Family Service Toronto is a lead member of the Citywide Commons – a group of non-profit agencies providing a wide variety of supports at 355 Church Street, Toronto.
We are more than a neighbourhood hub as we represent a citywide suite of organizations collaborating on service provision and committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.
We foster a welcoming and inclusive culture so you can connect, belong and thrive. Explore your options at the Commons.
Citywide Commons services brochure
This brochure includes the list of agencies and services they provide at 355 Church Street and which are also listed below.
Offers counselling, seniors support, families in transition program, LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS services. Engages in community development, public education and advocacy work.
3rd floor | 416 595 9230
[email protected]
Supports newcomers and immigrants through settlement assistance, employment services, skills development, youth programs, Canadian citizenship classes, and women-only English classes.
2nd Floor, Suite 201 | 647 224 1371
[email protected]
Offers supportive housing, case management and other services for and with adults who are coping and living with mental health and substance use issues.
2nd Floor, Suite 213. | 416 977 1333
[email protected]
Offers case management and counselling, support groups, practical supports and children and youth focused programs for children and their families affected by HIV/AIDS.
2nd Floor, Suite 208 | 416 596 7703
[email protected]
Offers grief support to Torontonians who have experienced life-changing loss after the death of a loved one through peer volunteer-led services, professionally designed and supported.
2nd Floor, Suite 202 | 416 440 0290
[email protected]
Supports a community of mental health professionals who offer low-cost counselling. Facilitates mental health conversations, service navigation, events, and resource sharing in their storefront retail shop.
Ground Floor | 647 740 FEEL (3335)
www.hardfeelings.org
Services offered by FST, TTG, MCS, NEW, HF
Services offered by MCS, FST, NEW, TTG
Services offered by NEW, TTG, MCS, FST, HF
Services offered by FST, TTG
Services offered by FST, NEW, TTG
Services offered by BFO, TTG
Services offered by TTG, FST
Services offered by FST, TTG, MCS, NEW, HF
At Family Service Toronto our clients are the reason for our existence and their feedback informs our actions and activity plans. To ensure client voices are reflected in our work, we conduct annual Client Satisfaction Surveys.
If you are an FST client, this survey gives us a chance to hear directly from you about your experiences, your needs, and your expectations from our programs and services.
Your feedback helps shape the way we work. It influences our planning for programs and services, strengthens our relationships, and ensures we continue to support all our clients and community members. Whether it’s acknowledging what’s working well or identifying areas for improvement, your insights guide us forward.
English Français Español العربية فارسی தமிழ்
Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts.
Your voice matters — and we’re listening.
Directions to FST Sterling Office:
There are several ways to reach our new location by TTC:
Streetcars: 506 and 505
Both the eastbound and westbound 506 CARLTON/COLLEGE and 505 DUNDAS streetcars stop at Sterling Road where you walk North about three minutes to our office.
Subway: Line 2
Get off at DUNDAS WEST SUBWAY STATION and then:
You can also call the TTC at 416-393-INFO (4636) for directions.
If you drive a vehicle, limited visitor parking is available and it requires QR code scanning at FST Reception. If you come by bike, there are bike racks available near the building entrance.
The building is wheelchair accessible.
Family Service Toronto (FST) is a designated broader public-sector organization as provided for under section 12 of the Broader Public Sector Accountability Act, 2010 and follows the Ontario broader public sector (BPS) supply chain code of ethics and the requirements for travel and expenses, purchasing/procurement and perquisites. FST has posted its relevant policies for transparency and to be compliant with BPS directives. In addition, the BPS Business Documents Directive requires BPS organizations to enhance their financial and performance reporting to the public.
FST has posted its relevant policies and quarterly service and financial reports for transparency and to be compliant with BPS directives.
Goal: To ensure an ethical, professional and accountable BPS supply chain.
Individuals involved with Supply Chain Activities must act, and be seen to act, with integrity and professionalism. Honesty, care and due diligence must be integral to all Supply Chain Activities within and between FST’s suppliers and other stakeholders. Respect must be demonstrated for each other and for the environment. Confidential information must be safeguarded. Participants must not engage in any activity that may create, or appear to create, a conflict of interest, such as accepting gifts or favours, providing preferential treatment, or publicly endorsing suppliers or products.
Supply Chain Activities must be open and accountable. In particular, contracting and purchasing activities must be fair, transparent and conducted with a view to obtaining the best value for public money. All participants must ensure that public sector resources are used in a responsible, efficient and effective manner.
Individuals involved with purchasing or other Supply Chain Activities must comply with this Code of Ethics and the laws of Canada and Ontario. Individuals should continuously work to improve supply chain policies and procedures to improve their supply chain knowledge and skills levels, and to share leading practices.
Family Service Toronto (FST) recognizes that staff and board members may incur various costs in the fulfillment of their responsibilities. Allowable expenses include travel, meals, accommodation, conferences/training and hospitality. All expenses incurred must be directly related to FST’s work, must be modest and appropriate, and must balance economy, efficiency, as well as health and safety and environmental considerations. The most economical and practical option should be selected whenever possible. This policy seeks to establish fair and consistent rules for expenses and travel. Read the full policy.
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Family Service Toronto’s programmatic and organizational requirements demand the purchase of a broad range of supplies and services. All approved expenditures and commitments must be consistent with the FST operational plan and within approved budgets. Any significant exceptions must be formally approved by the Executive Director or the Board of Directors.
It is expected that due diligence be done to make purchases and acquire services through an open, fair and transparent process. A contract of more than $100,000 can only be awarded as a result of an open competitive bidding process, and any contract between $10,000 and $100,000 must be through an invitational competitive process. A contract of less than $10,000 can be entered without any restrictions. The value of the procurement cannot be reduced to circumvent the competitive thresholds. The board has the authority to waive these requirements in special circumstances. Read the FST Policy – Purchasing and Procurement
The terms and conditions of employment for all employees of Family Service Toronto (FST) are set out in:
Employees are also subject to applicable legislation and other legal requirements of all relevant regulatory or certifying bodies/associations.
No employee shall have perquisites (e.g., fitness club memberships, tickets to cultural or sports events, clothing allowances) that are not related to business requirements. Read the full policy.
FST Board members shall not receive perquisites during their term of service to the organization. Read the full policy
Family Service Toronto is subject to the Public Sector Salary Disclosure Act. More information is available on the Ontario Ministry of Finance website under Public Sector Salary Disclosure.
Family Service Toronto reports to its volunteer Board of Directors on the service and financial performance of the organization on a quarterly basis. This also includes reporting on organization risk associated with operations.
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service and Financial Report
Q2 Service and Financial Report
Q3 Service and Financial Report
Q4 Service and Financial Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director Report
Q1 Service and Financial Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service and Financial Report
Q4 Service and Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
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To help you prepare for your safety in a variety of situations, Victim Services Toronto (VHS) created the checklists below for you to consider. These lists are in PDF format and can easily be printed or saved to your computer for reference. You will need Adobe Acrobat to open this files. Clicking on the links below will open the PDF in a new browser window.
These files, shared courtesy of Victim Services Toronto, are also available in other languages by clicking the links on Victim Services Toronto Safety Planning.
Call 911 for any situation requiring immediate assistance (police, fire, and/or ambulance).
Distress centre of Toronto: 416-408-HELP (4357)
Provides confidential service available 24 hours a day to persons in distress. Access to a confidential interpreter for callers in crisis offered in 151 languages.
Call 211 or go to 211toronto.ca
Call the Police at 911 in an emergency
211 Toronto Abuse and Sexual Abuse services
416-863-0511 or 1-866-863-0511 outside 416 area
Toll-free: 1-888-364-1210
Website: http://www.awhl.org/
Confidential and anonymous; telephone crisis counselling, information and support; referral to emergency shelters; legal information and community services, as well as culturally appropriate resources for abused women; liaison with diverse communities.
416-392-6877
Website: http://www.the519.org/
It responds to hate crimes based on sexual or gender orientation and to same-sex or pansexual partner abuse.
Bashing Report Line for victims or witnesses of homophobic assaults: http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/rhvp/rhvp_pamphlet.pdf
416-392-6655
Website: https://foodshare.net
Linked with Community Info 211 to provide 24-hour assistance for locating food banks or free hot meals.
416-203-0050
Website: http://www.dailybread.ca/
Provides names and locations of food banks in Toronto Area. Requires an interview. Home address and income statement must be provided.
416-355-6783
Website: http://www.the519.org/
A year-round programme featuring meals, movies, meeting place and resource information for homeless people.
416-355-6778
Website: http://www.the519.org/programs/meal-trans
Meal Trans is a multi-service drop-in primarily for lower-income and street-active transsexual and transgendered people. We provide a place for ts/tg people to get together over a healthy meal, access resources, information, and referrals, discuss issues relevant to our lives, learn with and from each other, and build a stronger community.
416-699-OOTC
Provides safe refuge, hospitality and emergency shelter to the homeless community at different sites throughout the City of Toronto List of OOTC sites is available online.
416-928-3334
Website: http://416community.com/
Dundas St. (Parliament & Dundas).Offers a range of services for women including meals, recreations, showers, telephones, etc.
416-364-8228
Website: http://www.fredvictor.org/
146 Queen St (Jarvis & Queen) offers a range of services including low-cost meals.
To make an inquiry or get information about shelter services, please call Hostel Services’ general line at 416-392-8741.
416-338-4766
A 24-hour hotline providing information and referrals to shelters for singles.
From a payphone, call the Toll Free number 1-877 338-3398.
Nightly walk-in from 8:30pm to 7:30am at 67 Adelaide Street East (temporary location)
416-397-5637
A central referral service for families who are homeless or at risk of losing their home. Information and referral to family shelters.
416-392-0090
Across the entire City, seven days a week, 365 days a year, street outreach workers from community-based services and the City’s Streets to Homes unit help homeless people living outside get a safer place to sleep and find long-term housing.
Toronto Social Housing: 416-981-6111
East York Housing: 416-424-2008
York Housing: 416 653-5400
Scarborough Housing: 416-285-8070 ext. 302
North: 416-741-1553
South: 416-252-6471
Community Resource of Connection Toronto: 416-482-4103
Centre for Spanish Speaking People: 416-533-8545
Evangel Hall: 416-504-3563
Romero House: 416-763-1303; 416-763-2939 (referrals for refugee claimants new to Canada)
416-978-6447
720 Spadina Ave. #418
Website: http://downtownlegalservices.ca/
Student Legal Aid Society clinic, funded by Legal Aid Ontario. Legal advice and representation provided by supervised law student volunteers covering many areas of law including: tenant issues, social assistance, pensions, employment rights, minor criminal offenses, some small claims actions, Legal Aid appeals, Employment Insurance (EI), academic and student loan appeals, Criminal Injuries Compensation Board referrals, public legal education workshops.
To apply for Legal Aid Certificate call: 416-979-1446
Pat’s Place is a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. At Pat’s Place we offer a welcoming environment where residents can take time out from their current situation.
At Pat’s Place we believe that all older people have the right to live a life free of harm. We are striving to create an environment where an older person can live with dignity and in peace.
Pat’s Place offers a cozy, modern bachelor apartment with the following features:
No, it is important to realize that Pat’s Place is not a shelter. It is an apartment in a secure location in Toronto. It is not staffed like a shelter (i.e. staff on site 24/7).
People 60 years of age and older who are being abused emotionally, physically, sexually, financially or in other ways by a family member can use Pat’s Place. Pat’s Place is open to women, men and transgender persons.
People who move to Pat’s Place must be able to care for themselves. If a person requires some supports we will work with them to determine if we can put them in place. If the person can function independently when support services are not present, they will be considered for entry to the program.
Due to the nature of this program, the location of Pat’s Place is confidential. The unit is located in an apartment building in Toronto, steps away from TTC, shops and grocery stores.
How long can a person stay at Pat’s Place?
Pat’s Place is a temporary, short-term safe haven. People who move to Pat’s Place can stay for up to 60 days.
Pat’s Place is not a long-term form of accommodation. It is critical to be thinking about future plans from the time a person moves in. Staff will work with the resident to set goals that are realistic and achievable within the 60 day stay.
Residents will be asked to sign a document that acknowledges they can stay for up to 60 days.
Any person experiencing abuse who is 60 years of age or older can call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618 to inquire about Pat’s Place.
We encourage service providers who are working with someone who is experiencing abuse to call, with the person’s consent, to determine if this program would be a proper match.
What will happen after a first contact is made with Family Service Toronto?
During a first contact with Family Service Toronto the caller will be asked to provide basic information about who the potential resident is (i.e. name, age, address, contact information and issues the person is facing).
If a service provider calls to refer someone to Pat’s Place it is important to secure verbal consent from the older person prior to making a call to Family Service Toronto.
A counsellor from the Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Unit will contact the caller to gather more information. They will make an appointment to meet with the potential resident either in their current home, in the community, in one of our offices or any other safe place.
During this appointment we will share more information about Pat’s Place and work with the potential resident to determine if it is the right fit.
A counsellor from the Seniors and Caregivers Support Service at Family Service Toronto will be assigned to work with the resident. If the person is connected to one or more organizations in the community we will work with them to determine how we can best support the resident. A range of services are available such as:
There is no charge for rent at Pat’s Place. People are asked to contribute to the day-to-day costs (i.e. buying food, clothing, medications, doing laundry and so on). Family Service Toronto is currently fundraising to be able to cover these costs and to install an emergency response system.
To make a referral, either for yourself or someone else, call our Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618.
For more than twenty- five years, Family Service Toronto’s (FST) Seniors and Caregivers Support Services (SCSS) has been working with seniors who are experiencing abuse in their later years. Through a combination of counselling supports, group work and educational sessions, the team has touched the lives of thousands of clients. Working with seniors to help them stay safe in their living situations, dealing with the inherent anxiety, depression and trauma that abuse generates in those experiencing it and working with clients to live free of abuse has been at the core of the work. In 2008, FST opened Pat’s Place, a safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. Situated in a confidential location in Toronto, Pat’s Place is a one-bedroom apartment, rented by FST, and provided free of charge to qualifying individuals for up to 60 days.
This report provides a summary of how Pat’s Place operates, an analysis of who has accessed the program from 2008-2018 and an evaluation framework that was created to aid in the potential expansion of this concept.
Depuis plus de vingt-cinq ans, le personnel des services de soutien aux personnes âgées et soignants de Family Service Toronto travaille avec les personnes âgées qui sont victimes de maltraitance. Grâce à un ensemble de services de counseling, de séances de groupes et des séances éducatives, l’équipe a réussi à toucher la vie de plusieurs clients et clientes. Les services fournis aux personnes âgées sont pour les aidées à garder des conditions de vie sécuritaires, pour les aidées à faire face à l’anxiété, la dépression et les traumatismes inhérents aux victimes de maltraitance, ainsi que pour les aidées à vivre une vie sans violence, se trouvent au cœur du travail du personnel FST. En 2008, FST a ouvert Pat’s Place, un refuge pour les personnes âgées maltraitées. Situé dans un endroit confidentiel à Toronto, Pat’s Place est un appartement d’une chambre qui est loué par FST. L’appartement est fourni gratuitement aux personnes éligibles pour un maximum de 60 jours.
Ce rapport fournit un résumé du fonctionnement de Pat’s Place, ce qui est une analyse des personnes qui ont accédées au programme de 2008 à 2018 et un cadre d’évaluation qui a été créé pour aider à l’expansion potentielle de ce concept.
Thank you for choosing Family Service Toronto for your room rental needs. We appreciate your feedback and hope you will take a few minutes to help us improve.
Family Service Toronto follows a comprehensive set of policies and procedures based on the vision, mission and values that guide our people and our work. They ensure we are compliant with all relevant legislation and support our mandate to deliver quality programs and services to our clients and the communities we serve.
These include the following:
Accessible Customer Service Policy
Client Rights and Responsibilities Policy
Confidentiality and Privacy Policy
FST values and respects the privacy and confidentiality of all clients. If you have any questions about the policy or practices of FST, you can contact FST’s Privacy Officer, Lisa Manuel, at [email protected] or by calling 416 595 4049.
Discriminatory Requests for Service
Health and Safety Policy Statement.
Service User and Community Member Complaints
Please note FST is a perfume-free and low-scent environment
Family Service Toronto supports the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and is committed to meeting the requirements of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation. We will work to prevent and remove barriers and to provide fair and effective accommodation for people with disabilities. Equity and inclusiveness are core to our organization’s values and promotion of integration is reflected in all that we do. Read our Accessibility Policy Framework.
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
We support and strive to implement the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) guidelines. We endeavour to ensure that the content on our website satisfies Level A and AA Success Criteria as required by Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Read our Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, 2023 – 2028 and the 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report.
While we make all efforts to comply with current web accessibility standards, our website pages may not always pass online validation tools due to some aspects of the content management technology used to manage our website. We may also post some third-party content presented contextually on our sites via other technologies, including mapping systems, event forms and other applications which are out of our control. We look to develop accessible solutions as technology improves. We also encourage our service providers to comply with industry-wide accessibility standards as part of our business relationship.
Some of our content, or website content developed by other agencies which we link to, is in PDF format only. We are working towards reducing our dependence on PDFs for use on our web site, and training staff to provide content in more accessible formats. If you require FST documents in an alternative format we will make them available upon request.
Please contact Service Access Unit:
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
TTY: 416-751-0635
Fax: 416-595-0242
Le programme d’intervention auprès des partenaires violents (IPV) est une initiative des tribunaux relativement aux cas de violence conjugale, et dans le cadre de laquelle sont offerts des services communautaires spécialisés de counseling et d’èducation en groupe aux contrevenants qui le tribunal a ordonnè de participer au programme IPV suite uneaccusation criminelle de violence conjugale.
Chez Family Service Toronto (FST), ce programme s’appelle Next Steps Ce programme fonctionne comme une partie intègrante du Centre sur la violence familiale (Family Violence Centre) de FST.
Ce programme, subventionnè par les Services aux victimes – Ontario du Ministère de la Procureure gènèrale, est une obligation imposèe par le tribunal. Il vise amèliorer la sècuritè des victimes et tenir les contrevenants responsables de leurs actes en fournissant aux participants les opportunitès suivantes:
Les principaux objectifs du programme IPV :
Le programme est organisè afin de fournir les services suivants :
Un groupe en français est offert plusieurs fois par an dans notre bureau du centre ville. Pendant combien de semaines devrais-je participer au programme Next Steps/ IPV? Il y a une sèance d’admission/ èvaluation suivie de 12 sèances en groupe. Tous les participants doivent assister toutes les sèances.
Oui, vous devez payer des frais pour ce programme en fonction d’une èchelle mobile. On vous demandera le revenu de votre mènage et le nombre de personnes qui en dèpendent. Vous devrez nous montrer une preuve de votre revenu votre première visite afin de confirmer vos frais et remplir notre contrat. Vous devez payer tous vos frais en totalitè pour que le rapport final soit expèdiè l’agent de probation et/ou au Tribunal.
Oui, il y a plusieurs raisons pour lesquelles un participant peut être expulsè du programme :
Avant son admission au programme, chaque client est informè de ces conditions et signe un document reconnaissant qu’il les comprend.
Le Programme IPV porte sur les sujets obligatoires suivants :
Les responsables du groupe remplissent un rapport final qui est envoyè aux Tribunaux. Le juge examine ce rapport et dètermine si vous avez rempli les conditions de l’ordonnance du tribunal.
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
En tant que victime d’un crime, quels droits ai-je ?
La Charte de 1995 des droits des victimes d’actes criminels de l’Ontario établit un ensemble de principes visant à soutenir les victimes d’actes criminels tout au long du processus de justice. Elle exige que les victimes soient traitées avec :
En savoir plus sur les principes qui s’appliquent au traitement des victimes d’actes criminels.
La Charte de 1995 des droits des victimes d’actes criminels de l’Ontario précise également que les victimes doivent disposer de renseignements sur tous les points suivants :
Voici le lien pour plus de détails des droits des victimes d’actes criminels
Le gouvernement fédéral a également une Déclaration des droits des victimes d’actes criminels. Vous pouvez en savoir plus sur le Gouvernement du Canada site web de la Justice ou vous pouvez lire cette fiche d’information.
Si votre partenaire ou ex-partenaire participe au programme Next Steps/ Intervention auprès des partenaires violents (IPV) auprès du Family Service Toronto, notre personnel de prise de contact avec le partenaire vous contactera par tèlèphone pour discuter du programme avec vous. Si nous ne pouvons vous joindre par tèlèphone, nous vous enverrons une lettre si nous avons votre adresse.
Le programme vise les objectifs suivants :
Un membre de l’èquipe de prise de contact avec le partenaire, qui comprend bien les problèmes de violence conjugale et qui ne travaille pas dans le cadre du programme IPV, entrera en contact avec vous.
Il vous appartient de dècider si vous souhaitez parler ou non un de ces travailleurs. Nous suivons votre dècision.
La personne qui vous contacte vous donnera des renseignements sur la participation de votre partenaire/ex-partenaire dans le groupe, et notamment sur les points suivants :
Les discussions que vous avez avec notre personnel de contact du partenaire sont confidentielles, sauf dans les situations sp©cifiques pour lesquelles il est important que vous soyez informè(e). Nous avons l’obligation de divulguer les informations que vous nous donnez aux agents de probation et/ou la Couronne dans les circonstances suivantes :
Oui, le personnel garde des notes sur chaque entretien qu’ils ont eu avec vous ou quand il y a eu une tentative de vous contacter. Ces notes sont gardèes de manière sèparèe de celles concernant votre partenaire/ ex-partenaire et vous êtes la seule personne pouvoir y accèder.
Pour plus d’assistance et de soutien dans l’accès aux ressources, veuillez consulter http://www.femaide.cau ou appeler le 1 877 336 2433 ou le1 866 860 7082 pour les sourds
et malentendants
Pour de plus amples informations sur le programme Next Steps/ Intervention auprès des partenaires violents de Family Service Toronto, veuillez consulter Next Steps programme.
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
Le programme d’intervention auprès des partenaires violents (IPV) est une initiative des tribunaux relativement aux cas de violence conjugale, et dans le cadre de laquelle sont offerts des services communautaires spécialisés de counseling et d’èducation en groupe aux contrevenants qui le tribunal a ordonnè de participer au programme IPV suite uneaccusation criminelle de violence conjugale.
Chez Family Service Toronto (FST), ce programme s’appelle Next Steps Ce programme fonctionne comme une partie intègrante du Centre sur la violence familiale (Family Violence Centre) de FST.
Ce programme, subventionnè par les Services aux victimes – Ontario du Ministère de la Procureure gènèrale, est une obligation imposèe par le tribunal. Il vise amèliorer la sècuritè des victimes et tenir les contrevenants responsables de leurs actes en fournissant aux participants les opportunitès suivantes:
Les principaux objectifs du programme IPV :
Le programme est organisè afin de fournir les services suivants :
Un groupe en français est offert plusieurs fois par an dans notre bureau du centre ville. Pendant combien de semaines devrais-je participer au programme Next Steps/ IPV? Il y a une sèance d’admission/ èvaluation suivie de 12 sèances en groupe. Tous les participants doivent assister toutes les sèances.
Oui, vous devez payer des frais pour ce programme en fonction d’une èchelle mobile. On vous demandera le revenu de votre mènage et le nombre de personnes qui en dèpendent. Vous devrez nous montrer une preuve de votre revenu votre première visite afin de confirmer vos frais et remplir notre contrat. Vous devez payer tous vos frais en totalitè pour que le rapport final soit expèdiè l’agent de probation et/ou au Tribunal.
