The challenges of being homeless during the pandemic | Generation Homeless, Episode 01

[@piobmhor8529]

I was a homeless man in the 1980s due to my own stupidity; it was entirely 100% my fault and I blamed no one else but me. Nobody gave a damn about me. I knew that there was only one person who could fix this situation, and that was me. I used a post office box as my fixed address, did up a resume at the Public Library and started knocking on doors for any job. I got a minimum-wage gig, made friends with some of the guys at work and got a shared place with them with my first paycheque. A few months later, I got a decent unionized job and moved into my own place. It was a lesson I learned well and vowed to never be in that situation ever again. Today, when I see some homeless person panhandling I help them out. Not so much with money, but rather I buy them a sandwich or a bowl of soup. Once, I asked a guy going through the dumpster at my apartment building what size his feet were. They were the same size as me so I gave him my old winter boots. His eyes teared up, mostly because some stranger actually cared about him. They are still human beings, and I never forgot that. I know that some are there because of laziness or addictions, but that shouldn’t matter. I look into their eyes and let them know they’re not invisible to me, and I know that makes a difference.

[@Holion5604]

You are a good man. i will work to become more like you.

[@Only-interested-in-the-truth]

I don't think everyone has the same life skills. Some people really have mental illness or intellectual challenges that make them unable to care for themselves fully even if they " look" normal. I am seeing some obvious issues with the girl in the video. Society can not expect the same for everyone. Someone like her needs assistance. It cost way too much to live in the city right now.

[@violitaanderson-smith2394]

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@kevincharbonneau5953]

❤

[@stefaniac2095]

@@Holion5604 me too

[@vtec8000xrpm]

I was homeless all 2019-2021 I got a job at a tire shop and grinded my knuckles to the bone to make ends meet while saving up. Now I got a little room just in time for winter. Hopefully Spring I can get a cheap old car.

[@pinkiesue849]

How did you keep from freezing? I am serious.

[@Matt-cw1mv]

Are you alive?

[@bagsaye3080]

How did u go ?

[@vtec8000xrpm]

@@bagsaye3080 how did I go? Like how did I get transportation?

[@vtec8000xrpm]

@@pinkiesue849 JROTC in high school + a lot of camping when I was in scouts as a kid. Still had my typical jansport backpack, BDU gore-tex parka jacket, cargo pants w thermal underwear. Thermal socks and Carhartt beanie. Gore-tex gloves and hand warmers. Paid $0 bc I had all this issued to me back in JROTC in 2005 lol

[@Lilwooper]

My dear friend Amy. Oh how I pray for you everyday. Known this girl since she was in foster care at age 13. She’s had it rough, she’s stayed with me multiple times in order for me to try to help her get back on her feet, I unfortunately moved hours away & can no longer sometimes even see Amy. I pray for you girl. Breaking my heart seeing you have to sleep in stairwells. She’s a beautiful BEAUTIFUL girl, with an incredible voice. If CBC wants help in saving her I will do whatever in my power to help, she needs saving.. & help.

[@AMYV3]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️❤️ Thank you for caring. I felt she was probably let down as a child and never received the support and help she needed And that breaks my heart. I’m from Toronto. Had many homeless friends from downtown. I was a club kid. I love Toronto. I am also a parent of twin adult sons and a 16 year old daughter. I lucked out. They are all amazing kids doing well but they also have a big family for support as well I couldn’t be more proud. But sadly not all children are as lucky So this breaks my heart. She deserves a life without so much struggle. ❤️❤️

[@amyandrews6017]

I love you and miss you too girl. You've been my family and always will be. Things will get better I promise.. I was depressed and.suicidal at the time and had no hope. I'm not giving up though

[@destroymalefeminists]

@@amyandrews6017 uhhh

[@Lilwooper]

@@amyandrews6017 🥺❤️

[@jesusislordmyrock8099]

This actually made me break down and cry I couldn't even finish the whole video I had to pause it it just makes me so sick how the government is not helping the homeless population get decrease smaller what kinda world we live in .. I remember being homeless and it's not Easy ur always in survival mode and alert mode mostly danger mode ur constantly aware of surroundings and one small insult of another person it just makes u explode like a fire cracker no human being wether if u are bad or not guilty or not guilty doesn't matter no human on this planet deserves to struggle living on the street ppl over time will eventually lose mentality and humanity and senses of emotions there hearts will be colder if they run outta options I've been there done that!. Ppl out there if u are stereo typed against homeless ppl listen to this carefully Those ppl u see On the street Are flesh blood humans just like u and they used to be happy and they had positive stabled mindset before they went on the streets also NOT EVERYONE!!!! Who's on the street started from drugs or alcohol or did something wrong some yes some ... No . So pls do not be so hypocritical judgemental and Rude and automatically Think all homeless ppl are druggies or they are hobos or werid pls be careful what u say ! And take your words carefully bc are mouth is a deadly weapon bc it's serious Karma isn't only involved I'm a true believer in Christ and I know from experience another thing is pls everyone in general bc careful what u say to a person regardless weather if it's a neighbor or friend famliy anyone u can say the most hurtful thing to a person and that same person u hurt could end up with a heartattack words don't only Hurt they Actually kill someone physically That's why it says in the bible that are tounge is a weapon ... I know what it's like to be in pain and those ppl have no other option but to be in pain bc sometimes there isn't really that much options I love ppl All human beings are brothers and sisters to me in Christ Jesus 🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💜

