping by in an entry-level job. That gap between where I was and where I thought I should be really hit me hard. I became deeply depressed, and eventually, I lost that job too.

With no income and no support, I ended up on the streets, homeless. It’s been a tough road, and every day is a challenge, but I’m still here, trying to find my way back.

7

My name is Mary (fictitious name), and my life took a turn I never expected. I used to work in a restaurant, earning just enough to get by. My husband was struggling with addiction, and life at home was already difficult, but the real blow came when our 6-year-old son was diagnosed with blood cancer. Watching him suffer and eventually losing him was the most unbearable pain I have ever experienced. After he passed, the grief and depression were overwhelming.

I felt like I couldn’t cope with the loss, and I started using drugs to numb the pain. It quickly spiraled out of control, and soon after, I lost my job. With no income and my own struggles with addiction, my marriage fell apart, and my husband and I separated.

Now, I find myself homeless in Toronto, trying to survive day by day. The road has been rough, and I often think about my son and the life I used to have. I never thought I’d be in this situation, but I’m still here, hoping to find some way out of the darkness.

8

My name is Moetaz (fictitious name), and I come from the Middle East. I speak with an Arabic accent, and sometimes, I find myself using Arabic expressions and proverbs—it’s a way of staying connected to my roots. I was once a university student, full of hopes and dreams for the future. In my second year, I fell deeply in love with one of my classmates. She became my world, and I did everything I could to win her heart.

But by the third year of my studies, I found out that she loved someone else. That realization crushed me. I felt lost, and the pain of unrequited love was too much to bear. I fell into a deep depression, which grew worse with each passing day. My academic performance suffered, and I struggled to find motivation in anything.

Eventually, I couldn’t keep up with my studies, and I made the difficult decision to leave university. With no direction or support, I drifted further away from my old life and became homeless here in Toronto. Every day is a struggle, but I hold on to the memories of the person I used to be, hoping that one day I can find my way back.

9

I am Niaz (fictitious name), and my age is 50. Many years ago, I married a man who was 20 years older than me. After our marriage, we immigrated to Canada, hoping for a better life. Things were peaceful for a while, but four years ago, my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. His condition worsened quickly, and soon after, he had to be moved to a home for the elderly, where he could receive the care he needed.

Since then, life has taken a difficult turn for me. Without my husband by my side, I found myself alone and struggling. My biggest challenge has been the language barrier—I never became proficient in English, and that made it almost impossible to find a stable job. Despite my best efforts to support myself, I couldn’t make ends meet.

As the bills piled up and my financial situation worsened, I eventually became homeless. Now, I am living on the streets of Toronto, trying to navigate each day as best as I can. The challenges I face are immense, but I hold on to the hope that things can change for the better with the right support.

10

My name is Derek (fictitious name), and I’m currently navigating life without a permanent home in Toronto. Originally from a small town, I moved to this vibrant city with hopes of building a better future. Unfortunately, a series of personal and financial challenges have led me to where I am today.

In my earlier years, I worked in construction, a trade I learned from my father. I take pride in my ability to work with my hands, building and repairing things. However, a workplace injury, followed by the loss of my job, spiraled into financial instability. Without a safety net, I found myself unable to afford housing.

Despite these hardships, I remain hopeful. I spend my days volunteering at local shelters, helping others in need, and maintaining a positive outlook on life. I’ve learned that life is unpredictable, but also that kindness and community can be found even in the most challenging times. My goal is to regain stability, find steady work again, and secure a place to call home. I’m determined to turn my life around, and I believe that with hard work and support, I can achieve that.

11

My name is Hamid (fictitious name), and I am 25 years old. I came to Toronto from the Middle East with high hopes and dreams of building a better future for myself. I enrolled in university here, excited to pursue my studies and make my family proud. For the first two years, things went well. I worked hard and stayed focused.

However, things changed when my parents back home could no longer afford to support me financially. This unexpected turn brought a lot of stress and pressure. Feeling isolated and overwhelmed, I slowly fell into depression. To numb the pain, I started using weed and alcohol, which only made things worse. What began as a coping mechanism quickly spiraled out of control.