Oui, il y a plusieurs raisons pour lesquelles un participant peut être expulsè du programme :
Avant son admission au programme, chaque client est informè de ces conditions et signe un document reconnaissant qu’il les comprend.
Le Programme IPV porte sur les sujets obligatoires suivants :
Les responsables du groupe remplissent un rapport final qui est envoyè aux Tribunaux. Le juge examine ce rapport et dètermine si vous avez rempli les conditions de l’ordonnance du tribunal.
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
En tant que victime d’un crime, quels droits ai-je ?
La Charte de 1995 des droits des victimes d’actes criminels de l’Ontario établit un ensemble de principes visant à soutenir les victimes d’actes criminels tout au long du processus de justice. Elle exige que les victimes soient traitées avec :
En savoir plus sur les principes qui s’appliquent au traitement des victimes d’actes criminels.
La Charte de 1995 des droits des victimes d’actes criminels de l’Ontario précise également que les victimes doivent disposer de renseignements sur tous les points suivants :
Voici le lien pour plus de détails des droits des victimes d’actes criminels
Le gouvernement fédéral a également une Déclaration des droits des victimes d’actes criminels. Vous pouvez en savoir plus sur le Gouvernement du Canada site web de la Justice ou vous pouvez lire cette fiche d’information.
Family Service Toronto has room rentals available for meetings, workshops, conferences or special events at easy-to-access locations downtown (355 Church St.) and in the city’s west-end (128A Sterling Road).
Rooms may be booked for a full day, (8 hours) or half day (4 hours), or by the hour, Monday through Friday. Access to FST buildings is 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m. All rooms are fully accessible and equipped with WiFi, digital projection, screens, speakers, tables, chairs, flip charts and include access to a non-commercial kitchen with fridge, dishwasher, microwave and oven.
For more information or for booking please contact:
| Silvia Volpentesta Facilities Coordinator, Corporate Services T: 416.595.9230 x 246 E: [email protected] |
Payment must be received in advance of the date(s) booked. Make cheque payable to Family Service Toronto and mail to 355 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5B 0B2. Credit card payments are accepted.
There will be no refund unless written notice of cancellation is received seven business days prior to the date(s) booked. For cancellations with less than seven days notice, a refund will be issued and will include an administration fee of $30.
Please use public parking or street parking for vehicles. FST doesn’t provide reserved parking. Bike parking is available at street level. Bikes are not permitted inside our buildings.
By renting our rooms you agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify Family Service Toronto from any and all liability, costs or other claims resulting from any and all claims originating as a result of your use of the premises, equipment, or any and all other facilities provided by Family Service Toronto.
Users are required to provide an insurance certificate with their application.
Users are welcome to bring in their own choice of food and beverages A variety of cafes are within walking distance for carry-out beverages. FST doesn’t provide coffee/tea service.
Si votre partenaire ou ex-partenaire participe au programme Next Steps/ Intervention auprès des partenaires violents (IPV) auprès du Family Service Toronto, notre personnel de prise de contact avec le partenaire vous contactera par tèlèphone pour discuter du programme avec vous. Si nous ne pouvons vous joindre par tèlèphone, nous vous enverrons une lettre si nous avons votre adresse.
Le programme vise les objectifs suivants :
Un membre de l’èquipe de prise de contact avec le partenaire, qui comprend bien les problèmes de violence conjugale et qui ne travaille pas dans le cadre du programme IPV, entrera en contact avec vous.
Il vous appartient de dècider si vous souhaitez parler ou non un de ces travailleurs. Nous suivons votre dècision.
La personne qui vous contacte vous donnera des renseignements sur la participation de votre partenaire/ex-partenaire dans le groupe, et notamment sur les points suivants :
Les discussions que vous avez avec notre personnel de contact du partenaire sont confidentielles, sauf dans les situations sp©cifiques pour lesquelles il est important que vous soyez informè(e). Nous avons l’obligation de divulguer les informations que vous nous donnez aux agents de probation et/ou la Couronne dans les circonstances suivantes :
Oui, le personnel garde des notes sur chaque entretien qu’ils ont eu avec vous ou quand il y a eu une tentative de vous contacter. Ces notes sont gardèes de manière sèparèe de celles concernant votre partenaire/ ex-partenaire et vous êtes la seule personne pouvoir y accèder.
Pour plus d’assistance et de soutien dans l’accès aux ressources, veuillez consulter http://www.femaide.cau ou appeler le 1 877 336 2433 ou le1 866 860 7082 pour les sourds
et malentendants
Pour de plus amples informations sur le programme Next Steps/ Intervention auprès des partenaires violents de Family Service Toronto, veuillez consulter Next Steps programme.
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
Church Street Office
355 Church Street
Toronto, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Wednesday Walk-in: 3:30-7:30pm
Evening/weekend groups by appt.
Closed weekends and holidays
Sterling Rd. Office
128a Sterling Rd
Toronto, ON M6R 2B7, Canada
Contact
416-780-1106
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
LAMP Community Health Centre
185 Fifth Street
Etobicoke, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Rexdale Community Health Centre
8 Taber Road
Etobicoke, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Victoria Park Hub
1527 Victoria Park Avenue
Scarborough, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Family Service Toronto
355 Church Street, Toronto, M5B 0B2
Reception desk, Central office
t. 416-595-9230 ext. 0
f. 416-595-0242
Service Access Worker
t. 416-595-9618
e. [email protected]
Intake worker
t. 416-971-6326 ext. 317
Reception Desk
T. 416-780-1106
For more information about how to access FST programs and services please see Service Access Unit and FST Programs and Services.
Anne Dragone
Executive Assistant to the Executive Director
t. 416-595 9230 ext. 258
e. [email protected]
Shawn West
Director
e. [email protected]
Veronika Gremi
Senior Accountant
e. [email protected]
Brian Porter
Director · Communications & Special Projects
t. 416-595-9230 ext. 225
e. [email protected]
Ligia Hendry
Digital Media Specialist
e. [email protected]
Human Resources
e. [email protected]
Coordinator, Student Placements
e. [email protected]
Sojie Tate
HR Operations Manager
e: [email protected]
Thank you for choosing Family Service Toronto for your room rental needs. We appreciate your feedback and hope you will take a few minutes to help us improve.
The Families in Transition program closed effective Oct. 10, 2025.
Following are helpful resources regarding family separation and divorce.
Children Coping with Separation and Divorce
10 Ways to Minimize Conflict with Children
What can Families in Transition do to Help
Counselling and Reading Materials handout
The 519
Abrigo Center
The Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic
Canadian Hearing Services (for people deaf & hard of hearing)
Catholic Family Services of Toronto
The Centre for Spanish Speaking Peoples
The Child Development Institute
Chinese Family Services of Ontario
COSTI Immigrant Services
Jewish Family and Child Service
Native Child & Family Services of Toronto
The Neighborhood Organization
Oasis Centre des Femmes
Riverdale Immigrant Women’s Centre
Scarborough Women’s Centre
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre
Tropicana Community Services
West Neighbourhood House
Women’s College Hospital Trauma Therapy Program
Women’s Habitat
Women’s Health in Women’s Hands
Your local Community Health Centre – look up Toronto Community Health Centre
Hospital of Sick Kids (Centre for Community Mental Health)
The Child Development Institute
Kids Help Phone
Lumenus
Open Counselling
Strides Toronto
What’s Up Walk-In
Yorktown Family Services
Youthlink
The following list outlines websites that contain publications of interest for separating, divorcing, and blending families. Examples of publications from each website are noted in bullets. Please access websites for full publication listings.
The Transitional and Housing Support Program (THSP) is for women-identified individuals who seek support after experiencing abuse by their partners or significant others (including caregiver or other immediate family/household member) or survivors of human trafficking, aged 18 years or older. Interpreter services are available for the program.
THSP provides a continuum of supports and services to women-identified individuals and their dependents to:
THSP will:
Services and supports you can receive in the THSP program include:
Call FST’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or e-mail [email protected].
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Service (SCSS) Unit at Family Service Toronto provides social work services to older people and caregivers. Our work includes counselling, group work, advocacy, training and educational sessions on a variety of topics such as aging and memory loss, anger and guilt, how to access community resources, abuse of older adults, etc.
For up-to-date information on current workshops and groups, please visit the Workshops, Groups and Events page.
You can come to our office for counselling, attend support groups or educational seminars, talk to a trained counsellor by telephone or, in exceptional circumstances, arrange for a home/community visit. We are able to provide counselling in English and Spanish.
We provide counselling services for those facing issues such as:
As an older adult you can count on us to help you get the support you need. We provide counselling services for a variety of issues such as:
As the caregiver of an aging parent, relative or friend, our trained counsellors will help you:
Pat’s Place is a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. At Pat’s Place we offer a welcoming environment where residents can take time out from their current situation.
At Pat’s Place we believe that all older people have the right to live a life free of harm. We are striving to create an environment where an older person can live with dignity and in peace.
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Unit at Family Service Toronto offers training workshops for seniors’ groups, the general public and service providers on a variety of areas.
Workshops cost:
To find out how to present a case to the team, please contact Lisa Manuel, EACT Coordinator, at 416-595-4049 or [email protected]
EACT meets once a month on Fridays, 1-3 p.m. All meetings are held on Zoom.
January 17, February 21, March 21, April 25, May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, October 17, November 21, December 12
We also offer information and education sessions on a range of topics including:
For other questions regarding counselling in general, please check Programs and Services/FAQ
For questions regarding Pat’s Place, please go to Pat’s Place page
Services are free for seniors and their caregivers
For service providers, fees are based on an hourly rate and will be negotiated to meet individual circumstances.
People 60 years of age and older who are being abused emotionally, physically, sexually, financially or in other ways by a family member can use Pat’s Place. Pat’s Place is open to women, men and transgendered persons.
People who move to Pat’s Place must be able to care for themselves. If a person requires some supports we will work with them to determine if we can put them in place. If the person can function independently when support services are not present, they will be considered for entry to the program.
No, it is important to realize that Pat’s Place is not a shelter. It is an apartment in a secure location in Toronto. It is not staffed like a shelter (i.e. staff on site 24/7).
For more information about the types of workshops we are currently running, or to sign up, please call 416-595-9618. If you want to sign up for a workshop or group that has already started and registration is closed, you may be put on the waiting list for the next series.
Please note that FST is offering services virtually and by phone, as offices remain closed to the public. The full list of FST workshops and groups offered at this time, virtually or in-person, is available on the Virtual Workshops and Groups page.
Dates and times for workshops and groups might be different than listed below. Please contact FST’s Service Access Unit for more information.
Join our discussion group for women 60+. Learn to restore your self-confidence and build support in your life.
Date: Second and fourth Monday afternoon each month
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location : Zoom
Facilitator: Zenia Castanos
Pre-registration required, please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
No-Fee. Donations welcome.
A virtual group for parents 55+ of adult children who have been unable to secure their independence due to:
Come out and meet other parents who are dealing with similar issues. Learn how to protect yourself against abuse while supporting your adult child in gaining independence.
Date: Fourth Thursday each month
Time: 1:30 – 3 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitator: Brenda Anderson
Registration: To participate please call 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for women 60+
Sharing our stories, we discover we are not alone.
When: Second Wednesday each month;
Time: 1:30 – 3:00p.m.
Location: Zoom
Pre-Registration required. Please call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
FST Seniors and Caregivers and Senior Community Connections programs offer monthly groups for the Latino Hispanic Community. To learn more about the program go to Seniors Community Connections – Family Service Toronto or to see current groups go to Workshops and Groups – Community Connections Program
CNAP: The Community Navigation and Access Program (CNAP) is a network over 30 community support service (CSS) agencies in the Toronto area who are collaborating to improve access and coordination of support services for older adults, their care providers and health care stakeholders.
CCAC: There are a number of Community Care Access Centres throughout the Toronto area that offer everything from in-home health and social services to information about placement into long-term care facilities. Services are often provided in a variety of languages.
211 Toronto: For information about other community services in the Toronto Area you can call the Community Information Toronto Helpline – (416 or 905 area) dial 211.
Or, for other areas: 416-397-4636
The Canadian Mental Health Association: The Toronto Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association offers a range of community support services for persons with serious mental health problems, as well as education and mental health promotion to the general community.
Mood Disorder Association of Ontario: is a self-help association for persons with depression, manic depression, dual disabilities and their families and friends.
Alzheimer Society of Toronto
2323 Yonge Street, Suite 500
Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2C9
Tel: 416-322-6560
[email protected]
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario
1920 Yonge Street, 4th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, M4S 3E2
Tel: 416-489-7111; Healthline: 1-888-HSF-INFO
[email protected]
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
250 Bloor Street East, Suite 1000
Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3P9
Tel: 416-922-6065; 1-800-268-7582
[email protected]
Parkinson Society of Canada
4211 Yonge Street, Suite 316
Toronto, Ontario, M2P 2A9
Tel: 416-727-9700; 1-800-565-3000
[email protected]
Public pensions: Information on the Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security pension and related benefits, the Canadian retirement income calculator and retirement planning.
Ministry of the Attorney General website: Power of Attorney Kit and Living Wills
Toronto Public Library: Local libraries, throughout the Toronto area, have an extensive number of books and videos on caregiving. For more information, call or visit your local library.
Attend Caregiver Seminars and Workshops: There are a number of caregiver information workshops that take place throughout the city on a regular basis. For more information about the one closest to you call your local Community Information Centre or Neighbourhood Information Post. Numbers are usually listed in the front of your phone book. For workshops in the Toronto area call Community Information Toronto at 416-397-4636. Workshops for seniors and caregivers are also often listed in local community newspapers.
In addition to going to your local library for videos on caregiving, you might also try the National Film Board. They can be reached by calling 416-973-3012 or you can visit their website at www.nfb.ca. You can also check out The Caregiver Network Inc. This organization is an excellent resource for caregivers. They also have a video series called The Aging and Caregiving Video Series. For more information, or to contact them please call 1-800-757-4868.
The Alzheimer Society of Canada has a number of videos on caregiving. For more information or to contact them, please call 1-800-616-8816 (valid only in Canada) or visit their website at www.alzheimer.ca
June 15, 2006 was the debut of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). It is celebrated each year on this day. The day is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action which recognizes the significance of abuse and neglect of older adults as a public health and human rights issue. Throughout the world, senior abuse and neglect is largely under-recognized or treated as an unspoken problem.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, communities and governments around the world to recognize the reality of abuse and neglect of older adults. Canadians have been a big part of this effort.
For more information, read the following fact sheets for more information on elder abuse:
FST hosts two vital anti-poverty campaigns: national and Ontario Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty. Both campaigns are leading forces in Canada’s anti-poverty movement, promoting partnership, research, public awareness and policy change in order to eradicate child and family poverty. The campaign is non-partisan, working with all parties at all levels of government in partnership with 120 national partners and 70 provincial partners. Campaign 2000 and coalition partners across Canada publish annual report cards on child and family poverty and work to ensure the issues and solutions are featured in the media and accessible to communities ready to take action in order to end poverty for good.
Family Service Toronto and Campaign 2000 nation-wide have released a joint statement denouncing all forms of anti-Black racism, colonialism and white supremacy. We have a responsibility to ensure our work contributes to ending anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism, which cannot be done without critical self-reflection, education and dialogue.
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Services Unit at Family Service Toronto (FST) receives part of its funding from Ontario Health. In the interests of full public accountability and transparency, and as one of the conditions of the Multi-Sector Service Accountability Agreement – April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024 (M-SAA), FST is required to publish the fully executed legal agreement. This agreement outlines the nature of FST’s obligations to Ontario Health. FST’s certificate of compliance with this agreement, for the period April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025 is posted here.
Additional copies of the legal agreement are posted in the office locations from which the Seniors and Caregivers Support Services Unit provides service.
If you have any questions about this agreement, please contact Lisa Manuel, Director, Clinical Services Programs at 416-595-9230 ext. 316 or [email protected]
Passeport est un programme qui aide les adultes ayant une déficience intellectuelle à participer à leur communauté et permet aux aidants de prendre une pause dans leurs responsabilités de soins. Financé par le Ministère des Service à l’enfance et des Services sociaux et communautaire, le programme Passeport vise à :
• Favoriser les compétences sociales, émotionnelles et de participation communautaire
• Promouvoir la poursuite des études et le développement personnel
• Promouvoir l’indépendance
• Offrir du répit aux aidants
Pour plus d’informations sur le programme Passeport, les directives du programme Passeport, les documents Passeport et pour vous inscrire à la liste de diffusion Passeport pour les dernières mises à jour, veuillez visiter le site https://passportfunding.ca/fr/
Family Service Toronto dispose d’un groupe de travail consultatif sur l’accessibilité. FST accueille les clients qui souhaitent partager leurs expériences et contribuer à formuler des recommandations visant à améliorer l’accès aux services ici à Family Service Toronto. Apprenez-en plus sur la manière dont vous pouvez nous soutenir.
202-128A, Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Du lundi au vendredi, de 9 h 00 à 17 h 00
Téléphone : 416-780-1106
Courriel : [email protected]
Envoyez vos factures et reçus à : [email protected]
L’èquipe de coordination de Passeport :
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
Notre équipe de coordinateurs Passeport est là pour vous fournir des informations et un soutien continu. Nous vous aidons à développer un plan et un budget pour votre financement Passeport, à vous mettre en lien avec des services dans votre communauté et nous vous ferons un suivi concernant les formulaires du programme.
Votre coordinateur est là pour :
• vous fournir du soutien ou des informations sur l’utilisation de vos fonds Passeport
• vous aider à élaborer un budget pour vos fonds
• vous aider à trouver des idées et des objectifs pour vous-même dans le cadre du programme
• vous aider à comprendre les documents Passeport
• vous aider à remplir les formulaires Passeport
• répondre à vos questions sur ce qui est couvert ou non par le programme
Pour plus d’informations sur le programme passeport, les lignes directrices du programme de passeport, les documents de passeport et pour vous inscrire à la liste de diffusion du passeport pour les dernières mises à jour, veuillez visiter https://passportfunding.ca/fr/
Programme de passeport – Ontario
Bibliothèque des ressources de financement individualisé. La bibliothèque de financement individualisé est un site web qui vous aide à apprendre comment trouver et utiliser votre financement individualisé.
Brochure pour le projet de bibliothèque de financement individualisé
ConnectAbility : Un site web et une communauté virtuelle dédiés à l’apprentissage tout au long de la vie et au soutien des personnes ayant une déficience intellectuelle, de leurs familles et de leurs réseaux de soutien.
Programmes de parcs et loisirs de la ville de Toronto
Services de l’Ontario pour les personnes ayant une déficience intellectuelle (SOPDI)
Programme ontarien de soutien aux personnes handicapées (POSPH)
Ligne d’aide 311 Toronto – Services pour les personnes qui habite à Toronto
Passeport est un programme qui aide les adultes ayant une déficience intellectuelle à participer à leur communauté et permet aux aidants de prendre une pause dans leurs responsabilités de soins. Financé par le Ministère des Service à l’enfance et des Services sociaux et communautaire, le programme Passeport vise à :
• Favoriser les compétences sociales, émotionnelles et de participation communautaire
• Promouvoir la poursuite des études et le développement personnel
• Promouvoir l’indépendance
• Offrir du répit aux aidants
Pour plus d’informations sur le programme Passeport, les directives du programme Passeport, les documents Passeport et pour vous inscrire à la liste de diffusion Passeport pour les dernières mises à jour, veuillez visiter le site https://passportfunding.ca/fr/
Family Service Toronto dispose d’un groupe de travail consultatif sur l’accessibilité. FST accueille les clients qui souhaitent partager leurs expériences et contribuer à formuler des recommandations visant à améliorer l’accès aux services ici à Family Service Toronto. Apprenez-en plus sur la manière dont vous pouvez nous soutenir.
202-128A, Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Du lundi au vendredi, de 9 h 00 à 17 h 00
Téléphone : 416-780-1106
Courriel : [email protected]
Envoyez vos factures et reçus à : [email protected]
L’èquipe de coordination de Passeport :
Utilisateurs de services, plaintes/rétroactions de la part des membres de la communauté
Notre équipe de coordinateurs Passeport est là pour vous fournir des informations et un soutien continu. Nous vous aidons à développer un plan et un budget pour votre financement Passeport, à vous mettre en lien avec des services dans votre communauté et nous vous ferons un suivi concernant les formulaires du programme.
Votre coordinateur est là pour :
• vous fournir du soutien ou des informations sur l’utilisation de vos fonds Passeport
• vous aider à élaborer un budget pour vos fonds
• vous aider à trouver des idées et des objectifs pour vous-même dans le cadre du programme
• vous aider à comprendre les documents Passeport
• vous aider à remplir les formulaires Passeport
• répondre à vos questions sur ce qui est couvert ou non par le programme
Pour plus d’informations sur le programme passeport, les lignes directrices du programme de passeport, les documents de passeport et pour vous inscrire à la liste de diffusion du passeport pour les dernières mises à jour, veuillez visiter https://passportfunding.ca/fr/
Programme de passeport – Ontario
Bibliothèque des ressources de financement individualisé. La bibliothèque de financement individualisé est un site web qui vous aide à apprendre comment trouver et utiliser votre financement individualisé.
Brochure pour le projet de bibliothèque de financement individualisé
ConnectAbility : Un site web et une communauté virtuelle dédiés à l’apprentissage tout au long de la vie et au soutien des personnes ayant une déficience intellectuelle, de leurs familles et de leurs réseaux de soutien.
Programmes de parcs et loisirs de la ville de Toronto
Services de l’Ontario pour les personnes ayant une déficience intellectuelle (SOPDI)
Programme ontarien de soutien aux personnes handicapées (POSPH)
Ligne d’aide 311 Toronto – Services pour les personnes qui habite à Toronto
Family Service Toronto is a lead member of the Citywide Commons – a group of non-profit agencies providing a wide variety of supports at 355 Church Street, Toronto.
We are more than a neighbourhood hub as we represent a citywide suite of organizations collaborating on service provision and committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.
We foster a welcoming and inclusive culture so you can connect, belong and thrive. Explore your options at the Commons.
Citywide Commons services brochure
This brochure includes the list of agencies and services they provide at 355 Church Street and which are also listed below.
Offers counselling, seniors support, families in transition program, LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS services. Engages in community development, public education and advocacy work.
3rd floor | 416 595 9230
[email protected]
Supports newcomers and immigrants through settlement assistance, employment services, skills development, youth programs, Canadian citizenship classes, and women-only English classes.
2nd Floor, Suite 201 | 647 224 1371
[email protected]
Offers supportive housing, case management and other services for and with adults who are coping and living with mental health and substance use issues.
2nd Floor, Suite 213. | 416 977 1333
[email protected]
Offers case management and counselling, support groups, practical supports and children and youth focused programs for children and their families affected by HIV/AIDS.
2nd Floor, Suite 208 | 416 596 7703
[email protected]
Offers grief support to Torontonians who have experienced life-changing loss after the death of a loved one through peer volunteer-led services, professionally designed and supported.
2nd Floor, Suite 202 | 416 440 0290
[email protected]
Supports a community of mental health professionals who offer low-cost counselling. Facilitates mental health conversations, service navigation, events, and resource sharing in their storefront retail shop.
Ground Floor | 647 740 FEEL (3335)
www.hardfeelings.org
Services offered by FST, TTG, MCS, NEW, HF
Services offered by MCS, FST, NEW, TTG
Services offered by NEW, TTG, MCS, FST, HF
Services offered by FST, TTG
Services offered by FST, NEW, TTG
Services offered by BFO, TTG
Services offered by TTG, FST
Services offered by FST, TTG, MCS, NEW, HF
Family Service Toronto (FST) is a designated broader public-sector organization as provided for under section 12 of the Broader Public Sector Accountability Act, 2010 and follows the Ontario broader public sector (BPS) supply chain code of ethics and the requirements for travel and expenses, purchasing/procurement and perquisites. FST has posted its relevant policies for transparency and to be compliant with BPS directives. In addition, the BPS Business Documents Directive requires BPS organizations to enhance their financial and performance reporting to the public.