[@craigday1759]

Don’t take life for granted, everything IS NOT PROMISED . No matter what you do right , you still can up lookin like you did wrong

[@kurtispostma9773]

Being homeless sucked. I remember always being too cold, or too hot for extended periods. There was always nowhere to rest properly and safely; always needing to move to not loiter or get persecuted, all while you're burnt out tired. The constant noise of cars driving by and people going about their days eventually made you feel very anxious and restless. I remember always feeling hungry, depressed, and mostly hopeless. You are in a state of declining energy, hygiene issues, and keeping a clean environment around you. You're also prey to any homeless or even just thieves, which starts to set you back even further. The lack of a comfortable bed and consistent food really takes a physical/emotional/mental toll, as well as the loneliness of it all. The long days/nights melting in my car hopelessly will definitely have a lasting impression on me.

[@jonahmacphee5152]

I hope this young woman finds everything she is searching for and more.

[@arminiusofgermania]

Remember. Always treat the less fortunate with dignity. ⚘ Homelessness can happen to anyone. It happened to me back in july-august of 2014. It can happen to anyone.

[@starfleetoffcr]

This young lady deserves a chance at life.

[@kyleklmondwa9042]

I don't think spreading her legs and getting knocked up by a drug addict loser at Age 17 helped her much. Also noticed she has a cigarette addiction. Not sure if people who don't work for a living deserve to be spending other people's money on smoking but okay...

[@tristanos3545]

@Fed Up So called amurikan dream is the best in the world isn't it ? Just curious 🤔 I know that America has nothing to do with the homeless lady from Canada but just to let you know

[@isaiahphillip4112]

@Fed Up Literally north American conservative capitalism... "What do you mean you want a chance at life? We banned abortion, didn't we? No we do not care that you're now starving, destitute, and living on the streets."

[@slabdab4202]

She’s a drug addict not a lady lol you people will never understand

[@blurtam188]

Who's stopping her?

[@joegoldberg6936]

I spent nearly a year homeless with no clue how to go about it. I'm 24 and just now getting off the street..that feeling of having to sleep in public places especially in winnipeg

[@FateTurns]

So how did you go about it in the end?

[@powerofloveism]

Lot of people criticize others on Ontario Works as well, but they don't realize that Welfare or ODSP or Ontario Works if it's still called that , it's not a hand up. The Objective used to be the best way to help someone is to give them the tools they need to get themselves out of Poverty, and even if that means an anonymous donation at first, the system is set up now to further Oppress the already Oppressed, that is also why so much suicide among the homeless too , the overwhelming emotions like depression and disconnection can take a person down so fast. When all hope is gone , the suffering individual cannot over come the darkness without others to show them the way.

[@ms.carlson3904]

I was homeless in Hawaii and stayed in a shelter I Honolulu and got sick and a tough life but I tried to stay cheerful - I kept my stuff at the YMCA and had a coffee there in the morning. Shelter gave out OK meals and nice cloths for free and counselling which was good. Hard to find housing in Hawaii.

[@icedbannanas]

Simply heart-breaking. Wishing you good health and good luck Amy.

[@_RobBanks]

Why are we putting people from OTHER COUNTRIES In 4* hotels for months before giving them luxurious condos and free food and jobs while letting our nationals fend for themselves in tents????? 🤬😡😡😡

[@InfinityDz]

I'm immigrating to Canada soon. Where do they give out 4 stars hotel rooms? I'd be glad if it were true!

[@InfinityDz]

@@RubberDicky Oh. I came in legally.

[@ichigocomeoutandfightmeyou6149]

US bombed Serbia, invaded Iraq,...

[@xgengx7530]

You guys get free healthcare and college education. Stop whining!

[@JH-qs7ph]

Nope. She’s still an addict. I have endless sympathy for people who are struggling but she’s not begging for food. I could go on for days about how I’m a victim and about all of the things I lost but I gotta take responsibility for me . I’m homeless and the only way I’m gonna get out of it is to be sober first and foremost. Hard truth but she gotta get sober before she gets anywhere else.

[@JigglyPuff188]

Do homeless people not deserve money? What a ridiculously judgemental statement.

[@libertarian4323]

@@JigglyPuff188 Do they "deserve" money for drugs? The answer is no. Buy them a sandwich, but don't throw money at them to feed their addiction(s).

[@JigglyPuff188]

@@libertarian4323 Why only a sandwich? What if they want to buy something nice for themselves or go somewhere to treat themselves?

[@andrewcollins6954]

@@JigglyPuff188 Most addicts fundamentally dislike themselves. They don't go anywhere or treat themselves to nice things. They buy drugs, to dull the existential pain.

[@JustCrash]

@@JigglyPuff188you obviously haven’t heard the saying “beggars can’t be choosers”. She should’ve made smart decisions if she wants money to treat herself luxuriously.

[@beckygardner2293]

I struggle hard with empathy, i grew up in a small town and moved to toronto and always watched videos like this and tried so hard to help as many homeless people as I could. It hurt my soul how many people were sick and took advantage and used me and used the small amount I had for useless endeavors without any apologies. I would sit with people for hours and hear there story and it broke my heart over and over but I know my money cannot help if the system can't help. I ended up having alcohol abuse issues myself and I got treatment and did everything it took to change my life. Its such a sad cruel world and I hate that I have this stigma. She seems like such a sweet heart. Wishing her only the best.