Unable to manage my studies and struggling with addiction, I eventually dropped out of university. Without a degree or financial stability, I found myself lost and without options. My life took a downward turn, and before I knew it, I was homeless in Toronto, far from the life I once envisioned. Despite my situation, I still carry hope that one day I can turn things around and rebuild my life.

12

My name is Ryan (fictitious name), and I’m 31 years old. I used to run a small, local barbershop, which was my pride and joy. For years, it allowed me to provide for my family and connect with my community. Everything changed when COVID-19 hit. Like so many others, my business was severely impacted by the lockdowns. Each day became harder, and despite my best efforts, I couldn’t keep up with the mounting expenses.

After the pandemic, things didn’t improve. Clients didn’t return, and my income dwindled. I struggled to support my family, and the stress weighed heavily on my marriage. My wife and I eventually divorced, which was a devastating blow. The pain and pressure of losing both my business and my family led me into a deep depression.

Without my shop or the stability of a home life, I felt lost. I tried to get back on my feet, but things only seemed to spiral further out of control. The depression became too much to bear, and I ended up homeless in Toronto. Despite everything, I still carry a hope that one day I’ll be able to rebuild what I’ve lost and find stability again.

13

I once had a stable life back home; with assets I had worked hard to accumulate over the years. My ex-wife, whom I trusted deeply, moved to Canada a couple of years ago. While she was there, I gave her power of attorney to manage our affairs. Little did I know, she had devised a plan to take everything from me. Using the power of attorney, she transferred all my assets into her name, leaving me with nothing.

After she secured everything back home, she invited me to join her in Canada, hoping to start fresh. I arrived in Toronto with a sense of hope, thinking we were rebuilding our lives together. However, only a few months after my landing, she filed for divorce, leaving me completely blindsided. In one swift move, I lost everything—both in Canada and in my home country.

With no assets, no job, and no family to turn to, I found myself on the streets of Toronto. The betrayal left me devastated, and without a way to recover financially, I became homeless. Despite everything, I still hold onto the hope that one day I will find a way to regain my footing.

— Homeless Man

14

My name is Niki, and my life was turned upside down when my husband betrayed me. The pain of discovering his infidelity was more than I could bear. It felt like my entire world had shattered, and I didn’t know how to cope with the heartbreak.

In an attempt to numb the overwhelming pain, I turned to drugs. What started as a way to escape the emotional turmoil soon spiraled into an addiction that took over my life. My depression worsened, and I found it harder and harder to function. Eventually, I lost my job at the convenience store, the only source of income I had left.

Without a job and with my addiction controlling my every move, I couldn’t maintain my life as it was. The bills piled up, and soon, I found myself with nowhere to go. I became homeless, living on the streets of Toronto, trying to survive day by day. The weight of my situation is heavy, but I haven’t lost hope that I can one day rebuild my life.

The road ahead is unclear, but I’m holding on to the belief that I can overcome this. I just need a chance to start over.

15

I grew up in an orphanage, never knowing my parents or where I came from. The feeling of not having a family always weighed heavily on me. As I got older, the unanswered questions about my past became a constant source of sadness and frustration. I wondered why I was abandoned, who my parents were, and what my life might have been like if things had been different.

The loneliness and confusion I felt led me down a dark path. I turned to alcohol to escape the pain, hoping it would fill the void inside me. But instead of easing my suffering, it only made things worse. I lost control of my life, and my addiction grew stronger with each passing day.

Eventually, I couldn’t keep a steady job, and I had nowhere to live. The orphanage that once provided me shelter was long behind me, and I had no one to turn to. Now, I find myself homeless on the streets of Toronto, struggling to survive and make sense of the life I’ve been dealt.