FST has posted its relevant policies and quarterly service and financial reports for transparency and to be compliant with BPS directives.
Goal: To ensure an ethical, professional and accountable BPS supply chain.
Individuals involved with Supply Chain Activities must act, and be seen to act, with integrity and professionalism. Honesty, care and due diligence must be integral to all Supply Chain Activities within and between FST’s suppliers and other stakeholders. Respect must be demonstrated for each other and for the environment. Confidential information must be safeguarded. Participants must not engage in any activity that may create, or appear to create, a conflict of interest, such as accepting gifts or favours, providing preferential treatment, or publicly endorsing suppliers or products.
Supply Chain Activities must be open and accountable. In particular, contracting and purchasing activities must be fair, transparent and conducted with a view to obtaining the best value for public money. All participants must ensure that public sector resources are used in a responsible, efficient and effective manner.
Individuals involved with purchasing or other Supply Chain Activities must comply with this Code of Ethics and the laws of Canada and Ontario. Individuals should continuously work to improve supply chain policies and procedures to improve their supply chain knowledge and skills levels, and to share leading practices.
Family Service Toronto (FST) recognizes that staff and board members may incur various costs in the fulfillment of their responsibilities. Allowable expenses include travel, meals, accommodation, conferences/training and hospitality. All expenses incurred must be directly related to FST’s work, must be modest and appropriate, and must balance economy, efficiency, as well as health and safety and environmental considerations. The most economical and practical option should be selected whenever possible. This policy seeks to establish fair and consistent rules for expenses and travel. Read the full policy.
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Q1 Expense Disclosure
Q2 Expense Disclosure
Q3 Expense Disclosure
Q4 Expense Disclosure
Family Service Toronto’s programmatic and organizational requirements demand the purchase of a broad range of supplies and services. All approved expenditures and commitments must be consistent with the FST operational plan and within approved budgets. Any significant exceptions must be formally approved by the Executive Director or the Board of Directors.
It is expected that due diligence be done to make purchases and acquire services through an open, fair and transparent process. A contract of more than $100,000 can only be awarded as a result of an open competitive bidding process, and any contract between $10,000 and $100,000 must be through an invitational competitive process. A contract of less than $10,000 can be entered without any restrictions. The value of the procurement cannot be reduced to circumvent the competitive thresholds. The board has the authority to waive these requirements in special circumstances. Read the FST Policy – Purchasing and Procurement
The terms and conditions of employment for all employees of Family Service Toronto (FST) are set out in:
Employees are also subject to applicable legislation and other legal requirements of all relevant regulatory or certifying bodies/associations.
No employee shall have perquisites (e.g., fitness club memberships, tickets to cultural or sports events, clothing allowances) that are not related to business requirements. Read the full policy.
FST Board members shall not receive perquisites during their term of service to the organization. Read the full policy
Family Service Toronto is subject to the Public Sector Salary Disclosure Act. More information is available on the Ontario Ministry of Finance website under Public Sector Salary Disclosure.
Family Service Toronto reports to its volunteer Board of Directors on the service and financial performance of the organization on a quarterly basis. This also includes reporting on organization risk associated with operations.
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q4 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Q1 Service and Financial Report
Q2 Service and Financial Report
Q3 Service and Financial Report
Q4 Service and Financial Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director Report
Q1 Service and Financial Report
Q2 Service, Financial and Risk Report
Q3 Service and Financial Report
Q4 Service and Financial and Risk Report
Q1 Executive Director’s Report
Q2 Executive Director’s Report
Q3 Executive Director’s Report
Q4 Executive Director’s Report
Family Service Toronto follows a comprehensive set of policies and procedures based on the vision, mission and values that guide our people and our work. They ensure we are compliant with all relevant legislation and support our mandate to deliver quality programs and services to our clients and the communities we serve.
These include the following:
Accessible Customer Service Policy
Client Rights and Responsibilities Policy
Confidentiality and Privacy Policy
FST values and respects the privacy and confidentiality of all clients. If you have any questions about the policy or practices of FST, you can contact FST’s Privacy Officer, Lisa Manuel, at [email protected] or by calling 416 595 4049.
Discriminatory Requests for Service
Health and Safety Policy Statement.
Service User and Community Member Complaints
Please note FST is a perfume-free and low-scent environment
Family Service Toronto supports the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and is committed to meeting the requirements of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation. We will work to prevent and remove barriers and to provide fair and effective accommodation for people with disabilities. Equity and inclusiveness are core to our organization’s values and promotion of integration is reflected in all that we do. Read our Accessibility Policy Framework.
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
We support and strive to implement the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) guidelines. We endeavour to ensure that the content on our website satisfies Level A and AA Success Criteria as required by Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Read our Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, 2023 – 2028 and the 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report.
While we make all efforts to comply with current web accessibility standards, our website pages may not always pass online validation tools due to some aspects of the content management technology used to manage our website. We may also post some third-party content presented contextually on our sites via other technologies, including mapping systems, event forms and other applications which are out of our control. We look to develop accessible solutions as technology improves. We also encourage our service providers to comply with industry-wide accessibility standards as part of our business relationship.
Some of our content, or website content developed by other agencies which we link to, is in PDF format only. We are working towards reducing our dependence on PDFs for use on our web site, and training staff to provide content in more accessible formats. If you require FST documents in an alternative format we will make them available upon request.
Please contact Service Access Unit:
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
TTY: 416-751-0635
Fax: 416-595-0242
Family Service Toronto and Campaign 2000 nation-wide have released a joint statement denouncing all forms of anti-Black racism, colonialism and white supremacy. We have a responsibility to ensure our work contributes to ending anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism, which cannot be done without critical self-reflection, education and dialogue.
For over 100 years, Family Service Toronto (FST) has been helping people who are confronted with a variety of life challenges. We assist individuals and families through our counselling, community engagement and public education programs, and advocacy work
Our services are available to everyone who lives or works in Toronto.
We envision a city in which people are resilient and thriving in more just and supportive communities.
We work with individuals, families and communities destabilized by precarious mental health and/or socioeconomic circumstances, to achieve greater resilience, stability and equity.
We achieve this through our understanding of poverty and the harmful effects of marginalization, discrimination and oppression. We direct our energies to support individuals and families in our core service areas – community counselling and mental health, gender-based violence and developmental disabilities. At the same time, we work to influence policy, build knowledge, strengthen communities and advocate for system change.
We are committed to:
Our definition of family:
Our name begins with “family” and we understand it to mean: Two or more people, whether living together or apart, related by blood, marriage, adoption or commitment to care for one another.
We know we are successful when:
FST is committed to a policy of equity and inclusion. We strive to ensure that there is no discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, language, race, age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, income, political or religious affiliation in all aspects of our operation and at all levels of the agency.
Read Equity and Inclusion Policy.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Charissa Tucker, our Senior Director of People and Culture, who died in April after a courageous battle with cancer.
Charissa was a remarkable leader whose impact on our organization cannot be overstated. She was instrumental in shaping our labour relations framework, developing and nurturing a vibrant and inclusive workplace culture, and offering unwavering support to our teams.
Her transparency, fearless leadership, and boundless compassion set a standard we will strive to uphold every day.
To honour her legacy, we are proud to introduce an annual recognition award in her name. The Charissa Tucker Award will celebrate employees who embody her collaborative spirit, creativity, and deep commitment to inclusion—qualities that defined her leadership and inspired all who worked with her. Charissa’s presence is deeply missed, but her influence will continue to guide us.
Executive Director
Chief Operating Officer
Chief Administrative Officer
Senior Director, Strategy and Innovation
Senior Director, People and Culture
Clinical
PassportONE
Finance
Communications and Special Projects
Technology and Business Intelligence
FST’s Board of Directors is a diverse group of professionals who serve voluntarily and live or work in the GTA. New Board members are elected annually at FST’s Annual General Meeting.
The Board of Directors is accountable to internal and external stakeholders and its primary responsibilities include:
All Board activities are governed by FST’s by-laws and governance policies. FST is accredited by the Council on Accreditation and is compliant with standards of best practice in governance.
FST Historical Records – City of Toronto Archives
In 2024, Family Service Toronto marked 110 years as one of the city’s oldest and most vital social service organizations.
FST started as the Neighbourhood Workers Association (NWA) in 1914 when a group of volunteers came together to address the growing levels of poverty faced by many families in the city. See our Celebrating a Century in the City video, produced in 2014 to mark our centennial.
In 1962, NWA changed its name to “Family Service Association of Metropolitan Toronto”. In 2008, the name changed again to Family Service Toronto.
Originally, NWA served as an umbrella organization, bringing together churches and other charitable organizations to co-ordinate the provision of relief to families in need.
The association was instrumental in organizing relief during the influenza epidemic in 1918 and the Great Depression during the 1930s. NWA’s constitution charged the agency with the responsibility to acquire “information regarding the social needs of the community” and promote “the means to meet those needs.”
Today, FST provides more counselling, community building and other services than relief, but we are still here for Toronto’s most vulnerable citizens. While our organizational structure and nature of our work has evolved over time, our core values remain the same.
Our recent activities and accomplishments are featured in our Annual Report 2024 – 2025
As required, the accounts and financial transactions are audited by an independent auditor appointed by FST’s Board of Directors. Read the audited Financial Statements
24-25 Annual Update Strategic Plan 2021-2026
Strategic Plan 2021-2026: Open Hearts, Healthy Minds, Strong Communities
Strategy and Impact 2020 (2017-2020)
The full list of our downloadable brochures (PDF format) is available on the FST Program Brochures page.
FST Demographic Dashboard 2024-25
Family Service Toronto 2023 – 2024 Infographic
Family Service Toronto 2022-2023 Socio-Demographic Report and Infographic released February 20, 2024
Client Experience Survey 2023: Feedback from Passport Program Clients
FST Socio-Demographics Report 2018-19
Demographic Report Summary, February 2018
A Century of Community Service – a booklet highlighting our 100 years of work and accomplishments from 1914-2014
See our Celebrating a Century in the City centennial video.
The City of Toronto Archives hosts historical records of Family Service Toronto, formerly known as Family Service Association of Toronto (FSA) and previously Family Service Association of Metropolitan Toronto.
The archived materials provide a detailed picture of the organization’s previous administration and programs and include records such as board and committee minutes, annual reports, planning reports, newspaper clippings and photographs.
The collection also includes some material from FSA’s predecessor, the Neighbourhood Workers’ Association, notably annual reports, and records from its two residential camp programs, Bolton Camp and Illahee Lodge/Illahee Northwoods Camp.
Family Service Toronto sources of revenue are diverse ranging from grants from United Way and Government funding to donations from individuals and earned income.
Audited Financial Statements for April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025 are available to download.
Financial Statements 2024/2025
Financial Statements 2022/2023
Financial Statements 2021/2022
Financial Statements 2020/2021
Financial Statements 2018/2019
Financial Statements 2017/2018
Financial Statements 2016/2017
Family Service Toronto is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA).
Accreditation is an independent process that service organizations and agencies use to evaluate and improve the quality of care and services. It is an opportunity to be evaluated against national standards of excellence and to identify opportunities for improvement.
Accreditation provides FST with an opportunity to showcase its extraordinary achievements as one of the city’s largest service agencies working to assist individuals experiencing various life challenges.
For over 100 years, Family Service Toronto (FST) has been helping people who are confronted with a variety of life challenges. We assist individuals and families through our counselling, community engagement and public education programs, and advocacy work
Our services are available to everyone who lives or works in Toronto.
We envision a city in which people are resilient and thriving in more just and supportive communities.
We work with individuals, families and communities destabilized by precarious mental health and/or socioeconomic circumstances, to achieve greater resilience, stability and equity.
We achieve this through our understanding of poverty and the harmful effects of marginalization, discrimination and oppression. We direct our energies to support individuals and families in our core service areas – community counselling and mental health, gender-based violence and developmental disabilities. At the same time, we work to influence policy, build knowledge, strengthen communities and advocate for system change.
We are committed to:
Our definition of family:
Our name begins with “family” and we understand it to mean: Two or more people, whether living together or apart, related by blood, marriage, adoption or commitment to care for one another.
We know we are successful when:
FST is committed to a policy of equity and inclusion. We strive to ensure that there is no discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, language, race, age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, income, political or religious affiliation in all aspects of our operation and at all levels of the agency.
Read Equity and Inclusion Policy.
Community members are invited to access our free Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
Virtual sessions are available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In-person sessions are available on Thursdays at our 355 Church Street location. For more Information, go to Single Session Walk-in Counselling program page or download the flyer
To book a virtual single session today, please call our Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618
Distress Centre: 416-408-HELP (4357)
Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 416-863-0511 or 1-866-863-0511
Gerstein Centre – Crisis line: 416-929-5200
Community Information and Toronto Community Crisis 211 or go to 211Toronto.ca
Counselling | Options | Options – Children | Violence against Women | David Kelley Services | Seniors and Caregivers Support Services | Seniors Community Connections | Healthy Families, Healthy Communities
A six-week group for individuals interested in learning strategies to reduce anxiety and distress. Every week a new technique will be introduced and practised to help you with reducing your anxiety and having more self-regulation. Participants will discover they are not alone in their distress and that others struggle with similar issues, share information and learn from each other, and experience a safe place within which to practice new skills.
Members will not be allowed in the group if they skip the first two session since the material and practice of it is build up on each session.
Date: Dates to be announced for 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: virtual on Zoom
Fee: Sliding scale based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Registration: Prescreening required at registration time.
Please call Family Service Toronto, Service Access Unit 416.595.9618
This 8-week webinar is for people who have experienced trauma. This online webinar is an invitation to practice gentle trauma-informed yoga and to learn how yoga/mindfulness are useful for trauma recovery. Participants will gain skills to assist them in understanding and managing trauma responses. Each session will include both an educational component as well as a yoga practice. The yoga offered in this webinar is suitable for both beginners and those who already have a yoga practice.
Date(s): October 31 – December 19, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Registration: The webinar is free. To register or for more information contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit. 416.595.9618
[email protected]
This weekly webinar is an invitation to engage in a guided mindfulness practice. Each week, a counsellor will lead participants through a meditation and provide information about a weekly topic, such as mindfulness, coping strategies, or understanding emotion.
Date(s): Every Monday
Time: 1 – 1:30 p.m.
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register or for more information contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
In this virtual, weekly sessions series you’ll engage in body-based grounding techniques, practice trauma-informed yoga, and learn how these practices help improve emotional and physical well-being.
This program is open to anyone who wants to manage strong emotions like anxiety, depression, or trauma responses.
Date(s): To be announced
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
Join us for an informative workshop on respite care options for children and youth with special needs. Learn about different types of respite, available funding, and how to find and hire support workers. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, this session will provide practical tools, resources, and guidance to help you take care of yourself while ensuring your loved one receives quality care.When & Where
Date: October 7 & November 20, 2025
Time: 11a.m.
Location: Virtual, on Zoom
Registration
The group is free. Register online for your chosen date:
October 7: bit.ly/RespiteCare_Oct7
November 20: bit.ly/RespiteCare_Nov20
Have you ever wondered how to make connections in your community?
Do you ever wonder how to use social networks and relationships to build and maintain a Support Circle for people with disabilities and their families?
Join Extend-A-Family and Family Service Toronto for a free 3-part series on Support Circles to learn about circles and their benefits, hear other people’s stories, map networks and engage in interactive sessions.
Dates:
October 15, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 1: Sharing Knowledge: What is a circle; Why we do them.
October 29, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 2: Types of Support Circles . We will invite 2-3 young people/ families to share their stories, share their vision, process
November 12, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 3: Interactive session. Engaging and mapping networks exercise
Location: Zoom
Registration: The group is free.
Register online at: https://bit.ly/SupportCircles_Fall2025
Or contact Kristen Carhart: 647-292-5175 or [email protected]
A virtual information session on Autism, and how AccessOAP can support children and youth on the autism spectrum and their families. This workshop, presented in collaboration with AccessOAP is suitable for families who have a diagnosed loved one under 18, and community members who are interested in learning more about Autism and services available.
When: Thursday, Oct 9, Nov 6 & Dec 4, 2025
Time: 11 a.m.
Where: online
Registration: please use registration links for the preferred date.
October 9: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Oct9
November 6: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Nov6
December 4 at: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Dec4
Have you ever wanted to know more about developmental disabilities such as Autism?
Are you interested in how to navigate the service system or strategies to support a loved one or friend? Come join us for an information session on Developmental Disabilities, Autism, and strategies for navigating the service sector across the lifespan and supporting a loved one. This workshop is suitable for families with a newly diagnosed loved one, and community members who are interested in learning more about developmental disabilities and the sector.
Location: Zoom
Dates, time and registration to be announced
If interested, reach out to [email protected] to be added to waitlist?
Ever wonder what you need to register your child for camp? Not sure what camps are out there? Come join us for an information session on camps and respite registration. This single-session workshop is suitable for caregivers of children 4 -18 who would like to have a better understanding of the what’s, when, and how’s of registering for camp
Date & time:
Please register for one of the available sessions:
October 21 | 11am https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KLFflXcNQyube9oWkHg6jQ
November 18 | 11am https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Oytyg4opTKqRlFHT-HBpew
Where: Virtual on Zoom
Fee: Free
Come learn about provincial and charitable funding that you and your child may be eligible for. Receive a resource package with links and steps for completing the applications. This workshop is suitable for caregivers of children birth to 18 who would like to have a better understanding of funding for children with special needs.
Dates & registration
Please register for one of the two sessions.
November 13 | https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__T1LMQB3RemW9Ay8SUDxcA
Time: 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Where: Virtual on Zoom
Fee: Free
This 60 minute, 1:1 consultation is designed to provide caregivers who have children and/or youth with a disability between the ages of 0-18 years of age, with an opportunity to gain information about FST’s children’s programs and Toronto region to assist with supportive needs of their loved one
When: Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5
Location: Virtual, on Teams
Registration
One hour times slots between 9-5
Registrants will be contacted to book a time slot to meet.
https://forms.office.com/r/M2r3gMpeDQ
A 4-part virtual webinar series for women-identified survivors of trauma and/or gender-based violence offered by METRAC and the Violence Against Women Program at Family Service Toronto. This webinar series is suitable for those who are interested in understanding and gaining family law knowledge.
Dates and topics:
Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
October 2: Navigating the Justice System
October 9: Finding and Working with a Lawyer
October 16: Legal Aid Ontario: What you need to know
October 23: Divorce and Separation: What you need to know
Location: Zoom Webinar
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
Learn about money, your career and planning for the future
A 4-week workshop series for women-identified survivors of gender-based violence and/or trauma offered by the Canadian Foundation for Economic Education (CFEE) and the Violence Against Women Program at Family Service Toronto. This webinar is suitable for those who are interested in learning more about changes in the workplace, careers, and money matters.
Dates and topics:
Thursdays: 12 – 1:30 p.m.
October 30: Preparing for the Future of Work and your Career
November 6: Living a Financially Healthy Life
November 13: Making Retirement a Reality
November 20: Moving Through your Career: Conversations with Women in the Workplace*
*Be inspired by guest speakers who will share their journeys and offer guidance on the workplace today, careers, and finances
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
A free, 16-session, psychotherapy group for self-identified male (18 +) survivors of sexual abuse who seek support to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago.
Who can participate?
Self-identified males, inclusive of 2SGBTQ+ individuals, who are sexual abuse survivors, and
Date: Dates to be announced
Time: 2.00 – 4:30 p.m.
Fee: free
Registration information: Pre-screening, 30 min, required.
Contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618, [email protected]
2STNB+ Connect Peer Support Group is now offered by DKS services and it replaces 2STNB Peer Support Group, previously offered by Queer and Connected.
This virtual peer support group assists youth across the gender identity spectrum to meet and connect with others in their community, explore their identities, and make friends.
Dates: Ongoing; Bi-weekly, Wednesdays: Sep 4 & 18; Oct. 2, 16 & 30; Nov. 12 & 26…
Time: 7:00 – 9:00p.m.
Location: virtually on Zoom (a link will be provided to all participants in advance of workshops)
Cost: Free
Registration/information: The group is open to 2STNB+ youth 16-29 in Toronto and the GTA
Register with Keith at [email protected]
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Download flyer
This is an online skills group offering 2SLGBTQ+ clients a space to learn and practice the emotional skills needed for managing stress, regulating emotions and having healthier relationships. Each session centers a core emotional skill, with sessions building and integrating upon one another. Groups are limited to maximum 10 participants.
Date(s): to be announced
Time: 1-2:30pm
Fee: Sliding scale based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Registration information: Pre-screening required. Contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Eligibility: Participants have to be eligible for services through DKS; interested in learning tools to cope with emotional dysregulation; and able to commit to attending 5/8 sessions.
Art in Trans*ition is an arts-based peer support group at David Kelley Services (DKS). This 5-session virtual group will use art making to reflect on our own gender transitions – social, emotional, medical and physical. We will explore a variety of themes through writing, drawing, poetry, zines, comics and more. For and by 2STNB+ people, this group is inclusive of everyone on a journey of gender transition, whatever transition means to them. Participants of all art-making experience and abilities are welcome (even if that is none!).
Required art supplies: Journal; pen and pencil; phone camera.
More options: Scissors, tape and glue; collage scarps; paint and brushes; markers; crayons; your art medium of choice.
When: Wednesdays, October 1, 15, 29; November 12 & 26, 2025
Time: 7 – 9 p.m.
Location: virtually on Zoom (a link will be provided to all participants in advance of workshops)
Cost: Free
Registration/information: Open to youth aged 16-29 in Toronto and the GTA
Register with Keith at [email protected]
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Terapia grupal en español que ofrece apoyo para abordar el impacto los efectos acumulativos en la salud mental de la inmigración, la orientación sexual, el género, la raza y los desafíos de salud.
Este grupo semanal gratuito apoya a personas de habla hispana que viven con VIH y se identifican como gays, bisexuales u otros hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (GBMSM), enfocándose en lograr la regulación emocional, la autogestión y la resiliencia.
Fechas y hora (en 2025)
De 10 a. m. a 12 p. m.
Ubicación: 355 Church Street, Toronto
INFORMACIÓN DE REGISTRO: Se requiere una preevaluación de 30 minutos. Comuníquese con la Unidad de Acceso al Family Services Toronto al 416.595.9618 | [email protected]
Bienestar is a Spanish-speaking group therapy providing support to navigate the cumulative mental health effects of immigration, sexual orientation, gender, race, and health challenges. This free, weekly group supports Spanish Speaking individuals living with HIV who self-identify as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), and focuses on achieving emotional regulation, self-management, and resilience.
Dates: Fall dates to be announced
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: at 355 Church Street.
Registration: Pre-screening, 30 minutes required. Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
A virtual group for Hispanic/Latino immigrants, 55+, interested in exploring their experiences in Canada through the lens of the Iberoamerican literature and film.
The group offers interactive sessions, which by blending storytelling, open dialogue, and creative expression nurture growth, healing, and connection within a culturally resonant environment.
Rooted in narrative therapy, the group offers a space for healing through shared cultural stories. Participants will share stories, gain deeper insight into their journeys, build community, and feel more confident navigating life in Canada.
