In 2022, the YWCA Niagara Region partnered with Drs Rebecca Raby and Christine Tardif-Williams of Brock University to embark on a research project into the lives and experiences of children who are homeless with their families. This is an underexplored area of research, despite its importance at a time of high levels of homelessness in the Niagara region and across Canada.

This report outlines the data collection process, shares key themes, and presents recommendations. The researchers outline three themes, based on data gathered from the children and YWCA staff members:

  • Challenges of Children’s Homelessness with Their Families
  • Strengths Associated with Living in Shelter
  • Challenges Associated with Living in Shelter

Published By: Rebecca Raby, Christine Tardif-Williams, Erikа Alegria & Frederick Oppong, Child and Youth Studies, Brock University in collaboration with YWCA Niagara Region

Publication Date: March, 2026

Click here to access Children’s Experiences of Homelessness in Shelter Living

Click here to access Niagara children share realities of homelessness through Brock research (Brock News article)