I don’t know what the future holds, but I still hope that one day I’ll find a way to rebuild my life and leave this chapter behind. — Young Man

16

In August 2016, I sold our matrimonial house, hoping to upsize and improve our family’s lifestyle. It felt like the right move at the time, with dreams of giving my family a better future. But the real estate market skyrocketed soon after, and we found ourselves unable to afford anything similar to what we had before selling. The stress and disappointment began to take a toll on our relationship.

My wife and I grew distant, the warmth of our partnership slowly fading. In an attempt to escape the pressure and frustration, I made some poor decisions. I turned to gambling, convinced I could recover our losses and restore what we had. Instead, I lost what little remained of the money from the sale.

The strain of our financial downfall was too much, and eventually, my wife filed for divorce. I lost not only my family but also my home and any sense of stability. With nothing left, I found myself on the streets of Toronto, trying to piece together a life that had once held so much promise.

Now, I live with the consequences of my mistakes, homeless and searching for a way to rebuild.

— The Man

17

My name is Alex (fictitious name), and I was born into a poor family where life was always a struggle. From an early age, I felt the weight of our circumstances and developed an aggressive and quarrelsome nature. I didn’t mean to push people away, but it seemed like every time I tried to connect with someone, I ended up in a fight or disagreement.

Throughout my school years, I tried to make friends, but my anger and frustration often got the best of me. I felt isolated, like I didn’t belong anywhere. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t seem to form the kind of friendships that would have given me some stability.

As I grew older, this pattern continued. Without a support system and without anyone to turn to, I found it increasingly difficult to maintain any sense of stability. Eventually, I couldn’t keep up with life’s demands, and I lost whatever little I had.

Now, I find myself homeless on the streets of Toronto, a life shaped by anger and loneliness, searching for a way to move forward. It’s hard to see a way out when you’ve spent so long fighting against everything, including yourself.

18

My name is Naila (fictitious name), and my life took a difficult turn when I was just a child. My sister, who was only a baby at the time, died from heart failure. Losing her shattered my spirit, and from that moment on, I felt like a part of me was missing. I was too young to fully understand what had happened, but the sadness stayed with me, growing deeper as I got older.

As I entered my teenage years, the weight of that loss became unbearable. I found myself sinking into a deep depression that I couldn’t escape. I felt isolated and broken, and no matter what I did, I couldn’t shake the overwhelming sense of grief that lingered from my sister’s passing.

As I reached young adulthood, things didn’t improve. My depression only worsened, making it impossible for me to maintain a stable life. Eventually, I lost my way and ended up on the streets of Toronto, homeless and without direction.

Now, I carry the weight of my past with me, still trying to find peace, but it’s difficult when the sadness feels so permanent. I’m just hoping that someday, I can heal from the pain that’s defined my life.

19

My name is Dorothy (fictitious name), and I was the oldest of seven children. Growing up in a large family, you’d think there would always be someone to lean on, but I always felt alone. With six younger brothers and sisters, my parents were constantly busy and barely had time for me. Their attention was elsewhere, and I was left to figure things out on my own.

From a young age, I felt isolated. While my siblings had each other, I was the quiet one, often overlooked and left out. The lack of connection with my parents made me withdraw even further into myself. I didn’t know how to ask for help or reach out, and as the years went by, the feeling of isolation only grew stronger.

By the time I reached young adulthood, I had no close relationships and felt disconnected from the world. I struggled to find my place, and without support, I couldn’t hold on to a steady life. Eventually, I ended up homeless in Toronto, wandering the streets with no real direction or hope.

Now, I live day by day, still feeling the effects of a childhood spent in isolation. I’ve learned to survive, but deep down, I still long for the connection I never had.

20

My name is Hannah (fictitious name), and my story goes back to my school days. When I was a student, I was often mocked by my classmates. They would call me names, telling me I was fat and ugly, and those words stayed with me. Over time, I started to believe them.

The constant teasing led me to withdraw from others. I felt ashamed of myself and isolated from everyone around me. Friendships were hard to form, and I eventually became more and more alone. The isolation grew as I moved into young adulthood, and I struggled to find my place in the world.