Date: October 2 – November 6, 2025
Time: Thursdays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Virtual group offered via Zoom
Registration: This group is free. For information and registration, contact the group facilitators: Evelyn Kachanovzky[email protected]Rodrigo Briones[email protected]
This 8-week, inter-generational art therapy group is a supportive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to come together across ages and lived experiences. Through creative expression, and shared storytelling, participants will explore themes of identity, resilience, and belonging.
The group is designed to foster meaningful connections, strengthen community ties, and promote healing through the arts. By bringing together different generations within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, we aim to honour diverse histories, encourage mutual learning, and build lasting relationships.
No previous art experience is required—just an openness to connect, create, and grow in community. Let’s create something beautiful, together.
Eligibility: 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals (16 +)
Participants have to be eligible for services with SCSS or DKS and identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Dates: to be announced
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: 355 Church St, 3rd Floor
Registration:
The group is limited to 12 participants (16+). Pre-screening is required.
Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
El Camino a Casa es un programa semanal para personas mayores de habla hispana que desean hablar sobre la experiencia de emigrar a Canadá. En un espacio seguro y confidencial, los participantes tienen la oportunidad de compartir sus experiencias como inmigrantes y el impacto que la inmigración ha tenido en sus vidas. El programa fomenta la comprensión y el crecimiento personal.
El Camino A Casa /The Road Home is weekly program for Spanish-speaking seniors who want to speak about the experience of immigrating to Canada. In a safe and confidential space, participants have the opportunity to share experiences as immigrants and the impact immigration had on their lives. The program promotes understanding and personal growth.
Dates: Weekly, every Thursday
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: virtual on Zoom
Registration: Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Join our discussion group for women 60+. Learn to restore your self-confidence and build support in your life.
Date: Second and fourth Monday afternoon each month
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for parents 55+ of adult children who have been unable to secure their independence due to:
Come out and meet other parents who are dealing with similar issues. Learn how to protect yourself against abuse while supporting your adult child in gaining independence.
Date: Fourth Thursday each month
Time: 1:30 – 3 p.m.Learn about finances and increase your financial literacy
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for women 60+
Sharing our stories, we discover we are not alone.
When: Second Wednesday each month;
Time: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: Please call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-961
This 10-session group is offered by FST’s Seniors and Caregivers Support Service (SCSS) counsellors. Are you caring for or concerned about a senior (55+)? Maybe a parent, spouse, partner, relative or friend? This closed group explores various topics related to aging and caregiving over a 11-week cycle. Each session will have an educational component as well as opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, offer support, and share experiences. Participants have the opportunity to bring their own topics for discussion or request counsellors provide focused guidance for specific issues. The group is limited to 10 participants.
When: To be announced
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Eligible for services with SCSS, in a caregiving role for someone age 55+
Registration information: Pre-screening, 30 min, required.
To pre-register contact the Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
A discussion group for anyone aged 55 and over offered by Seniors and Caregivers Support Service counsellors.
Bring some coffee or tea and join FST counsellors for a weekly drop-in chat. We will discuss a variety of topics with the goal of building connection and support with one another.
Date(s): First and third Wednesday of each month
2025: Fall dates to be announced
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
How: Offered via Zoom or phone
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register contact the Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Every Wednesday, older adults in the Latino Hispanic community meet in person or via Zoom to socialize. And once a month to watch a movie and share a pizza at Sterling Road. Coordinators: Evelyn & Rodrigo
Where & When:128 Sterling Rd, 2nd floor Office 202 | 11 AM to 1:30 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
On the second Monday of each month, Latino-Hispanic seniors meet to play board games, games to sharpen the mind, or engage in light and entertaining exercises. Coordinators: Evelyn & Rodrigo
Participants meet to laugh, have fun and a good time.
Where & When: 355 Church St. | 11 AM to 1:30 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
Every Friday, come with your iPad, iPhone, computer or other device you use to practice and find answers to questions that arise while using new technologies. Coordinator Rodrigo
Where & When: Birkdale Community Centre, 1299 Ellesmere Rd., Scarborough | 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
A brief review of what is relevant at the local level with an indication of available services that help overcome the challenges in “Times of Coronavirus”. The program is offered by Seniors Community Connections (SCC)
Audience: Latino Hispano Community
Facilitator: Rodrigo Briones, SCC Coordinator, Lation Hispano Community Facilitator
Date(s): Once a week
Time: Link to podcast always available
Cost: Free
Registration: Contact number for more information: Rodrigo 416.755.5565 ext. 438
Arriving Together is a peer support group created in partnership with Family Service Toronto and Rainbow Railroad for 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers (18+) to Canada. This group offers a warm and supportive environment for participants to share experiences, build connections, and grow community.
What to Expect:
Date & Time: The group is offered every week beginning September 22 until November 25, 2025. Exact dates and times vary based on weekly activities.
Location: In-person at 355 Church street and other locations
Registration: To register please contact: Family Service Toronto – Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or email: [email protected]
A Virtual Group Meeting to enhance women resiliency. Issues on self care and compassion, coping strategies, self-growth and lots more are discussed collectively. Program offered by the Violence against Women Program Facilitator (Nigerian Community)
Date(s): Every Tuesday
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
How: Conference phone call
Cost: Free
Registration information: Contact Blessing by email [email protected]
Contact number for more information: 647 510 4371
Chitchat is a free group for Arabic-speaking women offered by Family Service Toronto – Healthy Families, Healthy Communities program in partnership with Arab Community Centre. The group offers an opportunity for women to meet, share and learn from each other, improve the quality of their family life, build skills for safe and healthy relationships, and gain awareness of resources.
Date(s): Biweekly, Thursdays
Time: 10:30 a.m – 1 p.m.
How: Victoria Park Hub, 1527 Victoria Park Ave., 2nd floor,
Cost: Free
Registration: Call Nariman Shabo, Counsellor, English and Arabic Speaking at 416-755-5565 Ext 402 or Email: [email protected]
The Caring for the Caregiver project has ended. From July 2018- March 2020, Family Service Toronto received funding from the Ministry of Health to expand our programs to better meet the needs of those who are caring for a senior (family, friend, neighbour, client, spouse).
We connected with people who were currently supporting a senior (55+): family, friend, neighbour, client, spouse.
We worked within 7 specific communities:
Contact: Sera Kazmi, Manager, Violence against Women and Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Program
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 416.595.9230 x 136
Funding for this project was generously provided by the Province of Ontario. The views expressed in this publication are the views of Family Service Toronto and do not necessarily reflect those of the Province.
Single-session counselling can provide you with the emotional support, feedback and ideas on how to make positive changes in your life. You may also receive referral information to other community supports and resources, websites, apps, books, articles or groups. Each counselling session is treated like a separate counselling experience. The counselling session is 50 minutes and is open to all persons 18 years of age and older. Download the flyer
In-person: Family Service Toronto offers in-person single sessions at the Church Street location (3rd Floor, 355 Church St., Toronto, ON M5B 1Z8) from 2:30 pm to 7:00pm weekly on Thursdays. Registration begins at 2:00pm and ends at 5:30pm.
Note: Single Session Walk-in Counselling (WIC) will be virtual on Thursday October 2. Please call SAU at 416-595-9618 to book an appointment. We will return to in-person WIC on Thursday October 9.
Virtual: Our counsellors offer a single telephone or video-counselling session. Community members are invited to access our virtual counselling program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. To register call our Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 starting with 9 am. Registration ends at 5 pm. Depending on availability, an appointment time will be booked for you with a counsellor on that day between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00pm.
All Single Session Walk-in Counselling sessions, whether virtual or in-person, are provided free of charge.
Note: Any callers who may need crisis support will be directed to the appropriate service. The service will be closed on weekends and statutory holidays.
All appointments, registrations to FST groups and workshops as well as referrals to other services are handled through our Service Access Unit (SAU).
SAU works mostly by telephone.
Hours of operation:
Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 6 pm
Friday: 9 am – 5 pm
Phone: 416-595-9618
Fax: 416-595-0242
[email protected]
Our priority is what is best for you, our client.
When you call SAU to request an appointment or to register for a group/workshop you will be asked a series of questions which are designed to help us connect you to the service that best meets your needs.
You will be asked to provide your personal information and you may be put on a wait list for service. When a time slot becomes available you will be called to confirm an appointment date and you will be provided with the name of your Counsellor.
If Family Service Toronto is not the right fit for you, we are able to offer alternatives and referrals to other services within Toronto area.
For your first counselling session you are required to arrive 15 minutes before your session to complete the paperwork required for Counselling at FST. To speed up the process, you can print out the Client Information Form, complete it and bring it with you.
You will do the following:
The Options Children Program works with children (birth to 18) with a diagnosed developmental disability in collaboration with their families, caregivers, and support networks.
The program is dedicated to creating an inclusive community where every child can feel empowered to grow and share their skills. Through work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, the Options Children team members looks to support children and families in the city of Toronto.
The Options Children Program provides case management and service navigation supports. We work within an anti-oppressive framework, by using an individualized and person-directed approach to promote equity and inclusion as it focuses on the child’s and family’s strengths. Our team of Children Community Resource Facilitators provide information, referrals, and the coordination of services for children with developmental disabilities and their support network. Options Children utilizes a goal-oriented, time-limited service plan that is created and regularly reviewed with clients to provide optimal care. The team aims to provide information on services and supports to help clients and their support network to make informed choices on both traditional and non-traditional supports in their community.
Download Options Children Program flyer
We are located at Family Service Toronto, 128A Sterling Rd. Office.
For information and/or referrals please call 416.971.6326 x 317 or email [email protected]
A free helpline that connects you to community and social services in your area 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in over 150 languages.
Phone: #211
Website: www.211ontario.ca
Free online resources for family and community caregivers. CareChannel features over 80 ‘how-to videos’, as well as careguides.
The user-friendly, online platform explores topics from self-care, to how to assist someone with crutches, to dementia care. CareChannel is available in five languages: English, French, Punjabi, Spanish, and Mandarin.
Free online resources for Ontario caregivers and a 24/7 help line in English and French. To access the help call 1-833-416-2273 [CARE].
Access to government funded home and community care services, including: care coordination, personal support workers, nurses, physiotherapy, social work, medical supplies and equipment, etc. across Ontario.
Phone: 310-2222 (no area code)
Website: lhins.on.ca
Information and referrals for senior support services, as well as supportive counseling over the phone for seniors and caregivers in Toronto.
Phone: 416-217-2077
Transit option for persons with disabilities to travel in Toronto if their disability prevents them from using TTC conventional transit.
Phone: 416-393-4111
Website: WheelTrans/How_to_appy/index.jsp
Counseling, support groups, and education for seniors and caregivers in Toronto.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Website: familyservicetoronto.org/our-services/programs-and-services/seniors-and-caregivers/
A website resource with information on services and tips for caregivers created through a partnership with thehealthline.ca Information Network (a non-profit organization) and the Local Health Integration Networks – Home and Community Care – of Ontario.
Website: caregiverexchange.ca/
A free crisis and emotional distress phone, online chat and text service that provides 24-hour support, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to individuals in the community.
Phone: 416-408-4357
Website: torontodistresscentre.com
Growing Up Healthy Downtown (GUHD) is a partnership of eight multi-service community agencies. We deliver programs and services that focus on improving the health and well-being of young children, as well as offering support and new skills to their parents and or caregivers.
Guiding Principles:
If you’re looking for a place to drop in with your kids for a couple of hours, make some new friends/connections or learn more and get involved in your community, GUHD has something for you. Call Sophia Ali, GUHD Co-ordinator, at 416-595-9230 ext. 330 for more information.
GUHD receives funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada‘s Community Action Program for Children.
Thank you for choosing Family Service Toronto for your room rental needs. We appreciate your feedback and hope you will take a few minutes to help us improve.
Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Family Service Toronto Counselling Services offers individual, family and couple counselling.
Counselling may be able to help you. Counselling helps people (from all walks of life) explore options, find solutions, develop coping strategies, identify strengths, locate information, provide resources and promote healing, resiliency and self-empowerment.
Our counsellors are trauma-informed and culturally sensitive and utilize a variety of approaches and tools to support people in their mental health journey.
The length of service and frequency of sessions may vary; however, we offer time limited counselling sessions. You will work with your counsellor to develop goals and a timeline for accomplishing those goals.
To book an appointment call our service access line at: 416-595-9618
Fees are charged on a sliding scale based on household income and your family size. Fees are designed to be accessible for all income ranges for anyone living or working in the city of Toronto. Family Service Toronto is a non-profit social service agency and fees are required to supplement the funding that we receive for this service.
Staff can provide service in English, French, Farsi, Hindi, Portuguese, Spanish and Urdu. Occasionally we may provide service in other languages. When you call for an appointment, please let us know about your language requirements at intake.
Family Service Toronto (FST) works to reduce violence and abuse in intimate relationships.Our counsellors from a variety of specific FST programs work together, as part of our integrated Family Violence Centre, to address all forms of abuse.
If you are involved in an abusive relationship, we have several programs and services addressing different type of abuse: Violence against Women, Next Steps, David Kelley Lesbian and Gay Community Counselling, Seniors and Caregivers Support Services.
Pat’s Place is a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. At Pat’s Place we offer a welcoming environment where residents can take time out from their current situation.
At Pat’s Place we believe that all older people have the right to live a life free of harm. We are striving to create an environment where an older person can live with dignity and in peace.
Pat’s Place offers a cozy, modern bachelor apartment with the following features:
No, it is important to realize that Pat’s Place is not a shelter. It is an apartment in a secure location in Toronto. It is not staffed like a shelter (i.e. staff on site 24/7).
People 60 years of age and older who are being abused emotionally, physically, sexually, financially or in other ways by a family member can use Pat’s Place. Pat’s Place is open to women, men and transgender persons.
People who move to Pat’s Place must be able to care for themselves. If a person requires some supports we will work with them to determine if we can put them in place. If the person can function independently when support services are not present, they will be considered for entry to the program.
Due to the nature of this program, the location of Pat’s Place is confidential. The unit is located in an apartment building in Toronto, steps away from TTC, shops and grocery stores.
How long can a person stay at Pat’s Place?
Pat’s Place is a temporary, short-term safe haven. People who move to Pat’s Place can stay for up to 60 days.
Pat’s Place is not a long-term form of accommodation. It is critical to be thinking about future plans from the time a person moves in. Staff will work with the resident to set goals that are realistic and achievable within the 60 day stay.
Residents will be asked to sign a document that acknowledges they can stay for up to 60 days.
Any person experiencing abuse who is 60 years of age or older can call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618 to inquire about Pat’s Place.
We encourage service providers who are working with someone who is experiencing abuse to call, with the person’s consent, to determine if this program would be a proper match.
What will happen after a first contact is made with Family Service Toronto?
During a first contact with Family Service Toronto the caller will be asked to provide basic information about who the potential resident is (i.e. name, age, address, contact information and issues the person is facing).
If a service provider calls to refer someone to Pat’s Place it is important to secure verbal consent from the older person prior to making a call to Family Service Toronto.
A counsellor from the Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Unit will contact the caller to gather more information. They will make an appointment to meet with the potential resident either in their current home, in the community, in one of our offices or any other safe place.
During this appointment we will share more information about Pat’s Place and work with the potential resident to determine if it is the right fit.
A counsellor from the Seniors and Caregivers Support Service at Family Service Toronto will be assigned to work with the resident. If the person is connected to one or more organizations in the community we will work with them to determine how we can best support the resident. A range of services are available such as:
There is no charge for rent at Pat’s Place. People are asked to contribute to the day-to-day costs (i.e. buying food, clothing, medications, doing laundry and so on). Family Service Toronto is currently fundraising to be able to cover these costs and to install an emergency response system.
To make a referral, either for yourself or someone else, call our Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618.
Sorry. This form is no longer available.
David Kelley Services (DKS) Program is named after the late David Kelley, one of the founders of the Toronto Counselling Centre for Lesbians and Gays (TCCLG). The program was established in 1996 after TCCLG merged with Family Service Toronto.
We are committed to trauma-informed, anti-oppression practices to help empower LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and families, as well as people living with, affected by or concerned about HIV/AIDS, and to enhance participation in their communities and in the broader society.
Family Service Toronto also has Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
If you are in crisis, contact:
For more information about DKS, contact Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or [email protected]
The Family Service Toronto (FST) Accessibility Working Group (AWG) was created in June 2021 to improve access to FST services and supports for service users.
The working group is introducing an Accessibility Advisory Group to make recommendations on accessibility to improve access to services. The Advisory Group members will be supported by FST staff and will consist of volunteers who are FST clients living with or caring for an individual living with a disability (this includes but is not limited to physical disabilities, developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, ASD, Acquired Brain Injury, or mental health conditions).
At Family Service Toronto, we would like to invite you to
Topics of discussion may include: service forms, website, physical barriers, etc.
We are looking for FST clients who have used services at Family Service Toronto and are:
The group will meet online, on Zoom, once a month for 12 months.
To apply to become a member of the group, please connect with
Sojie Tate
HR Operations Manager
e: [email protected]
416-595-9230 ext 300
Thank you for choosing Family Service Toronto for your room rental needs. We appreciate your feedback and hope you will take a few minutes to help us improve.
Si vous désirez obtenir des services en français, prière d’appeler la ligne FEM’AIDE au 1-877-336-2433.
The aim of Family Service Toronto’s Violence against Women (VAW) program is to promote non-violence and to work towards the eventual elimination of violence against women. The VAW Program assists women-identified people who have experienced abuse during the course of their lives. Abuse may have occurred in childhood, during a past relationship, or it may be an ongoing concern in a current relationship.
For up-to-date information on current workshops and groups, please visit the Workshops, Groups and Events page, Violence against Women section, or contact our Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618.
Our counselling services are available in English, Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish, and Tamil to women-identified people who live and/or work in Toronto. We provide counselling people who have been labelled with developmental or intellectual disabilities and have experienced abuse.
Counselling services provided on an individual basis are goal-directed and time limited. You and your counsellor will work together to define a plan of service and will regularly check in on progress.
The VAW Program works from a feminist, intersectional, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed framework. Read the VAW Intersectional Feminist Statement for more information.
For more information about the VAW program please contact:
At the Options program, we work in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and communities.
Options is dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive communities where everyone can contribute their skills and talents. We work in the city of Toronto, supporting children and adults, their families and surrounding communities. We work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, in order to create community connections.
Our focus is on equity and inclusion and is guided by a person-directed approach, allowing us to support and empower individuals and families.
Services are available to adults (18 and over) diagnosed with developmental/intellectual disability and their families, who reside in Toronto. This service is free and is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS).
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
Person-directed planning assists persons with developmental disabilities to create a meaningful life in their community by identifying their life goals and finding community connections, services and/or supports with the help of their families and/or significant others of their choice.
For more information to access funded planning for adults 18 years and older, read Person Directed Planning for Adults (18 years and over) brochure.
For more information to access funded plans for children and youth under 18 years, read Person Directed Planning for Children and Youth brochure.
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
If you have questions about Person-Directed Planning, contact Mansoora Qazi: [email protected] 416-971-6326 ext. 236
Individuals seeking mental health services in Ontario have learned to endure long wait times. But thanks to Family Service Toronto’s Wednesday Walk-In, counselling is available immediately for adults seeking therapy on the spot.
“We offer single-session counselling, which is a very specific intervention,” says Zaria Duncan, who joined FST in June 2016 as Manager of Counselling Services and Families in Transition program. “We do anything we can to help the client in a single session, so it tends to be more solution-focused and practical. We look for one or two concrete things to pass on that can be useful to them.”
FST counsellors Oona Fraser, Claudia Venegas and Alena Smith lead the walk-in program, providing exemplary administrative and clinical support. “On average, we are able to see 12 clients, but it’s been as many as 23 in one evening,” says Zaria.
“Clients come from all walks of life, from across Ontario, and often exhibit high levels of emotional distress. Our sessions have addressed depression, anxiety, phobias, suicidal ideation, abuse and complex trauma histories.”
The Walk-In marked its four year in 2016-17 with an evolving mix of clientele. Couples seeking therapy represented 20 per cent of attendees and a growing number of male and newcomer clients also contributed to the program’s diversity.
Zaria praises the team of volunteer therapists and students who make the program possible. “It takes a great deal of skill, knowledge and empathy to counsel clients from diverse backgrounds with varied mental health concerns,” she says.
Of the Walk-In’s success, Zaria simply notes, “It meets a need. Even though it is limited in what it can offer, people need someone to talk to and we are here to help.” Looking forward, she hopes to increase staffing and expand to a full-day program or two evenings per week.
Photo: Walk-In staff from top, Claudia Venegas, Alena Smith, Manager Zaria Duncan and Oona Fraser.
Most Canadian families with children had an extra reason to celebrate Canada Day in 2016 as they awaited their newly-redesigned and enhanced Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in July, thanks in part to anti-poverty advocacy work conducted at FST.
The new CCB – a more generous, tax-delivered and progressive benefit – was described as a “historic step forward in the battle against child poverty” by Campaign 2000 (C2000), a non-partisan coalition of 120 groups and individuals co-ordinated by Family Service Toronto.
“For decades, our national network has been on the front lines of calling for action against poverty. The new CCB is a life-changer for millions of children and families and should be accessible to all children across Canada,” said Anita Khanna, FST’s Director of Social Action and Community Building (SACB) and C2000’s National Co-ordinator.
As early as 2012, C2000 published a proposal to reduce child poverty through improved child benefits, making them simpler to administer, more generous and better targeted towards families in low income. Improving child benefits for families was a cornerstone election issue in 2015, with all major parties adopting some elements of C2000’s recommendations.
C2000 is an important part of FST’s advocacy work to influence and shape social policy on poverty issues. It is regarded as a leading national social policy organization and an authority on child poverty in Canada, releasing annual national and provincial report cards on child and family poverty with its partners across the country.
Nearly one in five children in Canada live in poverty. Low income families struggle with food insecurity, precarious employment, discrimination and a lack of affordable, high quality housing and childcare. C2000 continued its efforts into 2017 to encourage government to build on the CCB’s firm foundation and take crucial next steps to make poverty history.
Through 2016 and into 2017, advocacy also extended into FST’s community work through its SACB unit. It continued critical work in Lawrence Heights – a north-west community of ethnic and linguistic diversity. FST supported residents to speak out and act on their priorities through its role in a network of emerging groups and service providers. With major revitalization underway in the community, FST stood side by side with residents and partner agencies building inclusive futures for all.
“Your team treats our union members like real people.”
That’s just one of many positive comments Integrated Workplace Solutions (IWS) received from customers during their first year as a stand-alone commercial unit following the 2015 wind-down of FST’s social enterprise known as FSEAP (Family Services Employee Assistance Programs).
The four-person IWS team carried on and continued to build their portfolio into 2016-17 by providing a range of services to employers managing workers struggling with substance abuse. Customers include the Toronto Transit Commission, Loblaws and DriverCheck.
IWS Manager Paul Gardiner explains FST’s roots in the union movement and long commitment to social justice uniquely position IWS – both as a supplier meeting employers’ needs for due diligence when dealing with troubled employees while also standing in solidarity with such workers.
“We’re not into flashy marketing campaigns like our big competitors,” says Paul. “We simply tell employers we can provide truly independent, quality substance abuse assessments that benefit the employer and the employee.”
“We’re nimble, independent and offer national reach.”
That’s been key to making IWS’s first year successful as a stand-alone operation.
Strong customer retention, new clinical affiliates across Canada and innovative product development point to a bright future for IWS. Profits generated are pumped back into the FST budget to finance mental health services and other programs.
A 2016-17 highlight included participation with the TTC legal team to support its bid to introduce random drug testing among its 10,000 employees. The bid was successful.
