The Shelter Program responds to the urgent needs of refugee families by providing emergency shelter and initial settlement services.

In partnership with the City of Toronto, the 76 bed program supports more than 25 families daily. Through a comprehensive case management approach, residents are offered a wide-range of services to assist with their initial settlement in Canada. The Shelter Program offers holistic support to families during their stay at the Centre, and works to ensure that families are provided with immediate guidance and assistance to successfully navigate the refugee process and secure housing accommodations in the community. In addition to shelter, food, basic needs and case management services, residents also have access to a number of specialized programs such as Children’s Literacy, Music Literacy, After-School Fitness and Summer Day Camp for children; a Women’s Wellness Program; monthly educational workshops; and a myriad of community-building events which includes International Women’s Day, Canada Day, a Back-to-School BBQ, Multicultural Night, and holiday celebrations for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Food Service with a Smile at CRWC

Refugees Served

26

Different Source Countries

Top 5 Source Countries:

Mexico (17%)
Nigeria (17%)
Bahamas (15%)
Colombia (7%)
Angola (5%)

225

Average Number of Days in Shelter

Settlement Services

  • Basic needs assessment upon arrival to the shelter and referrals for further follow up
  • Assistance to access basic services such as health care, education, ESL, banking
  • Help to make refugee claims
  • Housing orientations and support to secure permanent housing
  • Provision of cross-cultural and health promotion workshops
  • On-site workshops are offered on parenting, budgeting, children & safety, and health issues.

Support Services

  • Advocacy
  • Participation in residents, family and children’s meetings
  • In-house computer lab
  • Gifts-in-kind (clothing, personal care items)
  • Summer Day Camp
  • Special events – outings, holiday celebrations, March break activities
  • New back pack for each child’s first day of school