[@geebee8989]

You cannot solve the problem of homelessness until you take a serious look on why and how people become homeless. How many are really willing to look into the depth of the matter?

[@jacobrocks7]

So sad. I hope she gets off the street and has success in life. There needs to be more help for vulnerable youth like her. So sad ..pray for her

[@itsTheo_0]

Shoutout 2 all the Warming Centres who help keep anyone who doesn’t have a place 2 go warm and safe. It’s super tough out here.. such a broken world. PEACE & LOVE ☁️

[@preciousjoy6360]

This is so heartbreaking. I know how it is to be homeless, Although i am fortunate to be staying in a shelter, but this really hurt my heart and i hope she found something.

[@theshawnmurphyjournal2946]

Toronto is a tough and rough city to be without money or housing ; back in November of 93 the only time i was homeless i stayed at the Salvation Army on Queen east for 6 weeks. Never do i want to go back there and that place is 5 times worse in 2021

[@_RobBanks]

Now it’s all fentanyl and meth. But it’s going to bust soon. So many are dying.

[@carmineredd1198]

it is easy in toronto. you just don't have the skills. one guy can bum $20 easy and has been in the same camp 8 years and only had 2 visitors that took a few worthless things his camp is about 100 feet from where he bums , he has a phone and youtube channel and is a tyrant and accuses me of trashing his camp and stealing from him and i dont live in canada ha ha ha i do live in his head though

[@petercollette6709]

Everybody at the CBC should donate their location for shelter and for helping the people of humanity❤

[@emersonslater8144]

I’m 22 and this scared me.

[@AnnaLVajda]

Yeah this makes me angry to see our Government virtue signalling about helping refugees from afar and don't help the Canadians. It's interesting she mentions the show survivor as if it's just a fun lark to be without resources. I grew up in a small community and lived in Toronto for about a year when I was 20 and was shocked then by all the homelessness that was more than 20 years ago I don't think it has improved.

[@davidblake7886]

Correct

[@gagan77100]

Helping refugees? How.And she doesn't have any ID so she is as good refugee.

[@user-ve5ln5le9y]

Well what do you expect when people from other towns just drift here and misbehave/abuse drugs/etc. then panhandle and squat on our streets. We are not here to be the repository for homeless from everywhere

[@AMYV3]

@@user-ve5ln5le9y they need more mental health help out there. She was let down as a child. That’s the problem to begin with. She obviously didn’t have great support to get proper mental health help when she was young. Sadly that is the case with most young homeless people.

[@alelectric2767]

Because they add something to this country. They start business and then employee people. This person gave up.

[@niziaharrison1686]

It brings me to tears because she’s only 22 years old😞😞😞😞😞😞

[@bmoshareholderappleshareho855]

She's only 22 years old and she already has a kid and no husband?

[@mtnbikr107]

I always try to treat homeless in my town as humans; always chat with them and help where I can. God knows they are dehumanized every day by passerbys and inconsiderate individuals who have the privilege of stability.

[@WRXDEMON]

If I had a steady stream of billions of dollars coming to me every year, I’d fund all kinds of programs to help get people like her off the street, get her working a respectful job and reunite her with her son. Alas, the world doesn’t seem it’s a good idea to give people like me money - rather make people rich who like to waste it on trips to space or yachts or drugs.

[@TheTraveler2222]

you don't even need to be a millionaire let alone a billion to start giving!

[@WRXDEMON]

@@TheTraveler2222 you shouldn’t speak like you know someone else’ financial situation.

[@rrrr-p3d6e]

@@WRXDEMON that is not his point.

[@WRXDEMON]

@@rrrr-p3d6e and my point is that some people want to give and make a difference in others lives, but can’t because we ourselves need help.

[@-AnonymousUser]

Lobe this idea 💡

[@AMYV3]

These are our children our fathers our grandparents. 😞

[@duckiebaby1975]

I am her sons paternal grandmother NOT Amy's grandmother, There is A LOT more to the story than what was presented.

[@ComboverChris]

Plz share details 🙏🏿

[@Ex-HomelessSoul]

I'd agree. I spent 2 decades homeless, the majority street/shelter homeless, on crack. The biggest problems are the non-profits & charities supposedly there to help. Then there are categories, to the type of homeless and problems faced. I left the army on medical at 21, didn't get off the streets totally until I was almost 40.

[@destroymalefeminists]

looks like drugs. im so sorry

[@JigglyPuff188]

@@destroymalefeminists people just don’t do drugs for fun. It’s called mental illness. When your own mind starts attacking you into insanity, that’s when people run to drugs.

[@JigglyPuff188]

@@Ex-HomelessSoul How did you get off the streets?

[@jade_mouseydark0077]

I hope everything goes well for these ladies, I wish them happy and good on there journey of life and hope a group or organization program will solve homelessness here in canada ??

[@motherhoodsbeauty9279]

I remember feeling homeless when a light went out for a week. I had a such a hard time stay in house with no heater and didn’t get to take shower. Just imagine people who actually have to sleep outside in cold weather with no food and warm water to shower.

