Voices from the Margins: Experiences of Street-Involved Youth In Winnipeg

Abstract

In this study we sought to hear the voices of street-involved youth. We wanted to give them a forum through which to tell their stories. We wanted to know: 1) How they came to be involved with the street? 2) What their lives were like at that point in time? 3) What things made life on the street easier or harder? 4) What might facilitate their transition off the street and keep them off?

A key feature of this study is that it was conducted from the perspective of street experienced youth. We interviewed twelve young people who had been involved with the street at some point in their lives. Their stories highlight their personal struggles to survive and transcend the harsh realities of the street. The data for this study come from their narratives about their experiences. In addition, four former street youth served as research interns who assisted in the development of the research project and with interviewing.