Local author writes book on teen issues, including homelessness and more

TOLEDO, Ohio — The new book, ‘We Do Exists: Exposing the Invisible World of Unaccompanied Youth Homelessness’, focuses on local advocate Fonda Royster’s struggle as a teenager herself, as she dealt with homelessness, violence, and various other issues while being neglected by the adults who were supposed to care and support her. 

“You all know that advocacy is not just a hobby for me,” Royster said,” join me for raw, uneasy, but needed conversation.” 

Her book launch and signing will be on Friday,  May 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the “The Truth,” located at 7 E. Bancroft St. in Toledo. 

She said the event is more than just a launch and signing, it is poised to be a conversation about unaccompanied youth homelessness, and the  aim to give a voice to young people which should be the spark for some real change in Toledo.

“Let’s come together as a community, share resources, and take action to support these youth,” Royster said. 

According to  a 2021 CDC survey, among U.S. high school students who reported dating during the 12 months before the survey, about 1 in 12 experienced physical dating violence, with nearly 1 in 10 experienced sexual dating violence. Royster said here in Toledo, many need to wake up and realize these violent happenings are very common in U.S. teenage relationships and need  to be talked about. 

Royster has been running Open Arms Transformation Living  (OTAL),  a teen advocacy and shelter in Toledo for several years. It is aimed at providing stable short-term residential services to homeless, runaway, and exploited youth between the ages of 16 and 20 years old. 

Royster said writing about this topic is beyond personal. She added that the book launch is where this conversation will be held and all are welcome. The conversations will be honest and graphic, Royster warned, so young children are not encouraged to attend. Food and drink will be provided to this free event. 

“Come on out and engage to make a difference,” Royster said.