Finding our way home: Exploring the experiences of young people who have ‘aged out’ of care and experienced homelessness in Canada

Studies have shown that youth exiting care are drastically overrepresented in the homelessness population. Few studies, however, have explored the experiences of homelessness of young people after they have exited care using participatory methods. This study explores youth’s experiences during and after their placements in the child welfare system, their experiences with homelessness, and the factors that contributed to vulnerability or resilience. Eight youth co-researchers were engaged in this study between the ages 18-25 residing in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, with both child welfare and homelessness experience. A Participatory Action Research (PAR) methodology using photovoice was used in this phenomenological study. Session transcripts and photographs were thematically analyzed to identify common themes. Three thematic categories emerged: (1) protective factors; (2) dual protective and risk factors; (3) risk factors. Six participants were employed while experiencing homelessness. Community apathy was identified as a significant risk factor by most youth co-researchers. Half identified unsuitable foster care placements as contributors to homelessness. All disclosed that their social workers changed frequently and were unsupportive while they were in care and/or during their transition to adulthood. Protective factors included hope, self-care and community supports, including individuals in youth’s lives described as “champions” who took an interest in the youth’s life and advocated on their behalf. Findings from this study provide a nuanced and youth-centred exploration of both the risk and protective factors that contribute to young people’s trajectories from the child welfare system into (and out of) homelessness. • First Eastern Canada qualitative PAR photovoice study with homeless youth from care • Phenomenological study included collaborative thematic data analysis with youth • Unsuitable foster placements and inconsistent workers may lead to youth homelessness • Majority of experienced homelessness despite being employed • Community-based mentors integral to youth obtaining supports and housing stability