I didn’t have the confidence to pursue opportunities or connect with others, and my loneliness deepened. Without any support or close relationships, I found myself homeless in Toronto, living on the streets and trying to survive.

Now, I’m navigating life day by day, reflecting on how my early experiences of being mocked and isolated shaped the person I’ve become. Despite the hardships, I still hold on to the hope that one day things might change for the better.

21 Name: Sara (fictitious)

I moved to Toronto from a small town in Quebec, full of hope for new opportunities. After finishing high school, I took up odd jobs to make ends meet. Unfortunately, my financial situation worsened when I lost my job as a cashier. Rent in the city was too high, and despite my best efforts to find work, I couldn’t keep up. Soon, I had no choice but to move out and sleep in shelters. Every day is a battle, but I hold on to the hope of finding stable work and rebuilding my life.

22 Name: Kim (fictitious)

I used to work as a hairstylist, a job I was proud of because I loved making people feel good about themselves. My clients were like family, and I felt like I had a stable future ahead of me. Then, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the salon I worked for shut down, and I lost my only source of income. I tried to find work elsewhere, but the job market was tough, and as the months went by, I started to fall behind on rent. The stress of being out of work, combined with the isolation of the lockdowns, took a toll on my mental health. I struggled to keep things together, and eventually, I was evicted from my apartment.

I’ve been homeless for almost a year now, living in shelters or couch-surfing when I can. The uncertainty of not knowing where I’ll sleep next weighs heavily on me, but I still have hope. I want to rebuild my career, and one day, open my own salon where I can provide both hair services and a safe, welcoming space for people who need it. For now, I’m just trying to get back on my feet and find stable housing, so I can begin to heal from this difficult chapter in my life.

23 Name: Omar (fictitious)

I arrived in Canada seeking asylum from a war-torn country. My English was limited, and though I applied for countless jobs, I struggled to find employment. My refugee claim was delayed, and without income or support, I couldn’t afford housing. I became homeless in Toronto, navigating shelters and trying to improve my English while waiting for my claim to be processed.

24 Name: Tariq (fictitious)

I moved to Toronto from Syria six years ago, seeking refuge from the war that tore my country apart. My family didn’t have much, but we were able to scrape together enough money to send me to Canada, hoping that I could find a better life. I arrived with high hopes, ready to work hard and build a future. However, the reality of being a refugee in a foreign country was more difficult than I expected. The language barrier was challenging, and finding work without Canadian experience or references felt almost impossible. I took on odd jobs—cleaning, construction, anything I could find—but it was never enough to cover rent in Toronto.

Over time, the stress of trying to make ends meet wore me down. Without enough money for housing, I found myself living in shelters, and sometimes on the streets. I’m doing my best to improve my English and build connections, but it’s hard when every day feels like survival mode. Despite everything, I haven’t given up. I believe in the future I came here to find, and I’m determined to keep working toward it, no matter how long it takes.

25 Name: Chloe (fictitious)

Growing up in an abusive household, I left home at 17, hoping to find safety. I found a temporary job in retail but was let go when the company downsized. Without savings or family support, I couldn’t afford rent. Now, I live on the streets, trying to find shelter and safety from the dangers I fled in the first place. I dream of finding a job and returning to school one day.

26 Name: Elena (fictitious)

I was 20 when I came to Toronto, full of excitement and hope for a fresh start. I was accepted into a university program for graphic design, and I couldn’t wait to begin. But during my second year, my father, who had been supporting me financially, lost his job. Suddenly, I was on my own, trying to balance school, work, and paying rent. I took on as many part-time jobs as I could, but with rent prices in the city so high, it wasn’t enough. I began to fall behind on payments, and the stress of managing everything took a toll on my health.

Eventually, I had to drop out of school. Without my student loans or financial aid, I couldn’t afford to stay in my apartment. I moved into a shelter, but the instability made it difficult to focus on finding a job or getting back into school. Every day is a struggle, but I hold on to the hope that I can finish my degree and get back on the path I started. Graphic design is still my passion, and I believe I can make a life for myself once I find the stability I need.

