Alisha
Abuse and trauma leave lasting scars. But scars don’t have to define a lifetime.
With the right support, youth can rise above their circumstances.
Alisha grew up in an emotionally and physically abusive environment. For years, her voice didn’t feel like it mattered. Later, she and her family lived in a shelter for four years. It could have crushed her.
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Instead, with therapy, mentorship, and the support of the Success Accelerator, Alisha slowly stepped back into her voice. She graduated university and now dreams of a future in human rights advocacy.
“It wasn’t just physical abuse. It was emotional too … I think I’m naturally anxious because of everything I’ve lived through.”
Did you know?
There are 80,000 people on the wait-list for subsidized housing; the shelters are full every night; encampments have become a widespread reality across Toronto.
— Toronto Star, 2022 (1)
In a survey of 4,038 teens and young adults, 45% said they hesitate to see a therapist because their parents don’t take their concerns seriously.
— K-12 Dive, 2022 (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) Contributor, M. L. (2022, April 30). Addressing homelessness and housing challenges in Toronto requires investment from all levels of government. Toronto Star. https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/addressing-homelessness-and-housing-challenges-in-toronto-requires-investment-from-all-levels-of-government/article_cf5c57e1-18dd-5f69-94c9-bd17bc5b610e.html
(2) Modan, N. (2022, May 23). Survey: Third of students reluctant to seek help for mental health issues. K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/survey-third-of-students-reluctant-to-seek-help-for-mental-health-issues/624200/