[@ashsuri1289]

they get a monthly check from the government 1800$ I dont know what the excuses are. Get off Drugs and grow up is the solution. I was homeless I got myself out of it. ZERO HELP.

[@motherhoodsbeauty9279]

@@ashsuri1289 1800$? Where do you get this info?

[@KingIstvan]

Very sad for this soul. It’s been said that a measure of a successful society is how we take care of the most vulnerable.

[@chi_phan]

I wonder sometimes why her grandmother didnt take her in too.

[@Jake-d2l]

Good point.

[@AMYV3]

@@daniellewhite2298 do u know she has other children ? Or just guessing No hate just wondering:). I think shes probably dealing with mental illness and the grandma feels the child would be more settled without mom there right now. Especially if she’s with that man. Not knowing him or judging just a lot of homeless women date just to feel safe and have company but if they aren’t willing to leave them if there is a drug problem etc that might be an issue for grandma. 🤷‍♀️ She really needs a social worker to help her with getting her ID and to apply for housing etc. :). We do need more social workers and cut down on the police. Leave them for actually crimes. Real help

[@spacex2643]

@@AMYV3 You mean she wasn’t a Canadian? A foreigner?

[@duckiebaby1975]

actually i have 5 kids (3 of who are adults). i am Amys sons paternal grandmother. There is A LOT more to this story.....

[@spacex2643]

@@daniellewhite2298 I am a English learner, so sometimes have mistakes.

[@bonpearl5334]

There is ABSOLUTELY NO REASON WHY THE SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO HELP THAT WOMAN GET HOUSING and GET HER CHILD BACK WITH HER. UNACCEPTABLE!!

[@devinmcmanus]

City of Toronto: We have hundreds of people sleeping outdoors and nowhere to put them! Also City of Toronto: We have over 12 million square feet of unused office space.

[@stitches318]

I don't understand all these women who say they are homeless but their child has a place to stay with relatives. When I was younger and struggling where my child stayed I stayed. We slept in the same twin bed. My son had the stability of me in his life, and I was clean and presentable for job interviews. Something fishy going on when a relative allows a child to stay (what about childcare?) but not the parent of the child

[@perlaacuna2054]

Son is staying with paternal grandmother. And she has no place there. Amy as a child was in a foster home, she has nobody from her family to help her.

[@stitches318]

@@perlaacuna2054 But why? Most people don't want the responsibility of a small child full time. Even if she is just sleeping nights there I don't see how her child could be allowed but not her

[@Doofus171]

She's not being honest. I've worked with people who have addictions. She clearly has all of the signs of addiction and addiction related mental health issues. Her problem isnt homelessness, its addiction.

[@perlaacuna2054]

Her problem may be mental condition leading to addiction. She is not to blame as she is not responsible fir her mental condition. Easy to be hard with her. Why aren't you more positive?

[@Doofus171]

@@perlaacuna2054 Its not being positive vs not being positive, its being real. Reality is harsh and sugar coating stuff doesnt help people get better nor does it help address various situations. I've seen too many disasters in peoples lives because they didnt want to face the reality of the issues they faced.

[@themisanthropichumanist7050]

She looks like Mekayla Bali, the girl that went missing in 2016.

[@ralphkilloran8065]

Until the 1980s Canada was proud to assist the poor with decent living standards that included housing.

[@pinkiesue849]

what happened?

[@ralphkilloran8065]

@@pinkiesue849 the poor became poorer.

[@spark300c]

@@ralphkilloran8065 no they care more about immigrants than Canadians. Globalism is prison.

[@ralphkilloran8065]

@@spark300c I understand how it seems Canada favours immigrants over citizens but this only applies to immigrants watched by the United Nations. My observation is the Free Trade Agreements with the 3rd world having exported manufacturing jobs abroad for cheap labour that has collapsed our middle class and especially the blue collar. Profits for the elites is all that matters.

[@davidjohnston1461]

GOD BLESS THIS LADY IN HER LIFE ON THE STREETS

[@ihavethedocuments2580]

Poor kid. The system is broken Jesus protect her 🙏

[@Lucy-xz6yj]

I hope you make it girl.... love and light ❤

[@nayamo8828]

If she can't have it in this life then I hope she has a mansion in heaven.

[@wolfheart3126]

I just watched this video Amy I hope you find a place to live my heart goes to you your beautiful soul I hope your ok I will be praying for you and if I lived there I'd definitely give you a place to live with all my heart I hope your ok I don't know you but this video made me cry so much my heart goes out to you

[@ericwong4213]

This is why education is important. You can have job in factory, car garage, and other labors until they all closing down 1by1 and you found yourself homeless. I worked in Financial industry, and yes my company got merged and we got kicked out 4-5 times, but we always manage to get office job in 1-2 mths max. for senior staffs, they started again at new companies from bottom, but after few months, they got promoted to senior level again due to their knowledge and skill. When those factories in trouble, the old one always the first to go because they are slow and less productive. But in office, the old ones are the seniors and they know all the system and procedures. The young starters are usually the first to get kicked out.

[@selveg]

I so agree with you.

