“Quincy”
There is a crisis in Toronto. Our youth are at the center of it.
When systems fail, we empower youth to take control of their own future.
It’s a dangerous time to be a young person in Toronto. Systemic racism, stigma, and the surging fentanyl crisis can make a brighter future feel impossible. In the face of all this, one frontline worker isn’t done fighting; in this episode, they share exactly why.
Harm reduction initiatives, paired with the growing impact of the Success Accelerator program, are rewriting futures. We’re proof that when you treat youth like humans—not problems—you can change lives.
“The biggest challenge [for these youth] is just to be heard as a human being.”
Did you know?
In Ontario, it is estimated that approximately 10% of the population use substances problematically.
— Canadian Mental Health Association, 2024 (1)
Opioid deaths among youth aged 15 to 24 surged to 169 deaths during the first year of the pandemic, up from 115 the year before.
— Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, 2023 (2)
There’s still time to help
Your donation helps more youth like Tristan, Alisha & Star get what they need: care, tools, and a chance to rise.
Get to know other Voices of Resilience
Shaniqua
"Quincy"
Alisha
Star
Toni
Tristan
At The Local Charity, we focus on three key pillars that empower youth to transform their lives from within.
Mental Health
Empowerment begins with the mind. We strive to equip youth with positive and resilient mindsets to lead fulfilling lives.
Essential Life Skills
Essential Life Skills form the foundation of success. With the right practical tools, we enable youth to unleash their full potential.
Technology
In a digital world, access to technology is crucial. By providing access to computers and the Internet, we offer youth a stepping stone to success.
The Success Accelerator is TLC’s core program. It helps youth build stability, confidence, and leadership through mentorship, listening, and practical tools.
(1) Canadian Mental Health Association. (n.d.). Substance use and addiction. Canadian Mental Health Association. https://ontario.cmha.ca/addiction-and-substance-use-and-addiction/
(2) The Ontario Drug Policy Research Network Opioid Toxicity and Access to Treatment among Adolescents and Young Adults in Ontario. (2023). https://odprn.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Opioids-among-Adolescents-and-Young-Adults-Report.pdf