27 Name: David (fictitious)

After losing my job as a construction worker due to a back injury, things spiraled out of control. I used up my savings on medical bills and rent, but with no work and the pain worsening, I couldn’t keep up with expenses. I lost my apartment and now rely on temporary shelters while trying to figure out how to move forward without the career I spent years building.

28 Name: Luis (fictitious)

I came to Canada from Mexico when I was 25, hoping to start a new life. I found work in construction and quickly built a reputation as a reliable, hard worker. For a few years, things were going well—I had a steady income, a small apartment, and dreams of starting my own business one day. But everything changed after an accident on the job left me with a severe injury. I couldn’t work for months, and the medical bills, combined with the lack of income, drained my savings. Without money to pay rent, I was eventually evicted from my apartment.

Since then, I’ve been living on the streets, trying to find work where I can and get back on my feet. But with my injury still affecting me, it’s been difficult to find steady work. I dream of going back to construction or maybe even starting my own business someday, but right now, my focus is just on survival. I’m determined not to give up, and I’m grateful for the small acts of kindness I’ve received from strangers along the way.

29 Name: Angela (fictitious)

I was married for 25 years, but after a bitter divorce, I was left with little financial support. My husband kept the house, and I had no savings of my own. I tried staying with friends, but after a while, I had nowhere else to go. Now, I’m homeless, and at 50, it feels like starting life over again. I’m still hopeful I can find stability and work in this new chapter.

30 Name: Nina (fictitious)

I grew up in Toronto, in a neighborhood that was full of life and community. My parents were loving but struggled financially. I was the oldest of four, and as soon as I was able, I started working to help support my family. By the time I was 18, I was working full-time at a grocery store, trying to balance paying rent for a small apartment and sending money home to my parents. It was hard, but I felt proud that I was able to help my family.

Then the pandemic hit, and everything fell apart. I lost my job, and without any savings to fall back on, I quickly fell behind on rent. I tried to find other work, but the job market was tough, and soon I was evicted from my apartment. Now, I’m living in a shelter, trying to figure out how to move forward. I want to go back to school and get a degree in social work, so I can help others who are struggling like I am, but for now, I’m focused on surviving day by day.

31 Name: Ivan (fictitious)

I came to Toronto with big dreams of becoming a chef. After working in kitchens for years, I lost my job when the restaurant I worked for shut down due to financial trouble. I lived paycheck to paycheck, and with no job, I couldn’t afford rent. I’ve been homeless for six months now, but I still dream of one day opening my own restaurant.

32 Name: Amir (fictitious)

I came to Canada with my family when I was a teenager, fleeing persecution in our home country. We didn’t have much, but we were hopeful that we could build a new life in Toronto. My parents worked hard to provide for us, but as I got older, I started to struggle with the pressure of fitting in and adapting to a new culture. I began drinking and using drugs as a way to cope with the stress and isolation I felt.

By the time I was in my early twenties, my addiction had taken over my life. I lost my job, my apartment, and eventually, my relationship with my family. I’ve been homeless for two years now, living in shelters and trying to get clean. I know that I need help, and I want to rebuild my life, but the road to recovery feels long and difficult. I still believe that I can turn things around, but I know it’s going to take time.

33 Name: Naomi (fictitious)

I used to work as a receptionist, but when my mother fell ill, I had to quit my job to take care of her full-time. After she passed away, I was left with nothing—no job, no savings, and no home. I found myself living in a shelter, trying to recover emotionally while figuring out how to start over.

34 Name: Lydia (fictitious)

I was married for ten years, and for most of that time, things were good. My husband and I owned a small house in Scarborough, and we were planning to start a family. But after a few years, our relationship started to fall apart. We fought constantly, and eventually, we divorced. I kept the house, but without my husband’s income, I couldn’t afford the mortgage on my own. I fell behind on payments, and eventually, the bank foreclosed on the house.