[@musicman76enator]

This is a very moving story. I am so sorry to hear about Amy's situation. It's so heartbreaking. She has gone through a lot. When she said that she wishes she had her son back, that made me very emotional. I'm also very disappointed in the Toronto City government for not doing something to help homeless people like Amy. No one should ever have to live on the streets. Ever. If anyone is in the Toronto area, please help this beautiful young woman.

[@AMYV3]

She really needs a good social worker to help her find the help that is out there. But yes more money should be used towards these workers to get them off the streets.

[@shaunmirowski5876]

So sad so heartbreaking 💔 it’s so wrong that ppl can’t get the true help needed

[@hardworker645]

God bless this young lady

[@gigoelmoselhi4903]

So heartbreaking and makes me so angry at our city officials who are not doing enough!

[@samjewellery3336]

No tjus lady don't do enough for herself.

[@gabrielday9519]

@@samjewellery3336 She needs to find shelter and have an address before she can work, because many jobs won't hire anyone without an address.

[@gabrielday9519]

@Artax Horse That's so true 👍

[@Bunny11344]

Then you could always go do something about it perhaps?

[@billastell3753]

Canada needs a minimum annual income policy. Anyone willing to work will have enough money to have food and a safe warm place to live. If a person can't find a job the government should create work projects to better our communities in what ever ways will make our communities better.

[@perlaacuna2054]

Government instead of giving tax payer money to their friends LGTB , should care about homeless

[@chrismanikkam6444]

I live in South Africa 🇿🇦, we live a decent middle class life. It's always be a dream to imagrate to Canada or America. I never knew life was so tough for many in these first world countries. Really Sad

[@homelessintoronto]

True

[@gmackinnon648]

As a Torontoian. IET me tell you if you have a good life their. Canada is the last place you want to change it for. Especially over taxed expensive Toronto. Best to enjoy life there, not suffer here.

[@stefaniac2095]

Her son is with grandma but she is on the street. This must be an Anglo Saxon thing or a North American thing. I can’t imagine anyone in Italy letting a relative be on the street. What else aren’t we hearing from her?

[@UstashaMe84]

It’s a very Anglo-Saxon thing. I am one and it’s brutal. I hate that about our culture. I respect the Italians for being the opposite.

[@evecarrington562]

I agree. I think it is an Anglo-Saxon thing. Among most minority races, we are there for our loved ones unless that simply want to live on the streets and do drugs. We would have taken both the child and mother.

[@chrislaverick6413]

There’s more to the story than it seems to me, for one why doesn’t she have any identification? Just get some ID and get a job, two why is she choosing to be homeless in the most expensive city in Canada? Three why did the grandmother take the grandchild and not her own daughter? Could it be substance abuse? I don’t know there’s too many red flags for me to totally take her side and sympathize

[@UstashaMe84]

@@chrislaverick6413 There often is but that could also mean that people were even more horrible to her than it seems. A lot of people on the streets have mental health issues or are victims of sexual abuse as a child. If she’s addict then she does have mental health, maybe not born with it but it can develop. The mental need to take more drugs. I believe the OP is correct about us Anglo-Saxons. You turn 18 and in most cases it’s gtfo. Italians, Portuguese, and Greek people could care less they love having their family around.

[@chrislaverick6413]

@@UstashaMe84 that’s a generalization and I’m not buying that, I know plenty of kids that lived with their parents up until their 30s, but lets go back to the homeless situation, if your major concern was getting a home in these trying times, then why would you choose the most expensive place in Canada to live? Why wouldn’t you just go to some small town up north or anywhere else, the average house in Toronto is like what? 1.4 million? I would go homeless too if I tried to live in Toronto

[@1972dsrai]

I feel so sorry for anyone homeless in Canada, the winters are unbelievably cold and so many die every year there due to having to sleep outdoors and being female is even worse as they’re often vulnerable to being abused. London, UK.

[@1972dsrai]

@Artax Horse You're right, many people freeze to death from being out in the cold when drunk, but I didn't include it as it's something that can happen to anyone whether homeless or not.

[@Sam-j6l9x]

I just saw a couple in there late 70’s and 80’s in a tent in Toronto. It’s a shame what Trudeau has done to this country.

[@paulinahz4499]

She looks like a drug addict though, and why is she focusing on getting engaged instead of finding a job and getting her son back, she seems almost happy being homeless comparing it to 'survivor'? Homelessness is a huge issue but many of these people are unfortunately addicts and alcoholics who don't get the proper treatment. This woman clearly needs rehab.

[@jasondube3674]

Who cares if she's a drug addict! Some people grow up with a lot of abuse and problems and the only time they feel good is by taking drugs if you felt like crap 24 hours a day and the only relief you got is by drugs, you would be in the same situation!

[@steveshea6148]

Huh?

[@garcjr]

A few people I've known that have worked in call centers have to do drugs. So yes homeless people going into shelters should clean up. But if they wind up with a call center job then it's understandable why they would want to keep doing drugs and alcohol.

[@user-cc5od3zk4p]

This person has issues with mental health and addiction. I worked with addicts for two years and unless they want to change, there’s no hope. It’s hard when the system is stacked against you but, one client did do it. It’s very hard work.

[@nathaliedionne4256]

I hope this sweet woman finds a good life/home soon. She deserves it. Just breaks my heart to see her like this. So hopefully something good happens for her soon. And she can be happy with her son and boyfriend as well.

