Riders hit the road for Youth Haven

Dozens of riders took part Sunday in the first Ride for Youth Haven, an emergency shelter in Barrie for homeless and at-risk youth.

Motorcyclists mapped a route from Park Place in Barrie to Home Depot locations in Orillia and Midland and then back to Home Depot in Barrie for a BBQ.

Organizers say while the first year was important to raise funds, it was also critical to raise awareness about youth homelessness in our communities.

"Youth Haven recently established outreach programs in Orillia and South Simcoe," said YH Board Member Ian MacLennan.  "But the only emergency shelter for young people is in Barrie."

There are 27 beds at Youth Haven, and  while the majority are for emergency use, there are several transitional beds.  Even so, on most nights the couches are turned into beds for youth seeking shelter.

Youth Haven takes in males and females ages 16-24.   Over 80 percent of the youth who reside at Youth Haven are fleeing domestic violence, sexual and physical abuse, and neglect.  There can also be mental health and addiction issues. There are also youth there who are LGBTQ, who are struggling with their own identity, and in some cases feel rejected by family.

There were draws and Face Your Fear challenges during the ride to reflect the fear youth who are on the street face each day.