New research reveals high levels of social isolation
YMCA offers connection through community programs and services
New research commissioned by YMCA Canada and the YMCA of Greater Toronto reveals that six in 10 Canadians surveyed have little or no sense of community, a finding that is prompting the charity to highlight its programs and services to combat social isolation.
The survey, conducted among Angus Reid Forum members, reveals that 60 per cent of Canadians feel disconnected from their community, with 16 per cent reporting that they never feel a sense of community and 44 per cent experiencing it only sometimes.
The data shows that feelings of disconnection are particularly acute among Canadians under 55, with 68 per cent of 18- to 34-year-olds and 64 per cent of 25- to 54-year-olds feeling a lack of belonging. These feelings were most pronounced among the unemployed, with a striking 76 per cent feeling disconnected from their communities.
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