TEJIKA CHAND FROM VOLUNTEER TO COVID-19 FRONTLINE HERO

Tejika Chand is a youth worker and shift coordinator at Covenant House Toronto, the largest agency in Canada serving youth who are homeless, trafficked, or at risk.

Tejika started as a volunteer who helped youth at Covenant House explore their artistic capabilities while completing her Bachelor of Psychology at York University. After graduation, she was hired as a part-time youth worker and then moved to full-time in March 2018.

Tejika is a tireless worker who always has the best interests of the youth at Covenant House in mind. She is a very well-rounded employee who is passionate about helping youth experiencing homelessness with the issues they face, such as mental health.

From the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, Tejika has stepped up by taking on more shifts and working doubles. The outbreak has increased the need for her to check in on those who struggle with depression and anxiety. It’s such a challenging time for the youth, especially due to the isolation they’re experiencing.

Everyone who comes to Covenant House has experienced some trauma, and because of COVID-19, the need to keep physically distant from others can be extra tricky for young people who were already experiencing challenges. So, Tejika has come up with creative art-based wellness programs, such as slime-making (to help youth de-stress), sand mosaics, and colouring exercises designed to engage youth and help them spend their time in meaningful ways.

Although COVID-19 has made her work more challenging, she wouldn’t trade it for anything else, because she loves making a difference in the lives of youth experiencing homelessness.

These are extraordinary times. Youth who are homeless or trafficked need your support now more than ever.

Donate today at CovenantHouseToronto.ca

About Covenant House

Covenant House is Canada’s largest agency, serving youth who are homeless, trafficked, or at risk. Covenant House helps youth ignite their potential and reclaim their lives by offering the widest range of 24-7 services, and life-changing, unconditional care. They offer housing options, health and well-being support, training and skill development, and ongoing care once youth move into the community. Since 1982, Covenant House has supported more than 95,000 young people.