[@lprice5583]

This women deserves nothing. All she can do is pan handle and beg? Wake up! If she could show up to a job on time more than two days in a row she would have a job and be able to take care of herself. Stop Fallin for their weak excuses.

[@nathaliedionne4256]

@@lprice5583 seriously?!?!? How would you feel if you were homeless and ur life got turned upset down like, huh?? She’s trying to fight to get her life back on track all the homeless people are and it’s hard. It’s sad what they go through. So don’t say they don’t deserve anything or not to fall for any of there excuses. 😠

[@lprice5583]

@@nathaliedionne4256 what can't this woman change about her situation?

[@nathaliedionne4256]

@@lprice5583 she’s trying to. Being homeless isn’t easy as you see. 🤦‍♀️

[@shadowsmith1386]

@@nathaliedionne4256 ikr what wrong with people

[@kaylaryder8371]

what a wonderful spirit thank you and great voice Mikayla

[@vmatias9248]

The speculation and snap judgements on here are painful. You do not know another person's life. Wondering if CBC would be able to add any links to help in the description?

[@robinsonjiengimchoo]

I pleaded God Amy and all the homeless people find jobs, permanent homes, and stable life forevermore.

[@bmoshareholderappleshareho855]

Do you really think that God is going to solve her problems?

[@robinsonjiengimchoo]

@@bmoshareholderappleshareho855 don't care her so much don't leave a message.

[@shu-longhe4048]

The way to help the homeless people Canadian people every year welcomed thousand refugees from abroad, and supported them with generous resources to settle down their lives in Canada. There’s no doubt Canadian would do same things to the homeless people in our society, but the same things are not needed by our homeless people. As most us know, most our homeless people with mental illnesses and hard bad addictions. They are not capable to make right choices for themselves. But it’s not safe and right for making choices for our homeless people even with our good intentions. As in the past happened so many governments and metal health institutions abused their power over the venerable people. The key is the whole country specially the federal government should determined with provincial and municipal governments and many social groups to solve the problems together. To provide the nice, attractive, safe environment places for the homeless people. It would cost more than supporting the refugees and without returning, the refugees after settling would pay back as tax payers. But it would cost much less than mental health institutions, prisons and the damages they cost to the communities. And providing better environment for the people, businesses and communities where the homeless people live now. Most importantly it is our responsibility for the homeless people and the communities where they live.

[@alanaweaver8942]

Instead of asking for spare change ask for help with obtaining a job a place to shower daily. This is why there needs to be affordable apartments. No we don’t know if she was using drugs along with her boyfriend but a lot of white women fall victim to their boyfriends taking their earnings leaving them basically a step from homelessness. If she’s determined to get her son back she needs help to get into shelter, so she can shower daily and go find work so she can rent basement room or private room until she can afford her own apartment again. A relationship with a different man show be last thing on her mind after what her son’s father put her through. Being out on the streets is aging her rapidly.

[@cloudzack1090]

Alot of white women eh?

[@YA-qj8fx]

I feel sorry for her, but she does seem a little off -- maybe stunted development or drugs.

[@daveionkeithon9437]

My heart goes out to you keep strong an keep praying you get help soon God bless you

[@icevoss9917]

Canada government should take care of it's own people first, the drug addicted, the homeless and the low income, stop letting immigrants come into the country unless there is enough housing

[@graceescz7188]

I hope she finds a home before it gets really cold outside..😢

[@_RobBanks]

So yea I’m homeless and it’s really hard out here and … I feel like I should sing now. Ready 1 2 3 😭😭 Just blows me away. Talented. I sure hope she’s doing ok / better today.

[@vvkeedits4068]

What's your suggestions to international graduates who wants to immigrate to Canada for better opportunities? Do you think it's ryt thing to do or they should think something else to do at their home country or immigrate to any other country?

[@HelloWorld-uq9yx]

I was homeless a few timeless to drug addiction nd it really sucked in the winter bc everyone in Canada knows how cold it gets in Canada! I'm sober now nd I help the homeless when I can

[@heatherstockford814]

People need a hot shower, a place to clean their clothes, and a secure place to sleep even if it has to be in a tent city. Tent cities should be improved upon instead of torn down. There have always been transient humans around settled towns. It's unrealistic to expect every single human being on earth to be tucked away neatly at all times. Life is big and messy...gentrification cannot clean the human condition. Been living in vehicles for 5 years. Often the homeless folks I come across are ingenious and creative in their survival skills and are part of a community with each other.

[@batistakhongngainchannel6808]

God knows your needs better trust him....I cannot help since too far.. Only prayer ....God loves you all always...

[@gmackinnon648]

Unfortunately the waiting list for available housing in Toronto is 8-20 years. Honestly hope she's found and has a home.

[@bmoshareholderappleshareho855]

Eight to twenty years? That's not a waiting list.

[@catholicchurch4766]

I hope she will get a home as soon as possible.

[@mathewbaldwin5277]

When she says" some people are lucky and some people aren't" made me sick, she should consider herself lucky that she gets free food, free money , plus they'll give her her kid back if she finds a place?!?,?!,#$(@)? She should consider herself the luckiest/laziest person on the planet!lots of people who don't get free food, money and for some reason can't have a kid consider themselves lucky! And they HELP/VOLUNTEER for people in need on the side.......