IWS specializes in providing substance abuse assessment services to employers across Canada. Such assessments are necessary when employers need to meet their own policy requirements, human rights codes, and the legal obligation to accommodate mental health disabilities in the workforce.
Other services include training for managers to help them recognize staff behaviours that suggest substance abuse and a 100-week support program for recovering employees.
It’s been 10 years since Family Service Toronto began administering Ontario’s Passport program which helps adults with a developmental disability to participate in their communities and give caregivers a break.
The Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) allocates funds to adults for such activities as community classes, recreational programs or hiring support workers. FST processes 40,000 invoices annually from more than 3,200 participants who are reimbursed for the services.
With the program’s growing success have come administrative challenges as well as solutions including a major online initiative in the fall of 2016 when FST rolled out ePOS, which allows participants to securely upload their invoices and receipts for processing and to check their funding balance.
“We already have 600 people registered,” says Anna Zhang, Operations Manager, Building Inclusive Communities. “Now 63 per cent are paid within one day and another 33 per cent are paid within two to five days. Individuals can get an email, text or automated voice message when funds are deposited into their account.”
FST’s Passport Advisory Committee provided input on making ePOS helpful and user friendly. Feedback on the resulting system has been positive and stands as another highlight in a decade of change and growth for Passport participants and their caregivers.
Photo: BIC Operations Manager Anna Zhang, left, and Venetta Tavernese, Manager of Passport and Person-Directed Planning Programs
1 Mission
4 Websites
9 Walk-in counselling sessions weekly *
13 Service locations
22 Languages of service
26 Community programs
67 Average service calls daily **
103 Years of operation
108 Generous donors and funders
140 Dedicated volunteers, trainees and students
168 Skilled and talented staff
28,717 People served through FST programs
60,838 Hours of service provided
85,895 Service contacts with clients registered in counselling programs
114,907 Visits to FST’s main website
* Provided through free Wednesday Walk-In counselling program
** Calls to FST’s Service Access Unit
Every donation to Family Service Toronto has a lasting and positive impact. All efforts have been made to ensure that donors who gave between Apr. 1, 2016 and Mar. 31, 2017 are listed correctly. We invite you to contact us with any concerns or questions.
Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation
Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto
Congregation of Notre Dame-Visitation Province
Nan Brown
Canadian Union of Public Employees
Ontario Teachers’ Federation
Randy Heaton
Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
Boiler Inspection & Insurance Co. of Canada
UNIFOR
Ursuline Religious of The Diocese of London Ont.
Vincent Thomson
University of Toronto
Hugh Crosthwait
Anonymous
Jonas Giesen
Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario
Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie
Joseph A. Iannuzzi
Janet Murphy
Norman E. Kraftchuk
Dan Stapleton
Children’s Aid Society of Toronto
Centre De Benevolat De La Peninsule Acadienne
CUPE Local 2316
PACE Consulting
Rony Alexander
Gary Thibert
Donna Schaffer Lero
Eileen Lewis
Elizabeth J. Shields
Grascan Construction
Kathy Glazier
Keri Gammon
Laurel Rothman
Marian Hebb
Pawan Keer
Margo David
Al Pearlstein
Andrew A. Cruikshank
Cheryl Hamilton
Community Development Halton
Deer Park United Church
Dr. Carol Joann Edward
Edward & Grace McFarlane
Helen Saravanamuttoo
Julie Bulmash
Maria Christina Conlon
Mary Ann Schwartz
Mary Lewis
Michael Goldberg
Nancy Barker
Rodney R. Branch
Serge Dignard
Sidney & Victoria Frankel
Tom Engelhart
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre
Blake Koehler
David Lewis Stein
Douglas Gregory
Erna Paris
Jane Martin
Margaret Manning
Marty Gross
Nathan H. Gilbert
North Bay and District Labour Council
Anita Tyler
Melanie Cheskes
Anonymous
Celia Denov
Henry Barkin
Linda Woods
Bernard Gurian
Jill Solnicki
Anonymous (x4)
Paypal Charitable Giving Fund
Ruth Budd
Anonymous
Individuals seeking mental health services in Ontario have learned to endure long wait times. But thanks to Family Service Toronto’s Wednesday Walk-In, counselling is available immediately for adults seeking therapy on the spot.
“We offer single-session counselling, which is a very specific intervention,” says Zaria Duncan, who joined FST in June 2016 as Manager of Counselling Services and Families in Transition program. “We do anything we can to help the client in a single session, so it tends to be more solution-focused and practical. We look for one or two concrete things to pass on that can be useful to them.”
FST counsellors Oona Fraser, Claudia Venegas and Alena Smith lead the walk-in program, providing exemplary administrative and clinical support. “On average, we are able to see 12 clients, but it’s been as many as 23 in one evening,” says Zaria.
“Clients come from all walks of life, from across Ontario, and often exhibit high levels of emotional distress. Our sessions have addressed depression, anxiety, phobias, suicidal ideation, abuse and complex trauma histories.”
The Walk-In marked its four year in 2016-17 with an evolving mix of clientele. Couples seeking therapy represented 20 per cent of attendees and a growing number of male and newcomer clients also contributed to the program’s diversity.
Zaria praises the team of volunteer therapists and students who make the program possible. “It takes a great deal of skill, knowledge and empathy to counsel clients from diverse backgrounds with varied mental health concerns,” she says.
Of the Walk-In’s success, Zaria simply notes, “It meets a need. Even though it is limited in what it can offer, people need someone to talk to and we are here to help.” Looking forward, she hopes to increase staffing and expand to a full-day program or two evenings per week.
Photo: Walk-In staff from top, Claudia Venegas, Alena Smith, Manager Zaria Duncan and Oona Fraser.
Most Canadian families with children had an extra reason to celebrate Canada Day in 2016 as they awaited their newly-redesigned and enhanced Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in July, thanks in part to anti-poverty advocacy work conducted at FST.
The new CCB – a more generous, tax-delivered and progressive benefit – was described as a “historic step forward in the battle against child poverty” by Campaign 2000 (C2000), a non-partisan coalition of 120 groups and individuals co-ordinated by Family Service Toronto.
“For decades, our national network has been on the front lines of calling for action against poverty. The new CCB is a life-changer for millions of children and families and should be accessible to all children across Canada,” said Anita Khanna, FST’s Director of Social Action and Community Building (SACB) and C2000’s National Co-ordinator.
As early as 2012, C2000 published a proposal to reduce child poverty through improved child benefits, making them simpler to administer, more generous and better targeted towards families in low income. Improving child benefits for families was a cornerstone election issue in 2015, with all major parties adopting some elements of C2000’s recommendations.
C2000 is an important part of FST’s advocacy work to influence and shape social policy on poverty issues. It is regarded as a leading national social policy organization and an authority on child poverty in Canada, releasing annual national and provincial report cards on child and family poverty with its partners across the country.
Nearly one in five children in Canada live in poverty. Low income families struggle with food insecurity, precarious employment, discrimination and a lack of affordable, high quality housing and childcare. C2000 continued its efforts into 2017 to encourage government to build on the CCB’s firm foundation and take crucial next steps to make poverty history.
Through 2016 and into 2017, advocacy also extended into FST’s community work through its SACB unit. It continued critical work in Lawrence Heights – a north-west community of ethnic and linguistic diversity. FST supported residents to speak out and act on their priorities through its role in a network of emerging groups and service providers. With major revitalization underway in the community, FST stood side by side with residents and partner agencies building inclusive futures for all.
“Your team treats our union members like real people.”
That’s just one of many positive comments Integrated Workplace Solutions (IWS) received from customers during their first year as a stand-alone commercial unit following the 2015 wind-down of FST’s social enterprise known as FSEAP (Family Services Employee Assistance Programs).
The four-person IWS team carried on and continued to build their portfolio into 2016-17 by providing a range of services to employers managing workers struggling with substance abuse. Customers include the Toronto Transit Commission, Loblaws and DriverCheck.
IWS Manager Paul Gardiner explains FST’s roots in the union movement and long commitment to social justice uniquely position IWS – both as a supplier meeting employers’ needs for due diligence when dealing with troubled employees while also standing in solidarity with such workers.
“We’re not into flashy marketing campaigns like our big competitors,” says Paul. “We simply tell employers we can provide truly independent, quality substance abuse assessments that benefit the employer and the employee.”
“We’re nimble, independent and offer national reach.”
That’s been key to making IWS’s first year successful as a stand-alone operation.
Strong customer retention, new clinical affiliates across Canada and innovative product development point to a bright future for IWS. Profits generated are pumped back into the FST budget to finance mental health services and other programs.
A 2016-17 highlight included participation with the TTC legal team to support its bid to introduce random drug testing among its 10,000 employees. The bid was successful.
IWS specializes in providing substance abuse assessment services to employers across Canada. Such assessments are necessary when employers need to meet their own policy requirements, human rights codes, and the legal obligation to accommodate mental health disabilities in the workforce.
Other services include training for managers to help them recognize staff behaviours that suggest substance abuse and a 100-week support program for recovering employees.
It’s been 10 years since Family Service Toronto began administering Ontario’s Passport program which helps adults with a developmental disability to participate in their communities and give caregivers a break.
The Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) allocates funds to adults for such activities as community classes, recreational programs or hiring support workers. FST processes 40,000 invoices annually from more than 3,200 participants who are reimbursed for the services.
With the program’s growing success have come administrative challenges as well as solutions including a major online initiative in the fall of 2016 when FST rolled out ePOS, which allows participants to securely upload their invoices and receipts for processing and to check their funding balance.
“We already have 600 people registered,” says Anna Zhang, Operations Manager, Building Inclusive Communities. “Now 63 per cent are paid within one day and another 33 per cent are paid within two to five days. Individuals can get an email, text or automated voice message when funds are deposited into their account.”
FST’s Passport Advisory Committee provided input on making ePOS helpful and user friendly. Feedback on the resulting system has been positive and stands as another highlight in a decade of change and growth for Passport participants and their caregivers.
Photo: BIC Operations Manager Anna Zhang, left, and Venetta Tavernese, Manager of Passport and Person-Directed Planning Programs
Pour des informations en français
Passport is a program that helps adults with a developmental disability to participate in their communities, and helps caregivers take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), the Passport program works to:
For more information about the passport program, the Passport Program guidelines, Passport documents, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit https://passportfunding.ca/.
Family Service Toronto has an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. FST welcomes clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
128A Ste. 202, Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Phone: 416-780-1106 [email protected]
Submit invoices and receipts to: [email protected]
Our Passport Coordinator Team:
At Family Service Toronto our clients are the reason for our existence and their feedback informs our actions and activity plans. To ensure client voices are reflected in our work, we conduct annual Client Satisfaction Surveys.
If you are an FST client, this survey gives us a chance to hear directly from you about your experiences, your needs, and your expectations from our programs and services.
Your feedback helps shape the way we work. It influences our planning for programs and services, strengthens our relationships, and ensures we continue to support all our clients and community members. Whether it’s acknowledging what’s working well or identifying areas for improvement, your insights guide us forward.
English Français Español العربية فارسی தமிழ்
Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts.
Your voice matters — and we’re listening.
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To help you prepare for your safety in a variety of situations, Victim Services Toronto (VHS) created the checklists below for you to consider. These lists are in PDF format and can easily be printed or saved to your computer for reference. You will need Adobe Acrobat to open this files. Clicking on the links below will open the PDF in a new browser window.
These files, shared courtesy of Victim Services Toronto, are also available in other languages by clicking the links on Victim Services Toronto Safety Planning.
Call 911 for any situation requiring immediate assistance (police, fire, and/or ambulance).
Distress centre of Toronto: 416-408-HELP (4357)
Provides confidential service available 24 hours a day to persons in distress. Access to a confidential interpreter for callers in crisis offered in 151 languages.
Call 211 or go to 211toronto.ca
Call the Police at 911 in an emergency
211 Toronto Abuse and Sexual Abuse services
416-863-0511 or 1-866-863-0511 outside 416 area
Toll-free: 1-888-364-1210
Website: http://www.awhl.org/
Confidential and anonymous; telephone crisis counselling, information and support; referral to emergency shelters; legal information and community services, as well as culturally appropriate resources for abused women; liaison with diverse communities.
416-392-6877
Website: http://www.the519.org/
It responds to hate crimes based on sexual or gender orientation and to same-sex or pansexual partner abuse.
Bashing Report Line for victims or witnesses of homophobic assaults: http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/rhvp/rhvp_pamphlet.pdf
416-392-6655
Website: https://foodshare.net
Linked with Community Info 211 to provide 24-hour assistance for locating food banks or free hot meals.
416-203-0050
Website: http://www.dailybread.ca/
Provides names and locations of food banks in Toronto Area. Requires an interview. Home address and income statement must be provided.
416-355-6783
Website: http://www.the519.org/
A year-round programme featuring meals, movies, meeting place and resource information for homeless people.
416-355-6778
Website: http://www.the519.org/programs/meal-trans
Meal Trans is a multi-service drop-in primarily for lower-income and street-active transsexual and transgendered people. We provide a place for ts/tg people to get together over a healthy meal, access resources, information, and referrals, discuss issues relevant to our lives, learn with and from each other, and build a stronger community.
416-699-OOTC
Provides safe refuge, hospitality and emergency shelter to the homeless community at different sites throughout the City of Toronto List of OOTC sites is available online.
416-928-3334
Website: http://416community.com/
Dundas St. (Parliament & Dundas).Offers a range of services for women including meals, recreations, showers, telephones, etc.
416-364-8228
Website: http://www.fredvictor.org/
146 Queen St (Jarvis & Queen) offers a range of services including low-cost meals.
To make an inquiry or get information about shelter services, please call Hostel Services’ general line at 416-392-8741.
416-338-4766
A 24-hour hotline providing information and referrals to shelters for singles.
From a payphone, call the Toll Free number 1-877 338-3398.
Nightly walk-in from 8:30pm to 7:30am at 67 Adelaide Street East (temporary location)
416-397-5637
A central referral service for families who are homeless or at risk of losing their home. Information and referral to family shelters.
416-392-0090
Across the entire City, seven days a week, 365 days a year, street outreach workers from community-based services and the City’s Streets to Homes unit help homeless people living outside get a safer place to sleep and find long-term housing.
Toronto Social Housing: 416-981-6111
East York Housing: 416-424-2008
York Housing: 416 653-5400
Scarborough Housing: 416-285-8070 ext. 302
North: 416-741-1553
South: 416-252-6471
Community Resource of Connection Toronto: 416-482-4103
Centre for Spanish Speaking People: 416-533-8545
Evangel Hall: 416-504-3563
Romero House: 416-763-1303; 416-763-2939 (referrals for refugee claimants new to Canada)
416-978-6447
720 Spadina Ave. #418
Website: http://downtownlegalservices.ca/
Student Legal Aid Society clinic, funded by Legal Aid Ontario. Legal advice and representation provided by supervised law student volunteers covering many areas of law including: tenant issues, social assistance, pensions, employment rights, minor criminal offenses, some small claims actions, Legal Aid appeals, Employment Insurance (EI), academic and student loan appeals, Criminal Injuries Compensation Board referrals, public legal education workshops.
To apply for Legal Aid Certificate call: 416-979-1446
The Families in Transition program closed effective Oct. 10, 2025.
Following are helpful resources regarding family separation and divorce.
Children Coping with Separation and Divorce
10 Ways to Minimize Conflict with Children
What can Families in Transition do to Help
Counselling and Reading Materials handout
The 519
Abrigo Center
The Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic
Canadian Hearing Services (for people deaf & hard of hearing)
Catholic Family Services of Toronto
The Centre for Spanish Speaking Peoples
The Child Development Institute
Chinese Family Services of Ontario
COSTI Immigrant Services
Jewish Family and Child Service
Native Child & Family Services of Toronto
The Neighborhood Organization
Oasis Centre des Femmes
Riverdale Immigrant Women’s Centre
Scarborough Women’s Centre
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre
Tropicana Community Services
West Neighbourhood House
Women’s College Hospital Trauma Therapy Program
Women’s Habitat
Women’s Health in Women’s Hands
Your local Community Health Centre – look up Toronto Community Health Centre
Hospital of Sick Kids (Centre for Community Mental Health)
The Child Development Institute
Kids Help Phone
Lumenus
Open Counselling
Strides Toronto
What’s Up Walk-In
Yorktown Family Services
Youthlink
The following list outlines websites that contain publications of interest for separating, divorcing, and blending families. Examples of publications from each website are noted in bullets. Please access websites for full publication listings.
Community members are invited to access our free Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
Virtual sessions are available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In-person sessions are available on Thursdays at our 355 Church Street location. For more Information, go to Single Session Walk-in Counselling program page or download the flyer
To book a virtual single session today, please call our Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618
Distress Centre: 416-408-HELP (4357)
Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 416-863-0511 or 1-866-863-0511
Gerstein Centre – Crisis line: 416-929-5200
Community Information and Toronto Community Crisis 211 or go to 211Toronto.ca
Counselling | Options | Options – Children | Violence against Women | David Kelley Services | Seniors and Caregivers Support Services | Seniors Community Connections | Healthy Families, Healthy Communities
A six-week group for individuals interested in learning strategies to reduce anxiety and distress. Every week a new technique will be introduced and practised to help you with reducing your anxiety and having more self-regulation. Participants will discover they are not alone in their distress and that others struggle with similar issues, share information and learn from each other, and experience a safe place within which to practice new skills.
Members will not be allowed in the group if they skip the first two session since the material and practice of it is build up on each session.
Date: Dates to be announced for 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: virtual on Zoom
Fee: Sliding scale based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Registration: Prescreening required at registration time.
Please call Family Service Toronto, Service Access Unit 416.595.9618
This 8-week webinar is for people who have experienced trauma. This online webinar is an invitation to practice gentle trauma-informed yoga and to learn how yoga/mindfulness are useful for trauma recovery. Participants will gain skills to assist them in understanding and managing trauma responses. Each session will include both an educational component as well as a yoga practice. The yoga offered in this webinar is suitable for both beginners and those who already have a yoga practice.
Date(s): October 31 – December 19, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Registration: The webinar is free. To register or for more information contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit. 416.595.9618
[email protected]
This weekly webinar is an invitation to engage in a guided mindfulness practice. Each week, a counsellor will lead participants through a meditation and provide information about a weekly topic, such as mindfulness, coping strategies, or understanding emotion.
Date(s): Every Monday
Time: 1 – 1:30 p.m.
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register or for more information contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
In this virtual, weekly sessions series you’ll engage in body-based grounding techniques, practice trauma-informed yoga, and learn how these practices help improve emotional and physical well-being.
This program is open to anyone who wants to manage strong emotions like anxiety, depression, or trauma responses.
Date(s): To be announced
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
Join us for an informative workshop on respite care options for children and youth with special needs. Learn about different types of respite, available funding, and how to find and hire support workers. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, this session will provide practical tools, resources, and guidance to help you take care of yourself while ensuring your loved one receives quality care.When & Where
Date: October 7 & November 20, 2025
Time: 11a.m.
Location: Virtual, on Zoom
Registration
The group is free. Register online for your chosen date:
October 7: bit.ly/RespiteCare_Oct7
November 20: bit.ly/RespiteCare_Nov20
Have you ever wondered how to make connections in your community?
Do you ever wonder how to use social networks and relationships to build and maintain a Support Circle for people with disabilities and their families?
Join Extend-A-Family and Family Service Toronto for a free 3-part series on Support Circles to learn about circles and their benefits, hear other people’s stories, map networks and engage in interactive sessions.
Dates:
October 15, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 1: Sharing Knowledge: What is a circle; Why we do them.
October 29, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 2: Types of Support Circles . We will invite 2-3 young people/ families to share their stories, share their vision, process
November 12, 2025 | 11a.m.
Part 3: Interactive session. Engaging and mapping networks exercise
Location: Zoom
Registration: The group is free.
Register online at: https://bit.ly/SupportCircles_Fall2025
Or contact Kristen Carhart: 647-292-5175 or [email protected]
A virtual information session on Autism, and how AccessOAP can support children and youth on the autism spectrum and their families. This workshop, presented in collaboration with AccessOAP is suitable for families who have a diagnosed loved one under 18, and community members who are interested in learning more about Autism and services available.
When: Thursday, Oct 9, Nov 6 & Dec 4, 2025
Time: 11 a.m.
Where: online
Registration: please use registration links for the preferred date.
October 9: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Oct9
November 6: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Nov6
December 4 at: bit.ly/AutismInfoSession_Dec4
Have you ever wanted to know more about developmental disabilities such as Autism?
Are you interested in how to navigate the service system or strategies to support a loved one or friend? Come join us for an information session on Developmental Disabilities, Autism, and strategies for navigating the service sector across the lifespan and supporting a loved one. This workshop is suitable for families with a newly diagnosed loved one, and community members who are interested in learning more about developmental disabilities and the sector.
Location: Zoom
Dates, time and registration to be announced
If interested, reach out to [email protected] to be added to waitlist?
Ever wonder what you need to register your child for camp? Not sure what camps are out there? Come join us for an information session on camps and respite registration. This single-session workshop is suitable for caregivers of children 4 -18 who would like to have a better understanding of the what’s, when, and how’s of registering for camp
Date & time:
Please register for one of the available sessions:
October 21 | 11am https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KLFflXcNQyube9oWkHg6jQ
November 18 | 11am https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Oytyg4opTKqRlFHT-HBpew
Where: Virtual on Zoom
Fee: Free
Come learn about provincial and charitable funding that you and your child may be eligible for. Receive a resource package with links and steps for completing the applications. This workshop is suitable for caregivers of children birth to 18 who would like to have a better understanding of funding for children with special needs.
Dates & registration
Please register for one of the two sessions.
November 13 | https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__T1LMQB3RemW9Ay8SUDxcA
Time: 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Where: Virtual on Zoom
Fee: Free
This 60 minute, 1:1 consultation is designed to provide caregivers who have children and/or youth with a disability between the ages of 0-18 years of age, with an opportunity to gain information about FST’s children’s programs and Toronto region to assist with supportive needs of their loved one
When: Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5
Location: Virtual, on Teams
Registration
One hour times slots between 9-5
Registrants will be contacted to book a time slot to meet.
https://forms.office.com/r/M2r3gMpeDQ
A 4-part virtual webinar series for women-identified survivors of trauma and/or gender-based violence offered by METRAC and the Violence Against Women Program at Family Service Toronto. This webinar series is suitable for those who are interested in understanding and gaining family law knowledge.
Dates and topics:
Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
October 2: Navigating the Justice System
October 9: Finding and Working with a Lawyer
October 16: Legal Aid Ontario: What you need to know
October 23: Divorce and Separation: What you need to know
Location: Zoom Webinar
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
Learn about money, your career and planning for the future
A 4-week workshop series for women-identified survivors of gender-based violence and/or trauma offered by the Canadian Foundation for Economic Education (CFEE) and the Violence Against Women Program at Family Service Toronto. This webinar is suitable for those who are interested in learning more about changes in the workplace, careers, and money matters.
Dates and topics:
Thursdays: 12 – 1:30 p.m.
October 30: Preparing for the Future of Work and your Career
November 6: Living a Financially Healthy Life
November 13: Making Retirement a Reality
November 20: Moving Through your Career: Conversations with Women in the Workplace*
*Be inspired by guest speakers who will share their journeys and offer guidance on the workplace today, careers, and finances
How: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register, contact the Service Access Unit.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Email: [email protected]
A free, 16-session, psychotherapy group for self-identified male (18 +) survivors of sexual abuse who seek support to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago.
Who can participate?
Self-identified males, inclusive of 2SGBTQ+ individuals, who are sexual abuse survivors, and
Date: Dates to be announced
Time: 2.00 – 4:30 p.m.
