Toque sales help battle youth homelessness

YorkRegion.com
January 23, 2014
By Chris Traber

Considering York Region’s recent deep freeze, 360°kids’ Raising the Roof toque campaign couldn’t be more timely.

From Dec. 3 to National Toque Tuesday Feb. 4, toques are being offered for a $10 donation to help end youth homelessness in York Region.

All proceeds raised go to programs and services that benefit homeless youths in the region.

York Region council is on board, with members donning the headgear as endorsement Jan 23.

If you think youth homelessness isn’t a problem in York Region, 360°kids, formerly known as Pathways for Children, Youth and Families of York Region, said you may be surprised by the facts.

There are 300 homeless youths in our communities at any given time.

You may not see them, but youths are living on the streets, in parks and abandoned buildings, couch surfing and getting by in other temporary accommodation. 

A purchased toque makes a big difference, 360°kids resource development associate Brittany Wilson said.

One toque translates into three bus tokens or two hot meals for a youth. Ten toques means one week’s enrolment in a life skills or apprenticeship program. Thirty-five toques can finance a year’s worth of support for youth in drop-in centers. Two hundred toques underwrites one month in a workplace mentorship program or a traditional housing facility.

Buying a toque today changes a life tomorrow, Ms Wilson said.

There are many ways to pledge your support.

You can buy a stylish toque for $10 or double up, buying one for yourself and one to donate back to 360°kids to give it to a youth in need.

You can also get your company, sports league or special interest group involved and sell toques on 360°kids’ behalf.

Student groups can sell toques or volunteer to help on Toque Tuesday and qualify for credit toward their high school volunteer hours.

As the non-profit agency said, “Toque-gether, we can make a difference.”