[@edlubitz2968]

Ive been homeless and do wish it on some people, some people are homeless because of choices that they make to pursue drugs and alcohol and in some places gambling, others are homeless by lack of choice, lost job or cant find housing, There are levels of homeless, you can be homeless living in a vehicle and still look at others as being homeless because of how they deal with it, some pan handle while others steal and sell drugs. I always looked down on those who begged for change or stand on the corner with cardboard signs. I get it but would rather starve. There is not really any dignity in being homeless, the only way out is be making a plan and following through. Anyone can become homeless eating from soup kitchens, and drop in centers, which by the way provide measured calories with very few fats and sugars, something that you need to live when your walking around all day. As a homeless person you see injustice everyday, In Canada you cant get welfare, its dam near impossible, I applied for social assistance and they told me that if I had a drug problem or alcohol problem I could receive benefits. Having no job to a DUI unable to collect Unemployment, something that I paid intro for most of my life. This government wants you to die if you dare ask for something that you paid into for majority of your life. The only choice you have is to give up and die or learn and move on. To this day I will never forgive the arrogance of some people who work in government offices in jobs that are designed to help people, by the way collecting a paycheck from a government agency is not a real job, it creates nothing and does nothing to better our economy, there checks are taken from the taxes of hard working people who actually create something out of nothing. Government jobs are a leach on society. I wish for those people without empathy or regard for anyone but themselves to experience standing in a line for a bed at the local shelter in -30 weather with meth heads trying to start a fight with you cause they are junked out and are tweaking for a fight, where are the cops?, homeless dont matter at all, ...those people like cops, judges, lawyers and social workers can all die for all I care. We dont need them, its a myth,

[@homelessintoronto]

Sorry to hear this, I hope you are doing well

[@romanaugusto5195]

This girl misfortune happens to her, to be left on the street because of a drug addict scoundrel, let's hope that some good neighbor in Toronto can help her reestablish a normal life. she deserves it she doesn't seem like a bad girl, and she also has a beautiful singing voice .. .IF IT WERE NOT BECAUSE I LIVE SO FAR, I WOULD HELP HER ..in truth, I feel sorry and also being so young ...😢😢

[@johnnyo8299]

I think she's on drugs too?

[@billydiaz09]

Government can offer courses like psw and get a loan. Life is also harder in 3rd world country but in canada as long as u perceiver work is just anywhere. Health care related jobs are everywhere. Shes still young she can do it

[@Num48jj]

She is lazy, free courses in psw, no education required, earn $20 per hour, why live on the street

[@destroymalefeminists]

@@Num48jj period. no excuses but wants to make themselves a victim

[@Lilwooper]

@@Num48jj shame on all of you truly.

[@neilredmond8296]

I hope it works out for this beautiful person. Goodluck..🌟.Amy.🌟.

[@AnthonyCarrier]

I spent the 5 years down there on the sidewalks and just as COVID began I have been in an apartment...good luck down there and if you ask about most people know who I am...you actually look familiar too...

[@sharptongue1]

What about respites or drop in centres like sistering that is open 24/7 .

[@daletidy.]

Unfortunately that is not a permanent solution. Nor one that could accommodate the amount of homeless in Toronto. Permanent housing for homeless and social support is what is needed

[@user-ve5ln5le9y]

What is also needed is for people to stop taking drugs, period, and take some fkn responsibility

[@mikalogue2953]

@@user-ve5ln5le9y consider that there are a number of factors into why people fall into the margins of society; our current institutions are incapable of supporting folks in need, because it's rooted in a capitalistic society. Addiction is a disease, just like other mental illnesses - many of which pose as significant barriers from upward mobility. The discourse isn't as reductive as you're making it out to be.

[@ayannatownsend534]

@@mikalogue2953 Thank you for pointing that out!!! I hope the same people on here that lack any type of empathy don't get the same karma of the ones that they judge so harshly

[@1216Rockman]

@@user-ve5ln5le9y that's how this works people who are homeless aren't all drug addicts and the people who are are self-medicating for mental illness

[@DavidLee-wj9sp]

Since the covid , it seems like cops are more forgiving with car camping, tents,etc.

[@lukewarmwater5320]

Alot of times we would walk around all night then jump a train at Wellesley station when they opened, there's a spot they couldn't see in the mirror where you could slip through undetected, then you could catch up on some sleep for a few hours on a warm train...

[@alidz906]

I hope to you the best luck sister don't Give up you can't start over your brother from Algeria 🇩🇿🇩🇿

[@giasone777]

Always be kind to the homeless, if you see one buy them some food.

[@mrmileskp]

If I knew the backstory of homeless people like her I'd always give money, but some just use the money to buy drugs. What use is that

[@joydixon8244]

Did I just hear her say she 22 years old? Or maybe I heard wrong because she looks hell alot older

[@45035]

Outstanding shipmate. Press on. USS kitty Hawk CV-63/ Jan 1980 to July 1983. I remember siting in San Deigo waiting for the bus and felling so alone so far away from home. Don`t worry GOD has a specal place in Heaven for you. I know.

[@jerryanstey7058]

This is what happens when the heart is not in the same place as the mind !