Fee: free
Registration information: Pre-screening, 30 min, required.
Contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618, [email protected]
2STNB+ Connect Peer Support Group is now offered by DKS services and it replaces 2STNB Peer Support Group, previously offered by Queer and Connected.
This virtual peer support group assists youth across the gender identity spectrum to meet and connect with others in their community, explore their identities, and make friends.
Dates: Ongoing; Bi-weekly, Wednesdays: Sep 4 & 18; Oct. 2, 16 & 30; Nov. 12 & 26…
Time: 7:00 – 9:00p.m.
Location: virtually on Zoom (a link will be provided to all participants in advance of workshops)
Cost: Free
Registration/information: The group is open to 2STNB+ youth 16-29 in Toronto and the GTA
Register with Keith at [email protected]
Follow on Instagram
Download flyer
This is an online skills group offering 2SLGBTQ+ clients a space to learn and practice the emotional skills needed for managing stress, regulating emotions and having healthier relationships. Each session centers a core emotional skill, with sessions building and integrating upon one another. Groups are limited to maximum 10 participants.
Date(s): to be announced
Time: 1-2:30pm
Fee: Sliding scale based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Registration information: Pre-screening required. Contact Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Eligibility: Participants have to be eligible for services through DKS; interested in learning tools to cope with emotional dysregulation; and able to commit to attending 5/8 sessions.
Art in Trans*ition is an arts-based peer support group at David Kelley Services (DKS). This 5-session virtual group will use art making to reflect on our own gender transitions – social, emotional, medical and physical. We will explore a variety of themes through writing, drawing, poetry, zines, comics and more. For and by 2STNB+ people, this group is inclusive of everyone on a journey of gender transition, whatever transition means to them. Participants of all art-making experience and abilities are welcome (even if that is none!).
Required art supplies: Journal; pen and pencil; phone camera.
More options: Scissors, tape and glue; collage scarps; paint and brushes; markers; crayons; your art medium of choice.
When: Wednesdays, October 1, 15, 29; November 12 & 26, 2025
Time: 7 – 9 p.m.
Location: virtually on Zoom (a link will be provided to all participants in advance of workshops)
Cost: Free
Registration/information: Open to youth aged 16-29 in Toronto and the GTA
Register with Keith at [email protected]
Follow on Instagram
Terapia grupal en español que ofrece apoyo para abordar el impacto los efectos acumulativos en la salud mental de la inmigración, la orientación sexual, el género, la raza y los desafíos de salud.
Este grupo semanal gratuito apoya a personas de habla hispana que viven con VIH y se identifican como gays, bisexuales u otros hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (GBMSM), enfocándose en lograr la regulación emocional, la autogestión y la resiliencia.
Fechas y hora (en 2025)
De 10 a. m. a 12 p. m.
Ubicación: 355 Church Street, Toronto
INFORMACIÓN DE REGISTRO: Se requiere una preevaluación de 30 minutos. Comuníquese con la Unidad de Acceso al Family Services Toronto al 416.595.9618 | [email protected]
Bienestar is a Spanish-speaking group therapy providing support to navigate the cumulative mental health effects of immigration, sexual orientation, gender, race, and health challenges. This free, weekly group supports Spanish Speaking individuals living with HIV who self-identify as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), and focuses on achieving emotional regulation, self-management, and resilience.
Dates: Fall dates to be announced
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: at 355 Church Street.
Registration: Pre-screening, 30 minutes required. Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
A virtual group for Hispanic/Latino immigrants, 55+, interested in exploring their experiences in Canada through the lens of the Iberoamerican literature and film.
The group offers interactive sessions, which by blending storytelling, open dialogue, and creative expression nurture growth, healing, and connection within a culturally resonant environment.
Rooted in narrative therapy, the group offers a space for healing through shared cultural stories. Participants will share stories, gain deeper insight into their journeys, build community, and feel more confident navigating life in Canada.
Date: October 2 – November 6, 2025
Time: Thursdays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Virtual group offered via Zoom
Registration: This group is free. For information and registration, contact the group facilitators: Evelyn Kachanovzky[email protected]Rodrigo Briones[email protected]
This 8-week, inter-generational art therapy group is a supportive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to come together across ages and lived experiences. Through creative expression, and shared storytelling, participants will explore themes of identity, resilience, and belonging.
The group is designed to foster meaningful connections, strengthen community ties, and promote healing through the arts. By bringing together different generations within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, we aim to honour diverse histories, encourage mutual learning, and build lasting relationships.
No previous art experience is required—just an openness to connect, create, and grow in community. Let’s create something beautiful, together.
Eligibility: 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals (16 +)
Participants have to be eligible for services with SCSS or DKS and identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Dates: to be announced
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Where: 355 Church St, 3rd Floor
Registration:
The group is limited to 12 participants (16+). Pre-screening is required.
Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
El Camino a Casa es un programa semanal para personas mayores de habla hispana que desean hablar sobre la experiencia de emigrar a Canadá. En un espacio seguro y confidencial, los participantes tienen la oportunidad de compartir sus experiencias como inmigrantes y el impacto que la inmigración ha tenido en sus vidas. El programa fomenta la comprensión y el crecimiento personal.
El Camino A Casa /The Road Home is weekly program for Spanish-speaking seniors who want to speak about the experience of immigrating to Canada. In a safe and confidential space, participants have the opportunity to share experiences as immigrants and the impact immigration had on their lives. The program promotes understanding and personal growth.
Dates: Weekly, every Thursday
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: virtual on Zoom
Registration: Call Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Join our discussion group for women 60+. Learn to restore your self-confidence and build support in your life.
Date: Second and fourth Monday afternoon each month
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for parents 55+ of adult children who have been unable to secure their independence due to:
Come out and meet other parents who are dealing with similar issues. Learn how to protect yourself against abuse while supporting your adult child in gaining independence.
Date: Fourth Thursday each month
Time: 1:30 – 3 p.m.Learn about finances and increase your financial literacy
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for women 60+
Sharing our stories, we discover we are not alone.
When: Second Wednesday each month;
Time: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: Please call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-961
This 10-session group is offered by FST’s Seniors and Caregivers Support Service (SCSS) counsellors. Are you caring for or concerned about a senior (55+)? Maybe a parent, spouse, partner, relative or friend? This closed group explores various topics related to aging and caregiving over a 11-week cycle. Each session will have an educational component as well as opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, offer support, and share experiences. Participants have the opportunity to bring their own topics for discussion or request counsellors provide focused guidance for specific issues. The group is limited to 10 participants.
When: To be announced
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Offered via Zoom
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Eligible for services with SCSS, in a caregiving role for someone age 55+
Registration information: Pre-screening, 30 min, required.
To pre-register contact the Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
A discussion group for anyone aged 55 and over offered by Seniors and Caregivers Support Service counsellors.
Bring some coffee or tea and join FST counsellors for a weekly drop-in chat. We will discuss a variety of topics with the goal of building connection and support with one another.
Date(s): First and third Wednesday of each month
2025: Fall dates to be announced
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
How: Offered via Zoom or phone
Cost: Free
Registration information: To register contact the Family Service Toronto Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618 or email: [email protected]
Every Wednesday, older adults in the Latino Hispanic community meet in person or via Zoom to socialize. And once a month to watch a movie and share a pizza at Sterling Road. Coordinators: Evelyn & Rodrigo
Where & When:128 Sterling Rd, 2nd floor Office 202 | 11 AM to 1:30 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
On the second Monday of each month, Latino-Hispanic seniors meet to play board games, games to sharpen the mind, or engage in light and entertaining exercises. Coordinators: Evelyn & Rodrigo
Participants meet to laugh, have fun and a good time.
Where & When: 355 Church St. | 11 AM to 1:30 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
Every Friday, come with your iPad, iPhone, computer or other device you use to practice and find answers to questions that arise while using new technologies. Coordinator Rodrigo
Where & When: Birkdale Community Centre, 1299 Ellesmere Rd., Scarborough | 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Information: 416.216.8460
A brief review of what is relevant at the local level with an indication of available services that help overcome the challenges in “Times of Coronavirus”. The program is offered by Seniors Community Connections (SCC)
Audience: Latino Hispano Community
Facilitator: Rodrigo Briones, SCC Coordinator, Lation Hispano Community Facilitator
Date(s): Once a week
Time: Link to podcast always available
Cost: Free
Registration: Contact number for more information: Rodrigo 416.755.5565 ext. 438
Arriving Together is a peer support group created in partnership with Family Service Toronto and Rainbow Railroad for 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers (18+) to Canada. This group offers a warm and supportive environment for participants to share experiences, build connections, and grow community.
What to Expect:
Date & Time: The group is offered every week beginning September 22 until November 25, 2025. Exact dates and times vary based on weekly activities.
Location: In-person at 355 Church street and other locations
Registration: To register please contact: Family Service Toronto – Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or email: [email protected]
A Virtual Group Meeting to enhance women resiliency. Issues on self care and compassion, coping strategies, self-growth and lots more are discussed collectively. Program offered by the Violence against Women Program Facilitator (Nigerian Community)
Date(s): Every Tuesday
Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
How: Conference phone call
Cost: Free
Registration information: Contact Blessing by email [email protected]
Contact number for more information: 647 510 4371
Chitchat is a free group for Arabic-speaking women offered by Family Service Toronto – Healthy Families, Healthy Communities program in partnership with Arab Community Centre. The group offers an opportunity for women to meet, share and learn from each other, improve the quality of their family life, build skills for safe and healthy relationships, and gain awareness of resources.
Date(s): Biweekly, Thursdays
Time: 10:30 a.m – 1 p.m.
How: Victoria Park Hub, 1527 Victoria Park Ave., 2nd floor,
Cost: Free
Registration: Call Nariman Shabo, Counsellor, English and Arabic Speaking at 416-755-5565 Ext 402 or Email: [email protected]
The Family Service Toronto (FST) Accessibility Working Group (AWG) was created in June 2021 to improve access to FST services and supports for service users.
The working group is introducing an Accessibility Advisory Group to make recommendations on accessibility to improve access to services. The Advisory Group members will be supported by FST staff and will consist of volunteers who are FST clients living with or caring for an individual living with a disability (this includes but is not limited to physical disabilities, developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, ASD, Acquired Brain Injury, or mental health conditions).
At Family Service Toronto, we would like to invite you to
Topics of discussion may include: service forms, website, physical barriers, etc.
We are looking for FST clients who have used services at Family Service Toronto and are:
The group will meet online, on Zoom, once a month for 12 months.
To apply to become a member of the group, please connect with
Sojie Tate
HR Operations Manager
e: [email protected]
416-595-9230 ext 300
Client’s Rights and Responsibilities
David Kelley Community Counselling – a program for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans individuals
David Kelley – HIV/AIDS – professional counselling and support services to people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS
Families in Transition Parenting Resources – helpful resources for separating, divorcing and blended families
Options – a program for people with intellectual disabilities
Partner Assault Response Program
French translation: Programmes d’intervention auprès des partenaires violents.
Tamil translation: பங்காளி தாக்குதல் மறுமொழி
Pat’s Place – a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse
Spanish translation: Lugar de Pat
Seniors and Caregivers – social work services to older people and caregivers
Violence Against Women – a program for women who are being abused
Tamil translation: பெண்களுக்கு எதிரான திட்டம் வன்முறை.
Read also Early Warning Signs of Abuse – a quiz for those wanting to see if they are in a healthy relationship. You can also take the quiz online
Family Service Toronto administers PassportONE for all Passport recipients across the province. As PassportONE, we review Passport claims and reimburse admissible expenses in accordance with the Passport guidelines.
Your local Passport agency will continue to be your point of contact for the Passport program, including questions regarding your Passport claims.
Passport recipients who self administer their funding have two electronic options to submit claims that make the process simple and easy to manage. You can find out more about these two options on Filing Claims page on Passport Funding website.
You can continue to submit claims by fax or email, if you need new Purchase of Service (POS) forms, please contact your local Passport agency.
For more information about the Passport program, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit Passport Funding site.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Charissa Tucker, our Senior Director of People and Culture, who died in April after a courageous battle with cancer.
Charissa was a remarkable leader whose impact on our organization cannot be overstated. She was instrumental in shaping our labour relations framework, developing and nurturing a vibrant and inclusive workplace culture, and offering unwavering support to our teams.
Her transparency, fearless leadership, and boundless compassion set a standard we will strive to uphold every day.
To honour her legacy, we are proud to introduce an annual recognition award in her name. The Charissa Tucker Award will celebrate employees who embody her collaborative spirit, creativity, and deep commitment to inclusion—qualities that defined her leadership and inspired all who worked with her. Charissa’s presence is deeply missed, but her influence will continue to guide us.
Executive Director
Chief Operating Officer
Chief Administrative Officer
Senior Director, Strategy and Innovation
Senior Director, People and Culture
Clinical
PassportONE
Finance
Communications and Special Projects
Technology and Business Intelligence
FST hosts two vital anti-poverty campaigns: national and Ontario Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty. Both campaigns are leading forces in Canada’s anti-poverty movement, promoting partnership, research, public awareness and policy change in order to eradicate child and family poverty. The campaign is non-partisan, working with all parties at all levels of government in partnership with 120 national partners and 70 provincial partners. Campaign 2000 and coalition partners across Canada publish annual report cards on child and family poverty and work to ensure the issues and solutions are featured in the media and accessible to communities ready to take action in order to end poverty for good.
Family Service Toronto (FST) works to reduce violence and abuse in intimate relationships.Our counsellors from a variety of specific FST programs work together, as part of our integrated Family Violence Centre, to address all forms of abuse.
If you are involved in an abusive relationship, we have several programs and services addressing different type of abuse: Violence against Women, Next Steps, David Kelley Lesbian and Gay Community Counselling, Seniors and Caregivers Support Services.
If you are an adult living with an intellectual disability, you may feel isolated and alone. You may be looking for housing, a job or ways to participate in your community, but aren’t sure who to talk to, or even where to begin. Similarly, if you are the parent of a child or teenager with an intellectual disability, you may be in need of information, resources and support for yourself and your family.
Family Service Toronto offers several Developmental Disabilities Services (see below) as well as the opportunity to participate in the Accessibility Advisory Group to make recommendations on accessibility and help improve access to our services.
During your childhood, you may have experienced trauma; physical, sexual or emotional abuse; a war; a serious accident, or the death of a parent or other family member. Any of these things can be devastating to a child. But sometimes even years after the actual trauma occurred, many adults still find they are affected by what happened to them as children.
Family Service Toronto offers short-term skills building and short- to medium-term counselling in an individual or group format to those who have had these experiences.
David Kelley Services recognizes that coming out is a very complex and unique process that differs for everyone, and offers counselling support for LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families who are navigating this process.
Coming out refers to the process of recognizing, sharing, and disclosing one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity with others. For some, coming out is an important experience. Others may not even feel the need to come out at all. Ultimately, the decision rests with you – only you can choose whether or not you disclose your sexuality and/or gender identity to others.
Separation, divorce and remarriage can create challenges for the whole family – especially the children. Quite often, children and adolescents experience feelings of sadness, loneliness and confusion as a result of a major family change.
Depression and stress are words that are used a lot today. It seems many people are either feeling depressed or stressed out. Symptoms range from feelings of sadness after a loss, like the break-up of a relationship or the death of a loved one, to symptoms of more severe depression, including loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, etc.
For people living with HIV, we provide counselling for a wide range of issues that may affect your health and wellbeing such as: the impact of being diagnosed with HIV, having a healthy sex life, being in healthy relationships, disclosing HIV status, dealing with stigma and discrimination, HIV and aging and more.
For people in magnetic relationships (mixed HIV status or serodiscordant couples) we offer couple counselling as well as individual support for HIV-negative partners regarding the impact of HIV, healthy sex, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), caregiver support, grief and loss, and more.
For people who are uncertain about their risk of getting HIV, we offer support regarding safer sex, understanding actual risks, deciding to get tested, considering pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and more.
Being a parent can be tough sometimes, whether you’re raising kids on your own, or with a partner. But some things can make the job even harder – things like being new in your community, or being isolated by cultural or language barriers, or having a child diagnosed with a developmental disability, or being unemployed.
Intimate relationships are extremely important to us. Most of us are either actively seeking them out or are trying to maintain the ones we have. They can be a great source of love, pleasure, support and excitement. However they can also be a source of pain and anguish if problems arise and don’t go away.
One thing that’s important to remember is that conflict is a normal part of all relationships. Learning how to resolve conflicts and differences of opinion is a must for any relationship to flourish. If you and your partner are still committed to your relationship, it’s important that you both acknowledge that this is a problem that must be addressed.
Aging can bring many changes in the lives of older adults: loss of independence, mobility and privacy; isolation; financial difficulties and the death of partners or friends are only a few of the challenges growing older presents. The stresses of caring for an older loved one can be equally overwhelming.
Transitional and Housing Support Services involves supports around attaining temporary or permanent housing for people in need. Family Service Toronto’s Transitional and Housing Support Program offers women-identified individuals who have made the decision to leave an abusive relationship practical support to assist their transition into their new home and community. This support can involve assistance with referrals to different supports (i.e., financial, legal, etc.), information regarding housing and support with housing applications, Ontario Works and ODSP among other applications.
Sexual orientation is commonly categorized based on the gender towards one holds an emotional, romantic, sexual or affectional attraction. Sexual orientation exists on a wide spectrum, and differs across cultures. In the West, the terms most commonly used to define one’s sexual orientation, are: gay (same-gender attraction between people who identify as men), lesbian (same-gender attraction between people who identify as women), straight (attraction to someone of a gender different from one’s own), bisexual (attraction towards individuals of any gender), queer (an umbrella term for non-straight sexual orientations), as well as asexual (the lack of/or minimal sexual attraction towards anyone).
Gender identity refers to an individual’s sense of being masculine, feminine, two-spirit, trans (which includes, but is not limited to: transgender, transfeminine, transmasculine, genderqueer, non-binary), or any other number of identities that may or may not align with the gender assigned to one at birth. For some people, their gender identity corresponds with the gender assigned to them at birth (what we would call cisgender). For others, gender identity differs from the gender assigned to one at birth. It is important to distinguish gender identity (one’s sense of gender) from sexual orientation (the gender towards which one is attracted to).
The Caring for the Caregiver project has ended. From July 2018- March 2020, Family Service Toronto received funding from the Ministry of Health to expand our programs to better meet the needs of those who are caring for a senior (family, friend, neighbour, client, spouse).
We connected with people who were currently supporting a senior (55+): family, friend, neighbour, client, spouse.
We worked within 7 specific communities:
Contact: Sera Kazmi, Manager, Violence against Women and Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Program
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 416.595.9230 x 136
Funding for this project was generously provided by the Province of Ontario. The views expressed in this publication are the views of Family Service Toronto and do not necessarily reflect those of the Province.
A free helpline that connects you to community and social services in your area 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in over 150 languages.
Phone: #211
Website: www.211ontario.ca
Free online resources for family and community caregivers. CareChannel features over 80 ‘how-to videos’, as well as careguides.
The user-friendly, online platform explores topics from self-care, to how to assist someone with crutches, to dementia care. CareChannel is available in five languages: English, French, Punjabi, Spanish, and Mandarin.
Free online resources for Ontario caregivers and a 24/7 help line in English and French. To access the help call 1-833-416-2273 [CARE].
Access to government funded home and community care services, including: care coordination, personal support workers, nurses, physiotherapy, social work, medical supplies and equipment, etc. across Ontario.
Phone: 310-2222 (no area code)
Website: lhins.on.ca
Information and referrals for senior support services, as well as supportive counseling over the phone for seniors and caregivers in Toronto.
Phone: 416-217-2077
Transit option for persons with disabilities to travel in Toronto if their disability prevents them from using TTC conventional transit.
Phone: 416-393-4111
Website: WheelTrans/How_to_appy/index.jsp
Counseling, support groups, and education for seniors and caregivers in Toronto.
Phone: 416-595-9618
Website: familyservicetoronto.org/our-services/programs-and-services/seniors-and-caregivers/
A website resource with information on services and tips for caregivers created through a partnership with thehealthline.ca Information Network (a non-profit organization) and the Local Health Integration Networks – Home and Community Care – of Ontario.
Website: caregiverexchange.ca/
A free crisis and emotional distress phone, online chat and text service that provides 24-hour support, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to individuals in the community.
Phone: 416-408-4357
Website: torontodistresscentre.com
The FST single-session counselling service is appropriate for adult individuals, couples, and families ages 18 and above. People come to the single session walk-in wanting help with a variety of issues that may include but are not limited to anxiety; depression; social isolation; interpersonal conflict; personal stress; trauma; relationship issues; parenting concerns; general emotional upset; coping with abuse.
Due to the nature of the single-session model one cannot request a particular counsellor. We cannot guarantee that you will see the same counsellor if you return to the single session walk-in. Single-session counselling is not the same as on-going counselling where you see the same counsellor on a regular basis.
There is a growing amount of research that shows that single-session counselling has a positive impact for many people because they get the help they want when they most need it. Single-session counselling has been proven to decrease emotional distress in the short-term and may have positive long-term impact as well. Some people only need one or two counselling sessions to significantly improve their emotional well-being. Single-session counselling can help a person enhance their personal insight, access their healthy emotional resources, and develop useful coping strategies. The single session can help people develop helpful coping skills which may assist in the wait for more long-term services. The counsellor works collaboratively with each person to co-create a plan for support. With very few accessible counselling resources in the City of Toronto, the walk-in single-session counselling service is a valuable service for those who want the help now.
All counsellors are registered psychotherapists or social workers.
Upon arriving a receptionist will give you some paperwork that includes a one-page client information form, a brief questionnaire, and a service agreement. You will also be asked to read some information about your rights as a client and the Family Service Toronto privacy statement.
While Single Session Walk-in Counselling is always available in English, many of the counsellors on the team speak other languages. If you require counselling in a specific language, please contact the Service Access Unit, who will advise you as to whether we have a counsellor who speaks that language and when that counsellor may be available.
The questionnaire is to help people focus their thoughts on a single issue that is of most concern to them at the time they are at the session. Some of the questions are:
Registration for the in-person single-session begins at 2 pm for first and second-time clients. Wait time is based on the volume of clients. Our last appointment starts at 6 pm. Please be aware that due to capacity issues, it may not be possible to see all people who come to the in-person single-session on a given day.
Family Service Toronto is not able to provide child-care/child minding services during the session. If you have young children who require supervision, please ensure that you make arrangements for their care before you come to the walk-in. Children are not allowed to attend counselling sessions with their parents/guardians due to the sensitive nature of the sessions that are held. This includes babies.
Counselling at Family Service Toronto is strictly CONFIDENTIAL. The limitations to confidentiality include (1) If there is a safety or abuse concern about a minor (16 years old or under); (2) If client indicates that s/he may be an immediate physical threat to her/himself or another; (3) If the counsellor is subpoenaed by the court.
People who have had three single-session consultations within a 12-month period can only register for the in-person sessions at 5:30 pm on Thursdays and they will be offered the last time slot only if capacity allows.
For the virtual single session: If you have had 3 sessions within a 12-month period, you may request a session, however you will be placed on standby, and priority will be given to clients who have not previously accessed the service.
All appointments, registrations to FST groups and workshops as well as referrals to other services are handled through our Service Access Unit (SAU).
SAU works mostly by telephone.
Hours of operation:
Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 6 pm
Friday: 9 am – 5 pm
Phone: 416-595-9618
Fax: 416-595-0242
[email protected]
Our priority is what is best for you, our client.
When you call SAU to request an appointment or to register for a group/workshop you will be asked a series of questions which are designed to help us connect you to the service that best meets your needs.
