The Cinematheque

Free Virtual Screening

Co-Presented by Fostering Change and The Cinematheque

In British Columbia, young people in foster care ​“age out” of the child welfare system when they turn 19. Ready or not, they are left to fend for themselves as adults, and are disproportionately at risk of experiencing adverse outcomes such as substance use issues, homelessness, and mental health struggles. Forthright and often heartbreaking, 19 and Homeless introduces us to eight young people — most Indigenous or LGBTQ2+ — who have paid the price for a failed system. As we follow them over a two-year period, they relate, in their own words, their journeys and their struggles, transforming troubling statistics into compelling human stories. Vancouver-based Maureen Palmer, a veteran broadcast producer and documentarian, directed 2016’s Wasted, about addiction treatment and her life partner’s struggle with alcoholism. 

Fostering Change is a team of youth organizers dedicated to challenging systemic injustice for youth in and from government care. Made up of former youth in care, the organizers are passionate about creating a better future in B.C. for youth transitioning from care through youth development and policy advocacy. Fostering Change is supported by stakeholders, volunteers, and allies, and hosted by First Call: BC Child and Youth Advocacy Coalition. 

More often than not, youths leaving government care in B.C. meet adverse outcomes in housing, mental health, and financial support. Partnering with The Cinematheque, Fostering Change hosts this presentation of the film 19 and Homeless to highlight the experiences of youth leaving care today. Directed by Maureen Palmer and produced by OUTtv, the film captures several young people navigating their challenges, barriers, and trauma, as well as sharing their moments of joy and what brings them hope.

We hope to bring awareness into action. You have the option to participate in a virtual panel beforehand and hear from the subjects of the documentary directly about their perspectives on change needed.

Virtual Panel June 29 (Monday) 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm PDT To join this live Zoom panel discussion, click here.

To stream this program:
Click on the ​“Stream” button above.
This will take you to Vimeo, where you can watch the film.
This program is free to watch. Donations to Fostering Change are gratefully accepted.