Event a ‘wakeup call’ to youth homelessness

More than 220 participants stepped into the shoes of homeless youth and raised $373,000 – and counting – at the 360°Experience 2025 to support 360°kids’ programs and services.

“This event is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a wake-up call to the realities of youth homelessness,” says Clovis Grant, CEO of 360°kids. “Every dollar raised goes directly toward providing housing, support services and opportunities for young people in our community.”

Participants braved cold and harsh conditions on March 6 to take part in a night of learning, reflection and real-life simulations to understand the struggles that young people experiencing homelessness face every day, the organization reports.

The event, made possible by staff, volunteers, board members, youth ambassadors and program youth, included an in-person event, corporate challenge and virtual participation. In addition to Grant, opening ceremony speakers included Town of Richmond Hill Mayor David West; Steve Flamand, executive director of Hyundai 360°Experience Presenting Sponsor; Ryan Hogan, staff superintendent of York Regional Police; Rhonda Leeson, chair of the 360°kids Board of Directors; and youth speakers from 360°kids.

For more than 30 years, 360°kids has been committed to providing essential housing, support and resources to vulnerable and homeless youth across York Region. The organization offers a wide range of programs to “empower young people to transition out of crisis and build a brighter future,” it reports.

To donate or learn more, visit www.360kids.ca.

Photo courtesy of 360°kids.