You will be asked to provide your personal information and you may be put on a wait list for service. When a time slot becomes available you will be called to confirm an appointment date and you will be provided with the name of your Counsellor.
If Family Service Toronto is not the right fit for you, we are able to offer alternatives and referrals to other services within Toronto area.
For your first counselling session you are required to arrive 15 minutes before your session to complete the paperwork required for Counselling at FST. To speed up the process, you can print out the Client Information Form, complete it and bring it with you.
You will do the following:
How can FST help me?
Sometimes the challenges we face in our daily lives become too difficult to manage alone. We may need someone to talk to who can help us find solutions. Family Service Toronto (FST) is a non-profit, social service agency which offers a variety of counselling programs; one-to-one, with couples and families, or in groups to help people cope with the challenges of:
Is FST open to anyone?
FST is strongly committed to anti-discrimination practices for all our clients, volunteers and employees. Our services are available to everyone living or working in Toronto, regardless of their age, cultural background, race or sexual orientation. In order to serve Toronto’s large and diverse population, we offer service in numerous languages and many of our offices are wheelchair accessible.
What can I expect from my counselling?
At FST, we offer an encouraging and supportive environment. Our skilled professional counsellors will help you explore and understand your problem, and help you develop solutions.
How can I get the most out of my counselling?
Counselling can be a very rewarding experience, but it takes hard work and dedication. That’s why it is important to attend all your scheduled sessions and be open to new ways of looking at yourself. It is also important to be an active participant and to tell us what you find helpful or unhelpful throughout the counselling process.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
If you can’t attend a scheduled appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours before your session. This way we can offer your time to another client.
If you don’t give us at least 24 hours advance notice, you will be required to pay for the session in programs that charge fees, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
What if I want a different counsellor?
We understand how important it is for you to feel comfortable with your counsellor and this can take time. That’s why we encourage you to get to know your counsellor before deciding whether their style is right for you. If you still think you will have difficulty working together, you can ask to speak with your counsellor’s manager. Together we’ll find a solution.
Is my information/counselling confidential?
All your personal data and anything discussed between you and your counsellor is private and confidential within FST. To get advice on how to be most helpful to you, your counsellor may consult with the service team, colleagues within FST, supervisor or program consultant. We will not provide other individuals with your information without your written consent.
There are some special circumstances where we may release information regarding your counselling:
For more information please read our Privacy Statement
Where are you located?
We provide services at several locations within Toronto area. However, none of these locations offers all FST services. When you call our centralized Service Access Unit (416-595-9618) our staff will help you get the service you need at the best location available. Our main locations are:
Is parking available?
Free parking is available at most of our locations.
Can I bring my children with me for my counselling appointment?
Unless they are part of the session or group work, you can not bring your children with you. However, if they do not require supervision, they can wait for you in the general waiting room.
What type of counselling do you offer?
We offer practical solutions, short-term counselling to individuals and families going through various difficult situations. We are not a drop-in or crisis service. To learn more about our counselling service, read about our Counselling Services.
What are the qualifications of FST counsellors?
FST counsellors are experienced social workers or psychotherapists. They have post-graduate education at the Master’s or Doctoral level.
Can I see my record?
At any time you may request to see a copy of our client record for you by writing a note to Family Service Toronto. Please provide your name, birth date, phone number and address. We will call you to set up an appointment for you to review your personal information. To ensure confidentiality, you must view the information on the premises. However, you can request that information about yourself be released to specific people such as your doctor or another agency. We will need you to sign a consent form before we release this information.
What if I want to correct information in my record?
For your protection, once your record is written, we at FST cannot change it. However, if you find statements that are not factually accurate or opinions you disagree with, you can add corrected information to the record. You can do this after reviewing your file. You will need to send us your corrections. Please sign and date your information. Once you’ve submitted your corrected information, it will go on the record and we will notify you of our response to your corrections within three weeks.
What if I have a complaint?
We want to know what you think of our service. All our staff welcome your comments and we encourage you to speak with your counsellor directly about any concerns you may have about our service.
For any questions, concerns or complaints about how your personal information has been collected or used please contact FST’s Privacy Officer by email at [email protected] or call 416-595-9230 ext. 316. You can also make a complaint to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario by calling 416-326-3333.
Do I have to pay a fee for service?
Family Service Toronto strives to provide high quality, accessible services. For this reason, services are provided based on a sliding fee scale in programs that are not supported by outside revenues or where we are required, through funding contracts, to charge for services.
What is the fee for service?
Fees are charged on a sliding scale, based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Fees for individual counselling services range from $10 to $150 per hour.
When and how will my fee be calculated?
When you first contact us, we will ask you for information about your total household income before tax and how many people live in the household. It is a good idea to have a income tax notice of assessment or other information related to your income available to you when you call. At the time of this call, or when you are contacted for your first appointment, we will provide you with an estimate of the fee you will be expected to pay. The staff person you meet with will review this and set the actual fee with you. You will be asked to sign a fee contract at this time and pay this fee at the end of your first interview.
What if I can’t pay the fee you have calculated?
No one is denied service because of an inability to pay. Talk to the FST staff person you will be working with and they will determine how much we will ask you to pay. We may ask you to provide us with proof of expenses if your fee is going to be reduced.
What happens if I don’t want to pay a fee for service?
If your income permits you to pay a fee, it is expected that you will do so. If you choose not to pay, we will not be able to provide service.
What happens if my income changes?
Income can go up or down. If this happens to you, please talk to the staff person you are working with so they can work to determine if we can make an adjustment to your fee. We may need you to provide us with proof of expenses if this occurs.
What is the minimum amount of time a fee is charged for?
The minimum fee charged for counselling services is for one hour. Your counselling appointment will be for 50 minutes and the staff person will use the remaining 10 minutes to make notes on your work together. Fees for groups are based on a group rate.
Will I be charged extra fees for extra time?
Yes. If your counselling appointment continues beyond the hour, you will be charged based on the quarter hour. For example, if your appointment goes for 1 hour and 10 minutes, you will be charged for 1.25 hours.
Will I be charged for services provided over the phone or electronically?
There is normally no charge for brief telephone calls to set up or confirm appointments or to provide brief information. If you and your staff person decide to set up a telephone or e-counselling interview your counselling fee will apply.
Will I be charged a fee if I don’t come to my appointment or I am late?
If you do not provide 24 hours notice of an appointment you cannot make, you will be charged for the missed appointment. If you are late for an appointment, your fee will be charged based from the time your appointment was set. We are not able to extend appointments if you are late.
To notify us that you need to cancel an appointment, please call the staff person you are working with and leave a message. We make every effort to start appointments on time. Sometime our staff may have to deal with an emergency and if this happens, we will let you know. We appreciate your understanding. In such situations, you will only pay a fee from the time the interview starts.
Is there an additional cost for materials?
If materials are a part of the counselling or group work you are doing, you will be told in advance whether there is an additional fee.
When do I pay my fees?
You will pay your fee at the end of your first appointment with us. At each subsequent appointment, please pay your fee before your appointment.
What payment options are available?
If you come to one of our offices, Family Service Toronto accepts cash, debit, Visa, MasterCard. For Virtual services: FST accepts Interac e-transfer, Funds are set up for auto-deposit if payment is sent to [email protected]. For credit card payment via phone call 416-595-9618 and press 2 to speak with one of our staff to process your payment. Monday through Friday 9:30-4:30pm
Do you accept insurance plans or employer-sponsored plans, such as Employee Assistance Plans?
Yes, we accept these plans; however, it is your responsibility to clarify what your plan covers. Some plans are very specific about who can deliver your service (for example, a registered social worker). If you have such a plan, please review this with your benefits provider before you start service and tell us. We will do our best to match you to the required professional but we cannot guarantee we will be able to do so.
Services provided under private plans are billed at $150 per hour for counselling appointments and $105 for group programs. If you use your total plan coverage in a given year before you finish your service with us, we will re-assess your fee based on our sliding scale.
Are my fees tax deductible?
Under the Income Tax Act, if service is provided to you by a Registered Social Worker this is considered a medical expense by Revenue Canada. If you plan to use your receipts for tax purposes, check with the staff person you are working with to determine if they are Registered Social Worker or license psychologist. Keep all receipts for tax purposes to support your claim. More information is available through the Canada Revenue Agency.
How can FST help me?
Sometimes the challenges we face in our daily lives become too difficult to manage alone. We may need someone to talk to who can help us find solutions. Family Service Toronto (FST) is a non-profit, social service agency which offers a variety of counselling programs; one-to-one, with couples and families, or in groups to help people cope with the challenges of:
Is FST open to anyone?
FST is strongly committed to anti-discrimination practices for all our clients, volunteers and employees. Our services are available to everyone living or working in Toronto, regardless of their age, cultural background, race or sexual orientation. In order to serve Toronto’s large and diverse population, we offer service in numerous languages and many of our offices are wheelchair accessible.
What can I expect from my counselling?
At FST, we offer an encouraging and supportive environment. Our skilled professional counsellors will help you explore and understand your problem, and help you develop solutions.
How can I get the most out of my counselling?
Counselling can be a very rewarding experience, but it takes hard work and dedication. That’s why it is important to attend all your scheduled sessions and be open to new ways of looking at yourself. It is also important to be an active participant and to tell us what you find helpful or unhelpful throughout the counselling process.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
If you can’t attend a scheduled appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours before your session. This way we can offer your time to another client.
If you don’t give us at least 24 hours advance notice, you will be required to pay for the session in programs that charge fees, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
What if I want a different counsellor?
We understand how important it is for you to feel comfortable with your counsellor and this can take time. That’s why we encourage you to get to know your counsellor before deciding whether their style is right for you. If you still think you will have difficulty working together, you can ask to speak with your counsellor’s manager. Together we’ll find a solution.
Is my information/counselling confidential?
All your personal data and anything discussed between you and your counsellor is private and confidential within FST. To get advice on how to be most helpful to you, your counsellor may consult with the service team, colleagues within FST, supervisor or program consultant. We will not provide other individuals with your information without your written consent.
There are some special circumstances where we may release information regarding your counselling:
For more information please read our Privacy Statement
Where are you located?
We provide services at several locations within Toronto area. However, none of these locations offers all FST services. When you call our centralized Service Access Unit (416-595-9618) our staff will help you get the service you need at the best location available. Our main locations are:
Is parking available?
Free parking is available at most of our locations.
Can I bring my children with me for my counselling appointment?
Unless they are part of the session or group work, you can not bring your children with you. However, if they do not require supervision, they can wait for you in the general waiting room.
What type of counselling do you offer?
We offer practical solutions, short-term counselling to individuals and families going through various difficult situations. We are not a drop-in or crisis service. To learn more about our counselling service, read about our Counselling Services.
What are the qualifications of FST counsellors?
FST counsellors are experienced social workers or psychotherapists. They have post-graduate education at the Master’s or Doctoral level.
Can I see my record?
At any time you may request to see a copy of our client record for you by writing a note to Family Service Toronto. Please provide your name, birth date, phone number and address. We will call you to set up an appointment for you to review your personal information. To ensure confidentiality, you must view the information on the premises. However, you can request that information about yourself be released to specific people such as your doctor or another agency. We will need you to sign a consent form before we release this information.
What if I want to correct information in my record?
For your protection, once your record is written, we at FST cannot change it. However, if you find statements that are not factually accurate or opinions you disagree with, you can add corrected information to the record. You can do this after reviewing your file. You will need to send us your corrections. Please sign and date your information. Once you’ve submitted your corrected information, it will go on the record and we will notify you of our response to your corrections within three weeks.
What if I have a complaint?
We want to know what you think of our service. All our staff welcome your comments and we encourage you to speak with your counsellor directly about any concerns you may have about our service.
For any questions, concerns or complaints about how your personal information has been collected or used please contact FST’s Privacy Officer by email at [email protected] or call 416-595-9230 ext. 316. You can also make a complaint to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario by calling 416-326-3333.
Do I have to pay a fee for service?
Family Service Toronto strives to provide high quality, accessible services. For this reason, services are provided based on a sliding fee scale in programs that are not supported by outside revenues or where we are required, through funding contracts, to charge for services.
What is the fee for service?
Fees are charged on a sliding scale, based on income and family size, to ensure that persons with all income levels can access our programs.
Fees for individual counselling services range from $10 to $150 per hour.
When and how will my fee be calculated?
When you first contact us, we will ask you for information about your total household income before tax and how many people live in the household. It is a good idea to have a income tax notice of assessment or other information related to your income available to you when you call. At the time of this call, or when you are contacted for your first appointment, we will provide you with an estimate of the fee you will be expected to pay. The staff person you meet with will review this and set the actual fee with you. You will be asked to sign a fee contract at this time and pay this fee at the end of your first interview.
What if I can’t pay the fee you have calculated?
No one is denied service because of an inability to pay. Talk to the FST staff person you will be working with and they will determine how much we will ask you to pay. We may ask you to provide us with proof of expenses if your fee is going to be reduced.
What happens if I don’t want to pay a fee for service?
If your income permits you to pay a fee, it is expected that you will do so. If you choose not to pay, we will not be able to provide service.
What happens if my income changes?
Income can go up or down. If this happens to you, please talk to the staff person you are working with so they can work to determine if we can make an adjustment to your fee. We may need you to provide us with proof of expenses if this occurs.
What is the minimum amount of time a fee is charged for?
The minimum fee charged for counselling services is for one hour. Your counselling appointment will be for 50 minutes and the staff person will use the remaining 10 minutes to make notes on your work together. Fees for groups are based on a group rate.
Will I be charged extra fees for extra time?
Yes. If your counselling appointment continues beyond the hour, you will be charged based on the quarter hour. For example, if your appointment goes for 1 hour and 10 minutes, you will be charged for 1.25 hours.
Will I be charged for services provided over the phone or electronically?
There is normally no charge for brief telephone calls to set up or confirm appointments or to provide brief information. If you and your staff person decide to set up a telephone or e-counselling interview your counselling fee will apply.
Will I be charged a fee if I don’t come to my appointment or I am late?
If you do not provide 24 hours notice of an appointment you cannot make, you will be charged for the missed appointment. If you are late for an appointment, your fee will be charged based from the time your appointment was set. We are not able to extend appointments if you are late.
To notify us that you need to cancel an appointment, please call the staff person you are working with and leave a message. We make every effort to start appointments on time. Sometime our staff may have to deal with an emergency and if this happens, we will let you know. We appreciate your understanding. In such situations, you will only pay a fee from the time the interview starts.
Is there an additional cost for materials?
If materials are a part of the counselling or group work you are doing, you will be told in advance whether there is an additional fee.
When do I pay my fees?
You will pay your fee at the end of your first appointment with us. At each subsequent appointment, please pay your fee before your appointment.
What payment options are available?
If you come to one of our offices, Family Service Toronto accepts cash, debit, Visa, MasterCard. For Virtual services: FST accepts Interac e-transfer, Funds are set up for auto-deposit if payment is sent to [email protected]. For credit card payment via phone call 416-595-9618 and press 2 to speak with one of our staff to process your payment. Monday through Friday 9:30-4:30pm
Do you accept insurance plans or employer-sponsored plans, such as Employee Assistance Plans?
Yes, we accept these plans; however, it is your responsibility to clarify what your plan covers. Some plans are very specific about who can deliver your service (for example, a registered social worker). If you have such a plan, please review this with your benefits provider before you start service and tell us. We will do our best to match you to the required professional but we cannot guarantee we will be able to do so.
Services provided under private plans are billed at $150 per hour for counselling appointments and $105 for group programs. If you use your total plan coverage in a given year before you finish your service with us, we will re-assess your fee based on our sliding scale.
Are my fees tax deductible?
Under the Income Tax Act, if service is provided to you by a Registered Social Worker this is considered a medical expense by Revenue Canada. If you plan to use your receipts for tax purposes, check with the staff person you are working with to determine if they are Registered Social Worker or license psychologist. Keep all receipts for tax purposes to support your claim. More information is available through the Canada Revenue Agency.
At the heart of our work within each program at FST is a vision of a city where people are resilient and thriving in more just and supportive communities. Every volunteer plays a meaningful role in helping us move closer to that future.
Whether you are passionate about mental health, community well-being or social justice, your skills and/or lived experience are valued here.
Your time can help individuals or families access resources, feel seen, and take next steps towards their goals.
Gain experience in trauma-informed approaches, learn about community-based work, and develop meaningful connections.
Join a team that celebrates diversity, centres lived experience and strives to make lasting systemic change.
Whether it’s a few hours a week or a few hours a month, volunteers support our work in many ways, including:
We will work with you to a find a role that matches your interests, unique strengths and talent and availability.
Our work is grounded in compassion, inclusion and respect. As a volunteer you will receive:
In order to register for the Options Children program, a parent/caregiver/individual supporting the child can call the Intake line directly at 416. 971.6326 ext. 317 or email [email protected] with the child’s confirmation of diagnosis.
In collaboration with our partner agency Surrey Place:
At Family Service Toronto, Options Children works alongside Surrey Place to provide a person-centered approach to Coordinated Service Planning.
For more information go to Surrey Place Coordinated Service Planning:
Phone: 1-833-575-KIDS (5437)
Online Inquiries: https://www.surreyplace.ca/registration/
At Family Service Toronto, Options Children works alongside Surrey Place to provide rapid, time-limited support for children with Autism to address a specific, identified, urgent need. Through a collaboration with other services, FST Children Community Resource Facilitators provide service coordination with the development of service plans, overseeing the client’s clinical team, and providing service navigation to other services within or outside of the Ontario Autism Program.
For more information go to Surrey Place Urgent Response Service:
Phone: 1-833-575-KIDS (5437)
Online Inquiries: https://www.surreyplace.ca/registration/
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We are community focused and community driven. Download brochure.
We offer a variety of parenting and children’s programs including drop-ins, early literacy, school readiness programs, and much more. See below for a list of programs offered.
519 Church Street
Toronto, ON M4Y 2C9
Phone: 416-392-6874
Fax: 416-392-0519
Website: www.the519.org
Catchment area: Bloor Street to the North, Gerrard Street to the South; Parliament Street to the East and Bay Street to the West
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 8:30 am to 9:00 pm
Sat-Sun | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
1900 Davenport Road
Toronto, ON M6N 1B7
Phone: 416-656-8025
Fax: 416-656-1264
Website: http://dpnchc.com/
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun | closed
Catchment area: C N and CPR railway tracks to the West, Lavender Rd, Rogers Rd, Rosecliffe Av and St Clair Av W to the North, Bathurst Avenue to the East and Bloor Street to the South.
51 Wyatt Avenue
Toronto, ON M5A 1Y7
Phone: 416-863-0499
Fax: 416-863-9981
Website: www.dixonhall.org
Catchment area: Ontario Lake to the South, Broadview Avenue to the East, Sherbourne Street to the West and Gerrard St. to the North
Hours of operation:
Mon-Thurs | 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Fri | 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
355 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5B 0B2
Phone: 416-595-9230
Fax: 416-595-0242
Website: www.familyservicetoronto.org
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
23 Grange Road
Toronto, ON M5T 1C3
Phone: 416-598-3444
Fax: 416-598-4401
Website: http://www.universitysettlement.ca/
Catchment area: College Street to the North, Yonge St. to the East, Front St. to the South and Spadina Avenue to the West.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Sat-Sun | 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
627 Queen’s Quay West
Toronto, ON M5V 3G3
Phone: 416-392-1509
Fax: 416-392-1512
Website: http://waterfrontnc.ca/
Catchment area: Strachan Avenue to the West, Yonge Street to the East, Front Street to the North, Lake Ontario to the South.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:30 am to 9:30 pm
Sat-Sun | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
248 Ossington Avenue
Toronto, ON M6J 3A2
Phone: 416-532-4828
Fax: 416-532-8739
Website: http://www.westnh.org/
Catchment area: Bloor Street to the North, Lake Ontario to the South; Bathurst Street to the East, Roncesvalles Avenue to the West.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
251 Cosburn Avenue
East York, ON M4J M2M
Phone: 416-469-5211
Fax: 416-463-6528
Website: www.woodgreen.org
Catchment area: Jarvis St. and Broadview Avenue to the West, Victoria Park Avenue to the East, Overlea Blvd and O’Connor Drive to the North and Lake Shore Blvd East to the South.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Age-appropriate developmental programming is provided for children aged 4-10 years.
Children engage in a variety of recreational, fun and skill building activities.
Family Service Toronto provides leadership and coordination for Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty in Canada and Ontario Campaign 2000.
Campaign 2000 is a cross-Canada public education movement to build Canadian awareness and support for the 1989 all-party House of Commons resolution to end child poverty in Canada by the year 2000. Campaign 2000 began in 1991 out of concern about the lack of government progress in addressing child poverty.
Campaign 2000 is non-partisan in urging all Canadian elected officials to keep their promise to Canada’s children. Our coalition of 120 partners are committed to addressing the issue of child and family poverty and believe that the federal government has a responsibility to honour the all-party resolution to end child poverty.
Le: Read our annual national and territorial and provincial Child and Family Poverty reports, and Learn more about our work on Campaign 2000 website.
Ontario Campaign 2000 works to increase public awareness of the levels and consequences of child/family poverty by publishing research on the indicators of child poverty and developing public education resources.
Ontario Campaign 2000 was established in 1997 and in November of that year, the first Ontario Report Card on Child Poverty was released, receiving wide media and public attention. Since then, Ontario Campaign 2000 has published numerous Report Cards on Child and Family Poverty in Ontario, with discussion papers being released from time to time.
Read our annual Child and Family Poverty in Ontario report and learn more about our work on Ontario C2000 website.
FST-Counselling program offers the following services:
Counselling Services can help you with:
At Family Service Toronto We offer single session consultations and time limited on-going counselling. For workshops and groups, please go to Workshops, Groups and Events page.
By talking about your experience in a safe and accepting environment we can help you with the following:
Counselling services provided on an individual basis are goal-directed and time limited. You and your counsellor will work together to define a plan of service and will regularly check in on progress.
Groups are offered on a variety of topics. For more information on these services contact at 416-595-9618
As Pride Month arrives, we honour the powerful legacy of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals who have long stood at the forefront of justice, resilience, and community care. At Family Service Toronto, we believe that true community care begins with equity, inclusion, and the celebration of every identity – and that commitment is more critical than ever in today’s climate.
In 2025, 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are under growing threat – not only abroad but here in Canada. We are seeing rising incidents of hate, well-funded campaigns targeting trans and queer communities, and regressive efforts to limit inclusive education, especially in schools. Anti-trans protests and disinformation have created increasingly hostile environments, particularly for young people. Against this backdrop, Pride is not just a celebration – it’s a necessary act of resistance.
This Pride Month, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to uplifting 2SLGBTQIA+ voices – not just in June, but every single day. We recognize that Pride was born from protest, from courageous acts of defiance led by trans women of colour and other queer pioneers. That spirit of collective resistance remains vital as we push for dignity, safety, and liberation for all 2SLGBTQIA+ people across Canada. We also shine light on the common humanity – the collective human longing for love, acceptance, and the freedom to be ourselves. These universal desires unite us and drive us to stand against discrimination and injustice.
At Family Service Toronto, we are actively centering the needs of the queer community in the following ways:
We also ask our broader community to reflect on these guiding values:
Let Pride be more than a moment. Let it be a sustained movement—a promise we carry forward through acts of compassion, bold allyship, and enduring commitment to justice. Together, let’s serve, uplift, and celebrate—loudly, proudly, and with purpose.
