On December 6, 2018, Label Innovation took part in Ottawa’s largest outdoor SleepOUT event, dedicated to changing the lives of Ottawa’s homeless youth.  The Youth Services Bureau (YSB) helped start this event to raise awareness and funds for assistance programs, shelters etc for the homeless youth in Ottawa.

LINC employees all rallied together to support this cause, and Kelly Youngdale (President), Paul Carusi (Sales and Marketing Director), Finance Team members Rudy Witlox and Tracy Wilson and Client Service Representative Sarah Bouagada attended the sleep outside event at TD Place to play their part in helping the YSB achieve their goals. Close to 700 people slept overnight in minus conditions to help raise awareness and show support for this vital cause.

Unfortunately, the winter months are not the only battle for homeless youth in Ottawa. Many are suffering from trauma, mental health issues, poverty, addiction, and other challenges that contribute to homelessness. The statistics can be even more unsettling:

• 1,400 youth in Ottawa are homeless
• Over 68% of homeless youth have at least one diagnosable mental health issue
• Up to 60% of homeless youth have considered ending their lives, 46% report have attempted suicide
• 61% of homeless youth experienced childhood trauma and abuse
• 1 in 4 shelter clients in Ottawa are youth under 17 years of age vs. the national average of 1 in 7

You too can help make a difference in the life of a youth.  To learn more about the SleepOUT event or the Youth Services Bureau, visit at sleepout.ysb.ca today.