Strengthening Equity: Developing a Resilient System to End Black Youth Homelessness

Black Youth Housing Equity Summit 2025

Date: November 20th-21st, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Each Day)
Venue: TBD

ABOUT THE SUMMIT

Join us for a groundbreaking two-day summit addressing the critical housing crisis facing Black youth across our communities. This collaborative gathering brings together Black youth with lived experience, community organizations, service providers, and key stakeholders to develop concrete solutions and policy recommendations. Through innovative presentations, youth-led initiatives, and collaborative dialogue, we're working toward a future where every young person has access to safe, affordable housing with dignity and respect.

Thursday, November 20, 2025

Day One focuses on building solidarity and alignment among stakeholders. Participants will share insights, elevate lived experiences, and reinforce collective commitment toward inclusive and equitable housing solutions.

Theme: Solidarity and Alignment for Black Youth Housing Equity

Program Overview

Highlights:

  • Presentations from Black-led organizations (B3)

  • Interactive workshops and dialogue sessions

  • Premiere screening of REST documentary

  • Youth-led action sessions with REST Youth Council

  • Networking opportunities

Friday, November 21, 2025

Day 1

Day 2

Theme: From Framework to Action: Advancing Culturally Responsive Head Leasing Solutions

Day Two translates insights into actionable strategies through housing model presentations, research findings, and youth-led dialogue sessions focused on trauma-informed practices.

Highlights:

  • Bridge of Hope head leasing model presentation

  • Youth policy brief development

  • Co-creation of sector guidance

  • Partnership strengthening sessions

  • Action planning workshops

Who Should Attend

  • Black youth with lived experience of housing insecurity

  • Community organizations and service providers

  • Policy makers and government representatives

  • Housing advocates and researchers

  • Social workers and support staff

  • Community leaders and allies

What's Included

  • Two full days of programming and workshops

  • Morning snacks and refreshments

  • Networking lunch (Day One)

  • All summit materials and resources

  • Opportunity to contribute to policy brief development

REGISTRATION

Complete the registration form below to secure your spot. Space is limited to ensure meaningful participation and dialogue.

About Rest Centres

REST Centres is dedicated to supporting Black youth through comprehensive housing and support services. Through innovative programs like Bridge of Hope and FIRM (Family Intervention and Reunification Management), we work to address systemic inequities and create pathways to stable housing for vulnerable youth in our communities.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that this event takes place on the traditional territories of Indigenous Nations/Peoples, and we respect their enduring connection to this land.