This innovative transitional housing program provides wrap-around supports for senior men with a history of homelessness and mental health or addictions issues.
Quick facts
Service type: Housing & Homelessness, Health & Wellness
Eligibility: Men 55+ who have experienced mental health or substance use issues, street involvement, homelessness or unstable housing
Delivery: In person, virtual and by phone
Fee: Tenants pay monthly rent for accommodation
Program dates: Year-round
Program description
First Step to Home is a four-year transitional housing programfor men 55+who have experienced mental health or substance use issues, street involvement, unstable housing and homelessness. In addition to safe and affordable housing,participants have access toon-site health servicesand wrap-around supports, including case management, counselling, harm reduction and addiction supports, lifeskills trainingand volunteer opportunities. First Step to Home supports clients to discover new strengths, recreate a sense of community and ultimately obtain affordable and sustainable housing.
Testimonial
In this video, a First Step to Home participant shares their experience with the program.
Location
650 Queen St. E.
Toronto, ON
M4M 1G5
How you can help
Donations are graciously accepted through the WoodGreen Foundation. Corporate volunteer inquiries can also be directed to the WoodGreen Foundation. For student placement and individual volunteer opportunities, please contact Jessica Ostrom at jostrom@woodgreen.org.
Ready to participate?
Registration
First Step to Home is not a drop–in program. It is a transitional housing program with an application process. Please download the application form here.
To learn more, please contact:
Contact information
Jessica Ostrom
Manager, Housing Support Programs
(416) 405-5015
jostrom@woodgreen.org
Hours
24/7 staffing model with a combination of community support workers, social workers and security
Partners
Referring parties for applicants:Streets to Homes, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Across Boundaries, Christie Ossington, Alternatives, Fred Victor
Service providers: St. Michael’s Hospital, Bridgepoint Hospital, VHA Home HealthCare, Spectrum, St. Elizabeth Hospital, South Riverdale Community Health Centre, WoodGreen Housing
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