The call is coming from inside the Haus this Halloween…watch this space for big news tomorrow! 👻

Hey there !! We look forward to sharing our expertise with you. These responses will be coming from our MGP Youth Advocacy Leaders. They are formally known as Youth Voices Empowered a.k.a YVE. We appreciate the opportunity to be able to shed light on such a strong topic.

A1: The biggest aspect for youth is survival, with youth not having a proper support system they find themselves doing certain things to survive. Times are hard for a young person with no guidance or resources, being in survival mode is a coping mechanism for CSEY. #TNOYSTownHall

A2: There is not enough Youth Voice in the work that is being done to stop the amount of youth that are CSEY. To really see numbers change, the old mindsets and old ways of thinking have to change. Innovation is inevitable so allow the new generation in. #TNOYSTownHall

A3: There isn't a specific look for this. The Youth have their own ways of adapting, but it could look like an LGBTQ+ trading sex acts for resources and the increasing risk they put themselves in for survival. #TNOYSTownHall

A4: Making resources available as much as possible -Fighting stigma around YYA sexual experiences -Believing survivors when they tell us their stories -Addressing the correct safety measures for youth when needed #TNOYSTownHall

A5: More effective YYA mentoring programs that include access to resources with peer-support specialists doing the work. #TNOYSTownHall

A6: establishing boundaries with the youth that are to not be judged and to only be heard. Following up with guaranteed access to immediate resources and peer-support specialists to help them get what they need in the way that best fits the youth. #TNOYSTownHall#TNOYSTownHall

One of the best tools for providers to use is the cultural competency training. Also incorporating YYA advocates in staff meetings. These strategies will better the chances of providers getting more resources to CSEY. Educate YYA about the warning signs of CSEY !! #TNOYSTownHall

A8: Including Youth Advocacy groups will help providers be able to understand the community they are serving without hurting the community they are serving. Most Youth Advocacy groups

A1: Youth need access to free and advertised health care. Most youth aren't aware of what is available to them because it is not advertised correctly.

YYA need judgement free zones where they are treated as people and not data. This will make youth feel more supported and safer to receive the resources. #TNOYStownhall #mentalhealthawareness

Q3: YYA should have access to learning courses dedicated to becoming healthy and staying healthy, having access to mentoring programs can really help youth feel more secure in staying healthy. #TNOYSTownhall #Mentalhealthawareness

Q4: Placing these services in more accessible areas i.e more rural and urban areas as well making sure the YYA have access to these services in schools which can also ensure equity within the community. #TNOYStownhall #Mentalhealthawareness

Q5: YYA face many different challenges when it comes to being a parent. One of the more common issues faced is trying to keep their families together. So many youths are trying their hardest to provide for themselves and their children. YYA dealing with CPS is another factor(1/2)

(2/2) Dealing with CPS is another factor that makes keeping families together and becoming better parents harder. CPS/court system has to add preventative measures (parenting course, health care programs for the families, etc.) for parents who need help.

Q6: YYA needs access to more mentorship programs. Having a mentor help you through the transition into adulthood. this can lower anxiety and stress levels by having a support system to guide you. #TNOYStownhall #mentalhealthawareness

Q7: How Simple can We put this.... ATTENTIVELY LISTEN, TAKE ACTION!!!

Q8: FIGHT WITH US NOT FOR US!!! #TNOYSTownhall