Canada's Hidden Youth Crisis

Youth and community insights on the widening equity gap—and how to close it.

Download the report

Canada's Hidden Youth Crisis

Youth and community insights on the widening equity gap—and how to close it.

Download the report

As the cost of living rises and stable employment opportunities decline, young people today find themselves navigating an increasingly uncertain future. For the approximately 300,000 youth in low-income communities across the country, these pressures are magnified.

Created in partnership with the Students Commission of Canada, Pathways to Education Canada’s latest report exposes a widening equity gap driven by Canada’s affordability crisis—one that is hitting young people in low-income communities hardest and putting their futures at risk.

Grounded in insights directly from Pathways youth and those closest to them, this report sheds new light on the greatest barriers facing students in low-income communities in Canada. It also reveals how early, community-led supports can change outcomes for youth and why coordinated action across sectors is urgently needed to close the growing equity gap.

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Key findings

Academic needs are intensifying as systems struggle to keep up.

Students are often falling behind in core subjects and struggling to focus. A stretched education system makes it difficult to feel seen, and there is need for greater individualized learning supports.

Growing financial strain is impacting every part of student life
Rising costs limit access to essentials, and students are questioning their ability to afford a future. They need access to paid work opportunities and financial literacy support.
Social and emotional well-being needs are escalating
Youth are feeling increasingly anxious and disconnected. They need guidance in navigating their futures and access to safer spaces to connect with peers and adult role models.

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Take action today!

Governments and Policymakers

Centre equity and youth voice in policy and funding decisions to ensure education, employment, and well-being strategies reflect the realities of all youth.

Want to know how? Get in touch!

Funders and Corporate Partners
Commit to long-term, flexible investment in upstream, community-driven programs that help youth build an early foundation for long-term stability.

Want to know how? Get in touch!

Educators and Youth-Serving Organizations

Strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing across the sector to create a unified voice that amplifies impact in communities and beyond.

Let’s work together—get in touch to find out how!