• crisis counseling
• legal and immigration support
• medical assistance
• ESL classes
• child care programs
• housing referrals
• partnering with many community agencies

"The Red Door Helps Those Who Need Help to Help Themselves" What Goes on Behind the Red Door?
Since 1982, the Red Door has provided a broad range of desperately needed services. Families come to the Shelter through referral from agencies such as Children's Aid Societies, Public Health Department, Police and other shelters. Families also access our services on the advice of friends or through word of mouth. Most Families, given time and support, achieve independent living and return to the mainstream of society within a period of five to six weeks. Circumstances dictate the length of stay. Some families only remain overnight, while others have lived at the shelter for four months. A dedicated and caring staff address the particular needs of the families in crisis. The staff assist residents in setting achievable and meaningful goals, thus instilling a sense of self-worth in both parent and child, and motivation the residents to help themselves.

Who is the Red Door?
The Red Door provides 170 beds at two sites in Toronto for homeless families, refugees,the elderly, abused women and their children and young mothers with newborn babies. Services offered, in addition to short term emergency shelter, include: crisis counseling, legal and immigration support, medical assistance, ESL classes, child care programs, housing referrals and other supports.

How does the Red Door Provide these Services?
The Red Door attempts to meet the needs of the total family by providing intensive in-house crisis counseling and problem solving. This includes referrals to specialized services in cases where the staff identifies abuse, alcoholism, depression, torture and parenting concerns. The Shelter partners with the Public Health Department, Toronto Board of Education, community health clinics, Children's Aid Societies, The Creche Child and Family Center, Aisling Discoveries Child and Family Center, legal aid clinics, the Toronto Police Services, Victim Services of Metropolitan Toronto and many other community agencies.

Financial Information:
Per diem charges to government provide approximately 80% of the shelter's operating costs. The balance is provided by the activities of an active and enthusiastic fund raising committee. Management and administration expenses make up only 20% of the total operating costs.

Mission Statement:
The WoodGreen Red Door Family Shelter provides safe and supportive emergency housing to individuals and families in need of refuge from domestic violence and to those who find themselves without accommodation. The Red Door assists residents in their efforts to establish a stable life outside the shelter through education, counseling, community services and advocacy on their behalf.

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