360°Experience returns to shine light on youth homelessness

Since 1998, 360°kids has been supporting unhoused youth. The organization supports around 3,700 youth annually through housing, education, employment, and health & well-being.

360°kids will host its 13th annual 360°Experience on March 5, with proceeds supporting youth in York Region experiencing homelessness.

“Many individuals from the community coming together for one evening for the 360°Experience creates greater awareness about an issue, youth homelessness, that does not receive enough attention in York Region – an issue that often surprises individuals when they come to understand that homelessness is not just a big city/ Toronto problem, but also exists in their ‘backyard’ here in (York) Region,” says 360°kids CEO Clovis Grant.

The event provides three ways to participate, allowing people to engage based on their comfort level and availability.

The Overnight Experience runs from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. and begins at the Community Safety Village (CSV) in Stouffville. Participants will first gather for remarks from 360°kids staff, youth ambassadors, and community partners before venturing out to spend the night in York Region. The experience is designed to mirror youth homelessness by having participants find shelter using only a sleeping bag and tarp and visiting community agencies.

The Team Challenge takes place from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at CSV, where teams begin activities with scenarios of challenges that youth experience with homelessness.

The last option is the Virtual Experience, which is an ideal option for students. Participants are required to raise a minimum of $100. There will be an activity guide of youth scenarios to work through.

“Young people on the streets are often judged harshly by society. However, when participants participate in the 360°Experience, compassion and understanding become a new reality…not just because of the learning of new facts but the opportunity to experience and to spend time in someone else’s shoes even if for only one night,” says Grant.

To register and learn more about 360°Experience, visit 360kids.ca/360experience2026

*Story submitted by Christina Manserra.