“At the beginning [of COVID] it was really about safety. Do the youth we support have food, shelter, a home . . . are they safe?” says Nazreth, Counsellor / Registered Psychotherapist at YSM Evergreen Centre for Street Youth. Knowing the need for counselling was especially vital during this time,
“I have never seen so much food in my life,” says Chris reflecting on the roughly 15,000 to 16,000 pounds of food which have gone through YSM each week since the beginning of our modified food services. As YSM’s Food Services Manager, Chris has been involved in the planning and
When, in the fall of 2019, Dwight returned to work at YSM Evergreen Centre, there was a new vision to reach out to youth and individuals living under the Gardiner Expressway. “There are 50 – 70 people living in those areas [under the bridge and along the Lakeshore], I have
As the COVID-19 crisis continues to affect our city and our neighbours, YSM has been so grateful for your support in all the many ways you have been showing it: through messages of encouragement, funds, time, supplies and more. YSM has redistributed our staff to fill in gaps where volunteers
When Mark isn’t in a taekwondo class with his children, he works as a veterinary keeping Toronto’s furry neighbours healthy and happy. Seeing a community need, Mark, in partnership with Community Veterinary Outreach, started a free, bi-monthly veterinary clinic at YSM back in 2011. “It’s amazing to see the gratitude
Growing up in group homes, and without a stable family to rely on, Samantha struggled through her teenage years. When about to enter college, she learned she was pregnant and knew she needed to put off her education to find work. With no employment experience, it was a daunting task.
“YSM is a life-saver for me. I wish that I had met them sooner. YSM is making a big difference in my life and the lives of my children.” For nearly two years, Azan* had been struggling to navigate systems he knew little about, in hopes of being reunited with
In 2005, the City of Toronto began the Regent Park Revitalization Project to rebuild housing, support a vibrant community and create enjoyable spaces in the neighbourhood. A part of the early development was the Regent Park Aquatic Centre, offering recreational activities and classes. However, registration is mostly online and has
“My favorite thing about YSM is how friendly the staff are. They come in with a smile and know you by name. It’s good to come to a place you know you are welcome and safe.” Amanda has struggled with poverty for most of her life doing her best to
YSM’S Jubilee Designs offers a great team building workshop opportunity! Jubilee Designs employs street-involved youth artists who create decor and gift items from conception through to finely crafted handmade items. The youth are paid an hourly wage and their scheduling is largely based on the goals that they set for