Since then, I’ve been homeless, moving from shelter to shelter, trying to figure out how to rebuild my life. The hardest part has been the loneliness—I’ve lost touch with most of my friends, and I feel like I’m starting over from scratch. But I’m determined to find stability again, and I’m looking for work so I can get back on my feet.

35 Name: Ben (fictitious)

I lost my job during the pandemic and couldn’t find another one in my field. My unemployment benefits ran out, and I couldn’t pay my rent. I was evicted from my apartment and had to live out of my car for a while before it was repossessed. Now, I’m trying to find work, but it’s hard when you don’t even have a stable place to sleep.

36 Name: Marcus (fictitious)

I grew up in Toronto in a middle-class family. I was always a good student and had big dreams of becoming a lawyer. After high school, I got into a good university, but the pressure of school and family expectations started to weigh on me. I developed severe anxiety and began using alcohol and drugs to cope. My grades started to slip, and eventually, I dropped out of school. Without a degree, it was hard to find steady work, and I fell into a deep depression.

Over the next few years, I drifted from job to job, unable to find anything that felt meaningful. I started using drugs more heavily, and eventually, I lost my apartment and ended up on the streets. I’ve been homeless for nearly a year now, and I’m trying to find a way out. I still want to go back to school one day, but right now, I’m focused on getting clean and finding stable housing.

37 Name: Leila (fictitious)

I was a stay-at-home mom for years, raising my two kids. After my divorce, I couldn’t find a job fast enough to pay the bills, and my ex-husband wasn’t consistent with child support. I lost our apartment and had to send my kids to live with relatives while I look for a job and a new place to stay. Being apart from them is the hardest part.

38 Name: Natalie (fictitious)

I moved to Toronto when I was 20, hoping to start a new life. I found work as a waitress and was able to rent a small apartment. Things were going well until I was laid off from my job. I struggled to find another one, and with rent prices so high, I quickly fell behind on payments. I was evicted from my apartment and ended up living in a shelter.

Being homeless has been incredibly difficult, but I’m determined to get back on my feet. I’ve been looking for work and trying to save up enough money to rent a new place. My dream is to one day go back to school and become a teacher, but for now, I’m focused on finding stability.

39 Name: Gabriel (fictitious)

I was a university student with a bright future in law. However, the stress of school and personal issues led me down a dark path of substance abuse. I dropped out, lost my apartment, and became homeless. Now, I’m working hard to get clean and find a way to return to school, but the road is long and filled with setbacks.

40 Name: Jason (fictitious)

I was a truck driver for 15 years, driving across Canada and the US. I loved the freedom of the open road, but the job was hard on my health. I developed chronic back pain and eventually had to stop working. Without a steady income, I quickly fell behind on bills and rent. I tried to apply for disability benefits, but the process was slow, and I was evicted from my apartment before I could get any help.

I’ve been homeless for nearly a year now, living in my truck and trying to make ends meet. I’m still waiting for my disability benefits to be approved, and in the meantime, I’m trying to find work that I can manage with my back pain. It’s been tough, but I’m hopeful that things will turn around soon.

41 Name: Jasmine (fictitious)

I moved to Toronto to escape a toxic relationship, thinking a fresh start would help me heal. I had no family support and only a small amount of savings, but I was determined to make it work. I took up part-time jobs, mostly in restaurants and retail, but it wasn’t enough to cover my rent. After losing my last job due to company downsizing, I quickly fell behind on payments. Within months, I was evicted and had no choice but to couch-surf at friends’ places. When that option ran out, I moved into a shelter. Homelessness wasn’t something I ever thought I would experience, and it’s been a humbling and difficult journey. But I’m still hopeful. I’ve been applying for jobs and exploring training programs to improve my skills. My ultimate goal is to find stable housing and create a life where I can feel secure again.