[@debbieframpton3857]

Amy's mother is raising her young son why can't she live with them? Must be a reason

[@darlenegraff70]

Breaks my heart 😓

[@sherapadda]

They choose that life,,,,rooms are very cheap in brampton for like 400-450,,,,,there's alot of work agencies provide work on cash,,,,,

[@m.wenger206]

Let the holy church help the ones in need, hallelujah !!

[@romeoandjuliet6522]

Thank God I am not homeless so far

[@VictoriaMayaElla]

Where is she now?

[@VictoriaMayaElla]

Can we please start a gofundme for her

[@dianabarnes9471]

I am trying to listen to why she cannot live with the Grandmother who has custody of her son, seems life would get going if she did.

[@steveshea6148]

Grandma does not have custody. Amy does.

[@TaylorShuffle]

very nice doc

[@phillipmoodielaw]

Why not stay at your grandma's until you get back on your feet?

[@caty9995]

The thing is less and less people have money to spare since the Covid Pandemic started. It certainty isn't the well off or the rich giving change to these poor souls. I can't help them as often as I would like to anymore. I pay my rent and bills first, make a budget for food for myself and my cats for the month, make sure I have change for bus fair during the month and so, I can't be giving out my bus fair and have no extra change for these poor souls. Once in a while I will help with what I can but not like before. This pandemic and lockdowns has hit alot of ordinary people hard. People who didn't mind helping these people out, find it financially hard to help. I don't ignore them, I will say hi and ask how they're doing and acknowledge them but, I can't, not that I don't want to help them. Sometimes I Wii offer to go in store and buy them a drink and a bag of chips and some accept and appreciate it but some don't want it. The well off and the rich should walk down the street in ordinary clothing and help out these people by giving them a little money or going in the store and buy them some food, even giving out clean clothing that they don't need anymore. I do understand that some who refuse food or clothing need money for bus fares and some of them it's for drugs and alcohol . Come on! I wasn't born yesterday. They do get a street check from Social services, here in Ontario and their address can be a shelter, or another institution. Some are there not by their own fault but, some are there because they prefer not having the headache of paying rent or bills. Some are there because of drugs and alcohol abuse but, like I said " since the Pandemic and Lockdowns it's alot harder to get help. I will not support someone else's drug or alcohol abuse, when I'm barely making it by myself. Some districts have more to offer than others. They should arrange something where all districts have some good and safe fresh food to eat and give out clean wearable clothes plus bus fair at givin out once a month. I'm pretty sure there's a small street check but , unfortunately it doesn't help the ones who want to get off the street. If anyone has looked at what's happening in some parts of the United States it's beginning to look like a third world country. I want to say to poor immigrants that Canada is not what it use to be. You come here thinking you'll have a better life and end up disappointed and living on the streets. Only immigrants who already have money or skills that some companies might need , make it here and some are better off then your born and raised Canadians. Don't come to Canada if you don't have money from the get go or someone has offered you a good paying job because of your skills. You can't pay rent, bills, and food all by yourself on a small salary. It just doesn't exist anymore , not even for us. 🕯️❤️✌️

[@perlaacuna2054]

Thanks for being honest. You are right about immigrants situation. Even educated immigrant, when they look for job,, is extremely hard.

[@emym9888]

Sadly couples need to learn to put some money aside. Like in a private account for bad days. When we had bad times. Id tell my husband lets see what we have aside in our hidden box or sock. id put a little 1.00 or 2.00 here and that mostly i was saving from using grocery coupons. When id borrow from it id put it back as a credit card. Now its 40 years youd be surprise how much i have .....

[@caty9995]

Some people have to live paycheck to paycheck and some have children. With that said, alot of people can only pay there rent and rely on food banks and soup kitchens to eat. Some, are lucky or blessed to have family who help them out, many don't.

[@ghadi202X]

Send all the bums to Alberta, that place is gross, they'll fit right in

[@davidcooper4385]

I have separate bank accounts ,marriage is a business ..

[@davidcooper4385]

Don't do drugs THAT SIMPLE..

[@NazimUddin-yk2tz]

How much lol

[@CraftyShawn]

That’s sad and deep

[@Crispin-mf4yo]

A beautiful sight to behold.

[@cloudzack1090]

The challenge of keeping the comments section turned off or on: cbc special

[@steveshea6148]

exactly

[@icevoss9917]

I'm actually scared of returning to Canada from New Zealand now and wondering if it is better to stay here.

[@elviscobb5922]

Hello,I live in the United States not far from the Canada border. If you’re settled and safe where you are you might want to stay put for a while longer.A move and a fresh in Canada will be very costly and of course so very cold in the winter. I wish you the best either way.

[@newyorksnatascha9805]

Heart-wrenching 🙏💗

[@peatjones]

I was homeless in bc without fuckall for schooling. I dropped out in grade 10 for work. Soo i moved to Edmonton because i heard they hire with less education. Thank god i had a family memebr there already because i lost my id. And wasent able to get a new one for almost 10 years. Id go to apply and theyd tell me they dont believe im from canada. Im white born in bc have zero accent theyd say they think im from America trying to get a id. Thank god i got a job and had my older brother at the time or is be out in the streets too. I now have a id. Kept the job and have my own place. It was super hard to get there without id. I managed to cash checks. Get a townhouse and have internet thru my landlord all without proper identification. I can see this almost being impossible and you really have to rely on generosity of others.