42 Name: Leon (fictitious)

After spending a few years in prison, I was released and determined to turn my life around. I wanted to reintegrate into society and work hard, but the stigma of my criminal record followed me everywhere. Despite applying to hundreds of jobs, I kept getting rejected, often without explanation. Without employment or family support, I had nowhere to go, and I soon found myself homeless. I’ve been staying in shelters and trying to make the most of social services, but it’s tough when you feel like society has already given up on you. I stay focused on staying sober and out of trouble. I’m currently working with an employment counselor, trying to find any opportunity that will give me a second chance. I still believe I can build a better life, but it’s hard to keep hope alive when you’re struggling to survive day by day.

43 Name: Fatima (fictitious)

I fled my abusive husband with my two children, leaving behind everything we knew. At first, we stayed with friends, but as time went on, it became clear that we needed more stable housing. I tried to find work, but my limited English and lack of formal education made it difficult to get hired. Without a job, I couldn’t afford rent, and we ended up moving into a women’s shelter. The shelter has been a safe place for my kids and me, but the uncertainty is exhausting. I wake up every day determined to give my children the stability they deserve, but it’s hard when you’re constantly worrying about where you’ll live next. I’ve been taking English classes and attending workshops to help me find employment. My dream is to one day work in a community center helping other women like me rebuild their lives. Until then, I’m doing my best to stay hopeful for my kids.

44 Name: Max (fictitious)

Music has always been my passion. I worked as a full-time musician for several years, playing gigs at bars and events across Toronto. I wasn’t making a fortune, but it was enough to get by. Then the pandemic hit, and live music dried up completely. Without performances, I had no income and quickly fell behind on my rent. Eventually, I was evicted from my apartment. I lived in my car for a while, but when I could no longer afford the payments, it was repossessed. Since then, I’ve been staying in shelters and sometimes crashing with friends when they have space. The hardest part is not having a place to store my instruments. They were my livelihood, and now they’re locked up in storage. Despite everything, I’m still hopeful that I can get back on my feet. I’m looking for part-time work while also trying to line up gigs as venues reopen. My dream is to keep playing music and one day have my own place again.

45 Name: Max (fictitious)

When I came out as a lesbian, my family disowned me. At just 19, I was left without support or a place to stay. I stayed with friends for as long as I could, but eventually, I ended up on the streets. Living in a shelter has been my only option for the past year. It’s been an incredibly difficult and isolating experience, especially when I think about how I lost my family simply for being myself. I’ve tried to find work, but without a stable address and with the ongoing discrimination I face, it’s been tough. Still, I’m not giving up. I’m determined to build a future where I don’t have to rely on anyone for my survival. I’ve been saving every penny I make from small jobs here and there, hoping to eventually afford a room of my own. I also want to help other LGBTQ+ youth who find themselves homeless, just like me.

46 Name: Luis (fictitious)

I spent over 20 years working as a taxi driver, providing for my family and living a simple life. When ride-sharing services started taking over, I lost a lot of my regular business. Soon, I couldn’t afford the car payments or the high cost of living in Toronto. I was evicted from my apartment last year and have been homeless ever since. Being in my late 50s and competing with younger drivers in the gig economy makes it hard to find steady work. I’ve applied to numerous jobs, but the rejections have been tough to handle. I’m staying in shelters while looking for part-time work, but it’s a long road. My dream is to find stable housing and hopefully return to driving, even if it’s just part-time. I miss the connection with passengers and the feeling of contributing to my community.

47 Name: Amanda (fictitious)

I grew up in a working-class family where money was always tight. At 16, I dropped out of high school to help my mom, who was struggling to make ends meet. I found jobs in retail and fast food, but after my mom passed away unexpectedly, everything fell apart. I couldn’t afford to keep our apartment, and without any savings or family support, I quickly found myself on the streets. I’ve been homeless for several months now, moving between shelters and trying to figure out my next steps. I’ve always wanted to go back to school, but right now, my focus is on surviving each day. I’m saving up for a GED program, hoping that getting my diploma will open more doors for me. I believe that education is my way out, but it’s hard to stay motivated when you’re constantly worrying about where your next meal will come from.

48 Name: Greg (fictitious)

Losing my wife was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced. We had been married for 20 years when she passed away from cancer, and after her death, I fell into a deep depression. I started drinking heavily to numb the pain, and it didn’t take long for my life to spiral out of control. I lost my job as a warehouse worker, then my apartment, and eventually, I found myself on the streets. It’s been two years since I became homeless, and I’m still struggling to get my life back on track. I’ve been working with a counselor to address my addiction, and I’m attending AA meetings regularly. The road to recovery is long, but I’m determined to stay sober and find a way to rebuild my life. My goal is to find a stable job and secure housing, so I can honor my wife’s memory by living the life we had always dreamed of.

49 Name: Ellie (fictitious)

I’ve always loved working with children, so becoming a nanny was a natural fit for me. For years, I worked with different families, building strong relationships with the kids I cared for. But when the last family I worked for moved out of the city, I struggled to find new clients. The childcare industry became more competitive, and without a steady income, I soon fell behind on my rent. I was evicted from my apartment last year and have been staying in shelters ever since. I miss working with children and the joy they brought into my life, but it’s been hard to find steady work while dealing with homelessness. I’m currently attending workshops and job fairs, hoping to find a new family to work for. My dream is to one day open my own childcare center, where I can provide a safe and nurturing environment for kids in need.

50 Name: Amir (fictitious)

I came to Canada with my family as a refugee, seeking a better life after fleeing violence in our home country. I was just a teenager when we arrived, and while my parents worked hard to provide for us, it was a struggle to adapt to life in a new country. After high school, I found odd jobs in construction, but I could never secure anything permanent. The stress of trying to support myself, along with language barriers and the trauma from my past, eventually led to a mental health crisis. I lost my job and became homeless shortly after. I’ve been living in shelters for the past year, doing my best to improve my English and find stable employment. Despite the setbacks, I remain hopeful that I can rebuild my life. My goal is to get back on my feet and eventually give back to the refugee community by helping others who are facing the same challenges I did when I first arrived in Canada.

Conclusion

After reviewing 100+ stories of individuals currently experiencing homelessness, I have outlined the key contributing factors. The common reasons for becoming homeless include a combination of personal, financial, social, and health-related challenges. Below is a summary of the primary causes:

Substance Abuse: Many individuals fell into addiction as a result of coping with trauma, depression, or personal loss. Drugs and alcohol played a significant role in perpetuating their homelessness.
Family Conflict and Loss: Domestic conflicts, the loss of a parent, divorce, or strained family relationships led to a sense of isolation and, eventually, homelessness.
Mental Health Struggles: Depression, trauma, and other untreated mental health conditions drove some individuals to homelessness, with many reporting they lacked access to proper support.
Financial Instability: A sudden job loss, workplace injury, or economic downturn (e.g., COVID-19) resulted in financial ruin, leading to an inability to afford housing.
Relationship Breakdown: Infidelity, divorce, and toxic relationships led to the breakdown of family structures and contributed to the financial strain.
Immigration and Language Barriers: For some, relocating to Canada resulted in isolation due to the language barrier, making it difficult to secure stable employment.
Gambling and Poor Financial Decisions: Some individuals lost their savings or assets due to gambling or ill-advised financial decisions.

The interconnectedness of these issues highlights the complexity of homelessness and the necessity for holistic support systems.

About Me

Negar Nasrkhani

I’m Negar Nasrkhani, and I’ve always believed that every story has the power to ignite change. After witnessing the heartbreaking rise of homelessness in Toronto, I felt compelled to dig deeper. Through countless conversations, I discovered the strength, struggles, and humanity in those often unseen by society.
Over the past year, I’ve interviewed over 100 homeless individuals, not just to document their experiences but to amplify their voices. I’ve transcribed 20 powerful and compassionate stories, bringing their realities to the forefront of my mission. These stories have been shared with local leaders, including the MP and Mayor, in a relentless effort to seek solutions and shine a light on the systemic causes of poverty.
This project is about more than just storytelling—it’s about understanding, advocacy, and driving meaningful change in our city. Together, we can combat poverty, uplift those in need, and build a community that doesn’t leave anyone behind.