Join us Wednesday, June 11th from 3 to 6 p.m. at 353 Church Street for our Community Pride: Craft Lounge Event co-hosted with Hard Feelings. Drop by for an afternoon of creativity, including button-making, friendship bracelets, card writing, and collaging. Let’s come together as a community and as allies to honor our unique identities and collective strength. Snacks and art supplies provided. This is a free and accessible drop-in event — no registration required.
Learn more here: Community Pride Craft Lounge
For more than twenty- five years, Family Service Toronto’s (FST) Seniors and Caregivers Support Services (SCSS) has been working with seniors who are experiencing abuse in their later years. Through a combination of counselling supports, group work and educational sessions, the team has touched the lives of thousands of clients. Working with seniors to help them stay safe in their living situations, dealing with the inherent anxiety, depression and trauma that abuse generates in those experiencing it and working with clients to live free of abuse has been at the core of the work. In 2008, FST opened Pat’s Place, a safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. Situated in a confidential location in Toronto, Pat’s Place is a one-bedroom apartment, rented by FST, and provided free of charge to qualifying individuals for up to 60 days.
This report provides a summary of how Pat’s Place operates, an analysis of who has accessed the program from 2008-2018 and an evaluation framework that was created to aid in the potential expansion of this concept.
Depuis plus de vingt-cinq ans, le personnel des services de soutien aux personnes âgées et soignants de Family Service Toronto travaille avec les personnes âgées qui sont victimes de maltraitance. Grâce à un ensemble de services de counseling, de séances de groupes et des séances éducatives, l’équipe a réussi à toucher la vie de plusieurs clients et clientes. Les services fournis aux personnes âgées sont pour les aidées à garder des conditions de vie sécuritaires, pour les aidées à faire face à l’anxiété, la dépression et les traumatismes inhérents aux victimes de maltraitance, ainsi que pour les aidées à vivre une vie sans violence, se trouvent au cœur du travail du personnel FST. En 2008, FST a ouvert Pat’s Place, un refuge pour les personnes âgées maltraitées. Situé dans un endroit confidentiel à Toronto, Pat’s Place est un appartement d’une chambre qui est loué par FST. L’appartement est fourni gratuitement aux personnes éligibles pour un maximum de 60 jours.
Ce rapport fournit un résumé du fonctionnement de Pat’s Place, ce qui est une analyse des personnes qui ont accédées au programme de 2008 à 2018 et un cadre d’évaluation qui a été créé pour aider à l’expansion potentielle de ce concept.
We invite you to be part of our empowering #Iwantyoutoknow #16days16statements social media campaign by sharing one sentence that you as a survivor would like to tell other women survivors of violence. Your message will be featured on our social media handles, and we assure you that your privacy and confidentiality are respected.
Fill in the blank to help start your message: I Want you to Know ___________________________
Your voice can make a difference and provide solace to those who may feel alone in their struggles. Deadline to send in your messages is November 7, 2023 .
Thank you for being part of our community and for your unwavering strength.
"*" indicates required fields
If you are an adult living with an intellectual disability, you may feel isolated and alone. You may be looking for housing, a job or ways to participate in your community, but aren’t sure who to talk to, or even where to begin. Similarly, if you are the parent of a child or teenager with an intellectual disability, you may be in need of information, resources and support for yourself and your family.
Family Service Toronto offers several Developmental Disabilities Services (see below) as well as the opportunity to participate in the Accessibility Advisory Group to make recommendations on accessibility and help improve access to our services.
FST-VAW Early Warning Signs quiz is a simple way for girls and women of all ages and abilities to determine if they are in an unhealthy or dangerous relationship. The content of the questions were informed by women who were in abusive relationship and what they said they experienced with their partners. You can also download/print the Early Warning Signs brochure.
Family Service Toronto also has Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
The David Kelley HIV/AIDS Counselling Program provides professional counselling and support services to people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Our services include goal-focused short to medium-term professional counselling to individuals, couples and families on issues such as loss, relationships, self-esteem, planning for healthy living, changing health status, and self-care.
We offer support groups as needed; referrals to other support services (financial, housing, treatment information, home care, etc.); advocacy on behalf of our clients.
For appointments, please contact the Service Access Unit at: 416.595.9618; [email protected]
The David Kelley Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer (LGBTQ+) Counselling Program provides professional, short-term, individual, couple and family counselling to people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or queer.
Our counselling helps people who are facing a broad range of issues such as coming out, sexual orientation and gender identity, isolation, discrimination, relationship issues, parenting, transitioning, self-esteem and violence. We recognize the diversity that exists within the community of people who identify as LGBTQ+. While everyone who identifies as LGBTQ+ experiences discrimination based on sexual orientation, many LGBTQ+ individuals face other forms of discrimination as well; sometimes from within the community itself. This is particular true for trans and two spirited people. Our programs/services reflect awareness that additional factors such as race, class, age and ability influence the way that individuals experience their sexual orientation and gender identity.
David Kelley Services program offers 2STNB+ Connect – a virtual peer support group which welcomes youth (age 16-29) across the gender identity spectrum to meet and connect with others in their community, explore their identities, and create meaningful relationships. The group provides a friendly and non-judgemental space for 2STNB+ youth at all different stages on their gender journey to socialize and discuss a wide range of issues; from social and medical transition, to family, to school, as well as to share interests.
Groups are ongoing on a bi-weekly basis. For group information and registration go to Family Service Toronto Workshops, Groups and Events page.
The David Kelley program also provides Partner Assault Response (PAR) services for court- and probation-mandated individuals charged with assault to a same-sex partner. This service has been adapted to address the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ communities. It is offered in collaboration with Family Service Toronto’s Next Steps / Partner Abuse Response Program. Service is arranged through referral to Service Access Unit by probation or by the courts through the Woman Abuse Council of Toronto.
David Kelley offers counselling for male survivors of sexual abuse (age 16+) who seek support to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago.
Community Resource Facilitators collaborate with individuals, families and caregivers to reach their desired goals. This is accomplished through service coordination, community connections, circles of support and advocacy. Our approach is to break down barriers and find ways to facilitate interconnected lives within family groups and communities. This service can only be accessed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).
Community Networking is a process that challenges and invites ordinary places to be more inclusive. Community Network Facilitators work with individuals, families, small groups and community organizations to explore and build connections with community places and people. Our work supports individuals to explore their interests and enhance their community involvement. This service is only available if you are already an Options client.
Family Service Toronto (FST), with support from York University, is running a small feasibility study looking at providing counselling and peer support to women labelled with intellectual/developmental disabilities (ID/DD). The study is funded by the Women’s Xchange at Women’s College Hospital.
Our research team includes staff from FST, community partners and Marcia Rioux, PhD, Director of the York Institute of Health Research. Our study has been approved by the York’s Ethics Review Board.
We are recruiting 10 women who:
The study participants will receive free counselling and peer support. There is no financial compensation for those receiving counselling.
All women who are referred as study participants but choose not to participate will still be offered free counselling but not peer support.
For referrals, please contact Vania at Family Service Toronto at 416-586-9780 ext 446 or [email protected].
If you have any questions about this study prior to considering a referral, please contact Dr. Maria Huijbregts, Research Lead and Director of Knowledge Building at FST, at 416-595-4032 or [email protected].
See related story, Sexual Assault – A New Focus on the Most Vulnerable, in 2016 Annual Report.
This fall, FST will be offering a peer mentor training program. Over a few training sessions in September, participants will develop leadership and peer mentoring skills and make connections with other labelled women.
Once they’ve completed the training, they may have the opportunity to participate as peer mentors in an FST peer mentoring program that is being developed for women with labels who have been sexually abused.
We are recruting up to 10 women who:
TTC transportation costs will be covered and on-site child care can be offered.
If interested, contact Vania Sukola at Family Service Toronto at 416-586-9780 ext 446 or at [email protected].
Person-directed planning helps a person with a developmental disability find the tools they need to live their dreams and to achieve their potential.
It can help people with developmental disabilities to:
In the Toronto Region, seven agencies funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) have been working collaboratively to provide support in the development and implementation of person-directed plans since 2009. COMPASS works together to ensure the values and principles of PDP are upheld, to increase planning capacity in the community, and to promote ongoing innovation and creativity.
The seven agencies are:
1 Mission
4 Websites
9 Walk-in counselling sessions weekly *
13 Service locations
22 Languages of service
26 Community programs
67 Average service calls daily **
103 Years of operation
108 Generous donors and funders
140 Dedicated volunteers, trainees and students
168 Skilled and talented staff
28,717 People served through FST programs
60,838 Hours of service provided
85,895 Service contacts with clients registered in counselling programs
114,907 Visits to FST’s main website
* Provided through free Wednesday Walk-In counselling program
** Calls to FST’s Service Access Unit
Our team of Passport Coordinators is here to provide you with ongoing information and support. We provide support to develop a plan and budget for your Passport funding, help link you to services in your community, and will follow up with you about program forms.
Your Coordinator is here for:
For more information about the passport program, the Passport Program guidelines, Passport documents, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit https://passportfunding.ca/.
FST’s Board of Directors is a diverse group of professionals who serve voluntarily and live or work in the GTA. New Board members are elected annually at FST’s Annual General Meeting.
The Board of Directors is accountable to internal and external stakeholders and its primary responsibilities include:
All Board activities are governed by FST’s by-laws and governance policies. FST is accredited by the Council on Accreditation and is compliant with standards of best practice in governance.
The Transitional and Housing Support Program (THSP) is for women-identified individuals who seek support after experiencing abuse by their partners or significant others (including caregiver or other immediate family/household member) or survivors of human trafficking, aged 18 years or older. Interpreter services are available for the program.
THSP provides a continuum of supports and services to women-identified individuals and their dependents to:
THSP will:
Services and supports you can receive in the THSP program include:
Call FST’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or e-mail [email protected].
Family Service Toronto administers PassportONE for all Passport recipients across the province. As PassportONE, we review Passport claims and reimburse admissible expenses in accordance with the Passport guidelines.
Your local Passport agency will continue to be your point of contact for the Passport program, including questions regarding your Passport claims.
Passport recipients who self administer their funding have two electronic options to submit claims that make the process simple and easy to manage. You can find out more about these two options on Filing Claims page on Passport Funding website.
You can continue to submit claims by fax or email, if you need new Purchase of Service (POS) forms, please contact your local Passport agency.
For more information about the Passport program, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit Passport Funding site.
Family Service Toronto provides leadership and coordination for Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty in Canada and Ontario Campaign 2000.
Campaign 2000 is a cross-Canada public education movement to build Canadian awareness and support for the 1989 all-party House of Commons resolution to end child poverty in Canada by the year 2000. Campaign 2000 began in 1991 out of concern about the lack of government progress in addressing child poverty.
Campaign 2000 is non-partisan in urging all Canadian elected officials to keep their promise to Canada’s children. Our coalition of 120 partners are committed to addressing the issue of child and family poverty and believe that the federal government has a responsibility to honour the all-party resolution to end child poverty.
Le: Read our annual national and territorial and provincial Child and Family Poverty reports, and Learn more about our work on Campaign 2000 website.
Ontario Campaign 2000 works to increase public awareness of the levels and consequences of child/family poverty by publishing research on the indicators of child poverty and developing public education resources.
Ontario Campaign 2000 was established in 1997 and in November of that year, the first Ontario Report Card on Child Poverty was released, receiving wide media and public attention. Since then, Ontario Campaign 2000 has published numerous Report Cards on Child and Family Poverty in Ontario, with discussion papers being released from time to time.
Read our annual Child and Family Poverty in Ontario report and learn more about our work on Ontario C2000 website.
Seniors Community Connections (previously known as Illahee Community Connections) is a program for seniors’ groups within five cultural and linguistic communities: Iranian, Afghan, Somali and Spanish-speaking. Seniors from these communities meet in several locations in Toronto, and Family Service provides:
For more information please call:
The Latino Hispanic Community Engagement Program bring to you pertinent, relevant, and accurate information necessary in the reality of Toronto, Ontario and Canada.
For more information call Rodrigo Briones, Latino Hispanic Community Facilitator, at 416-755-5565 ext. 438 to participate in the virtual groups.
Healthy Families, Healthy Communities (HFHC) is a program for newcomer families supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The program supports newcomers to recognize and address abuse and violence within their family and community. Newcomers have the opportunity to participate in initiatives that prevent family and community violence and create space for sharing and learning about life in Canada.
Canadians and long-standing immigrants from the the Iranian, Afghan, Somali, Arabic and Nigerian communities are trained to become peer leaders and community facilitators. Peer leaders and facilitators create a welcoming environment within their communities for newcomer parents, women, seniors and youth and help them understand how to integrate their cultural practices, behaviours and expectations into a Canadian context.
HFHC program provides workshops and peer-support groups which offer newcomers the opportunity to connect with people who speak their language and understand their culture, support each other, identify issues they feel are of concern, share stories, practise speaking English, discuss strategies for solving problems and reflect on their experience.
Community facilitators lead workshops for parents on a variety of topics including:
Community facilitators and peer leaders also lead workshops for youth on a variety of topics including:
Peer support groups take place in a youth-friendly and culturally-appropriate space, which may be in an agency, a community centre or within a high school.
When appropriate, there are separate female and male peer support groups. The groups are led by trained young adult, peer leaders who understand the culture and speak the language of the participants. They facilitate the group and provide support and resources.
The peer leaders have received intensive training and education in anti-violence work, human rights and Canadian law, conflict mediation and stress management. They all work within an anti-racist, anti-oppression framework. Conversation circles led by a peer leader are used to facilitate discussions and sharing in the support groups.
For more information about the Healthy Families Healthy Communities project, please contact Roberto Abeabe, Manager Community Engagement 416-755-5565 ext 422
Abuse and abuse prevention for:
Counselling for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse available through various programs of FST, primarily Counselling Service Program and David Kelly LGBTQ/HIV AIDS Program
There are thousands of male survivors living in communities across Ontario. There is approximately one in six men who have experienced sexual abuse at some time in their lives. They come from every community, background and lifestyle. Men and boys who are victimized have needs that specially trained counsellors understand, and they can help. Don’t suffer in silence when help is only a phone call away. Services for male survivors of sexual abuse can help you to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago. You will learn that you are not alone, you will meet people you can trust to help you understand your problems. You will get the help you need to deal with the impact of the abuse. You will learn how to improve relationships with friends and family.*
To be eligible for service, a male survivor must:
The family of a male survivor may also be eligible for service. Please contact our Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618 to discuss your situation.
Confidential counselling services are provided free of charge up to 8 sessions. Should there be a need for further service this will be discussed with your counsellor and a sliding scale fee assessed for fee paying programs. FST is committed to charging fair and equitable fees based on before tax income and family size.
* Excerpts from pamphlet for 24/7 Information and Referral Services, a toll free phone line for immediate crisis and referral services from anywhere in Ontario at 1-866-887-0015
Informations sur le programme en français
The Partner Assault Response (PAR) program is a Domestic Violence Court initiative that delivers a specialized community-based group education/counselling program to offenders who have been mandated by the court to attend the PAR program in response to a criminal charge involving domestic violence.
At Family Service Toronto (FST), we call this program the Next Steps program.
This program, funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General’s Ontario Victim Services, is a court-ordered sanction that provides offenders with an opportunity to:
The primary objectives of the PAR program are to:
Work in the program is oriented to providing:
We currently offer five English and one Tamil open-ended groups. Open-ended groups can be joined at any time as long as the participant attends 12 weeks from the moment of registration.
We currently operate six English language groups online on Tuesday and Thursday nights, from 6:30-8:30 and three groups on Saturday mornings, two from 10-12 and one from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
One English language group is offered on site at our downtown Toronto location on Wednesday mornings from 10:00-12:00.
Tamil language groups are offered two to three times a year, on line, on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
A group for male-identified members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community is offered on Mondays from 4:00-6:00. This group runs two to three times a year.
All of our groups are closed groups, meaning that all participants start and end at the same time.
We stagger the start times of each group, to be able to accommodate referrals on as timely a basis as possible.
We also offer services in French on an individual basis.
There is an intake/assessment session and 12 sessions after that. All participants are required to complete all sessions.
Yes, you are required to pay for this program based on a sliding scale. We will ask you about your individual income to determine your fee. If a request is made to change the fee, we reserve the right to request proof of income or at any other time.
As a condition of your court order, you must pay the total assessed fee. You will sign an agreement specific to the program about this and you will also sign a fee contract with Family Service Toronto.
Yes, there are several grounds upon which a person can be discharged from the program. They include:
There are nine mandatory topics that are covered, including:
1. Domestic Violence – Defining Abuse
2. How Beliefs and Attitudes Affect Behaviour
3. The Effects of Abuse on Children, Partners and Self
4. Understanding Triggers / Warning Signs
5. The Impact of Substance Abuse
6. Healthy Relationships
7. Respectful Communication
8. Dealing with Conflict
9. Responsibility and Accountability
The group leaders will complete a closing report which is sent to the Courts or your probation officer. They will review this report and determine if you have fulfilled the conditions of your court order.
Pour des informations en fran§ais
Partner Contact Program is designed to support the partners of the Next Steps/Partner Assault Response Program participants.
If your partner or ex-partner is participating in Family Service Toronto’s Next Steps/Partner Assault Response (PAR) Program, our Partner Contact staff will contact you by phone to talk with you about the program. If we can’t reach you by phone, we will send you a letter if we have your address.
The purpose of this program is to:
You will be contacted by a staff person from our Partner Contact team who has a good understanding of domestic violence and does not work in our PAR program.
It is your decision whether you wish to speak to a partner contact worker or not. We take our direction from you.
The person who contacts you will provide you with information about your partner/ex-partner’s participation in group, such as:
The discussions you have with partner contact staff are confidential except in specific situations which it is important you are aware of. We are required to disclose information you provide us to the Crown and/or probation officers in the following circumstances:
In addition, If you tell us a child under the age of 16 has been or is being abused or neglected or we suspect this based on what you tell us, we are required by law to report this to a Children’s Aid Society
You should know that any information that we are required to provide to the Crown, may have to be provided to your partner/ex-partner and their lawyer if the case is still before the court.
If safety concerns are identified by our staff, they will be taken into consideration in the Program Completion Report that is sent to the Court.
Yes, staff keep notes on each contact they make with you or when an attempt to contact you has been made. These notes are kept separate from your partner/ex-partners notes and only you can access them.
For a list of resources in the community and safety tips, please visit our Violence Against Women resource list
For emergency resources see FST resources page
Learn about Family Service Toronto’s Partner Assault Response program
As a victim of a crime, you have rights in Ontario. Ontario’s Victims’ Bill of Rights establishes a set of principles to support victims of crime throughout the justice process. It requires that victims be treated with:
Learn more about the principles that apply to the treatment of victims of crime.
Ontario’s Victims’ Bill of Rights also specifies that victims should have information about all the following:
Here is the link for details on the Victim’s Bill of Rights
The federal government also has a Bill of Rights for Victims of Crime. You can learn more about it at https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-23.7/page-1.html or you can read this fact sheet
Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Family Service Toronto Counselling Services offers individual, family and couple counselling.
Counselling may be able to help you. Counselling helps people (from all walks of life) explore options, find solutions, develop coping strategies, identify strengths, locate information, provide resources and promote healing, resiliency and self-empowerment.
Our counsellors are trauma-informed and culturally sensitive and utilize a variety of approaches and tools to support people in their mental health journey.
The length of service and frequency of sessions may vary; however, we offer time limited counselling sessions. You will work with your counsellor to develop goals and a timeline for accomplishing those goals.
To book an appointment call our service access line at: 416-595-9618
Fees are charged on a sliding scale based on household income and your family size. Fees are designed to be accessible for all income ranges for anyone living or working in the city of Toronto. Family Service Toronto is a non-profit social service agency and fees are required to supplement the funding that we receive for this service.
Staff can provide service in English, French, Farsi, Hindi, Portuguese, Spanish and Urdu. Occasionally we may provide service in other languages. When you call for an appointment, please let us know about your language requirements at intake.
FST-Counselling program offers the following services:
Counselling Services can help you with:
At Family Service Toronto We offer single session consultations and time limited on-going counselling. For workshops and groups, please go to Workshops, Groups and Events page.
By talking about your experience in a safe and accepting environment we can help you with the following:
Counselling services provided on an individual basis are goal-directed and time limited. You and your counsellor will work together to define a plan of service and will regularly check in on progress.
Groups are offered on a variety of topics. For more information on these services contact at 416-595-9618
Children who have not yet been diagnosed are not eligible for service at Options. If you would like to learn more about receiving a diagnosis, you can contact the Options intake worker who will provide you with some ideas about how/where to get an assessment for your child.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As a client of the Options Children program, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services).
You can only receive case management/service navigation services from one agency.
Options is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, so there are no fees to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options Children program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website.
If you are currently a client of the Options Children program and are interested in volunteering, please speak with your worker.
Growing Up Healthy Downtown (GUHD) is a partnership of eight multi-service community agencies. We deliver programs and services that focus on improving the health and well-being of young children, as well as offering support and new skills to their parents and or caregivers.
Guiding Principles:
If you’re looking for a place to drop in with your kids for a couple of hours, make some new friends/connections or learn more and get involved in your community, GUHD has something for you. Call Sophia Ali, GUHD Co-ordinator, at 416-595-9230 ext. 330 for more information.
GUHD receives funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada‘s Community Action Program for Children.
We are community focused and community driven. Download brochure.
We offer a variety of parenting and children’s programs including drop-ins, early literacy, school readiness programs, and much more. See below for a list of programs offered.
519 Church Street
Toronto, ON M4Y 2C9
Phone: 416-392-6874
Fax: 416-392-0519
Website: www.the519.org
Catchment area: Bloor Street to the North, Gerrard Street to the South; Parliament Street to the East and Bay Street to the West
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 8:30 am to 9:00 pm
Sat-Sun | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
1900 Davenport Road
Toronto, ON M6N 1B7
Phone: 416-656-8025
Fax: 416-656-1264
Website: http://dpnchc.com/
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun | closed
Catchment area: C N and CPR railway tracks to the West, Lavender Rd, Rogers Rd, Rosecliffe Av and St Clair Av W to the North, Bathurst Avenue to the East and Bloor Street to the South.
51 Wyatt Avenue
Toronto, ON M5A 1Y7
Phone: 416-863-0499
Fax: 416-863-9981
Website: www.dixonhall.org
Catchment area: Ontario Lake to the South, Broadview Avenue to the East, Sherbourne Street to the West and Gerrard St. to the North
Hours of operation:
Mon-Thurs | 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Fri | 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
355 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5B 0B2
Phone: 416-595-9230
Fax: 416-595-0242
Website: www.familyservicetoronto.org
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
23 Grange Road
Toronto, ON M5T 1C3
Phone: 416-598-3444
Fax: 416-598-4401
Website: http://www.universitysettlement.ca/
Catchment area: College Street to the North, Yonge St. to the East, Front St. to the South and Spadina Avenue to the West.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Sat-Sun | 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
627 Queen’s Quay West
Toronto, ON M5V 3G3
Phone: 416-392-1509
Fax: 416-392-1512
Website: http://waterfrontnc.ca/
Catchment area: Strachan Avenue to the West, Yonge Street to the East, Front Street to the North, Lake Ontario to the South.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:30 am to 9:30 pm
Sat-Sun | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
248 Ossington Avenue
Toronto, ON M6J 3A2
Phone: 416-532-4828
Fax: 416-532-8739
Website: http://www.westnh.org/
Catchment area: Bloor Street to the North, Lake Ontario to the South; Bathurst Street to the East, Roncesvalles Avenue to the West.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
251 Cosburn Avenue
East York, ON M4J M2M
Phone: 416-469-5211
Fax: 416-463-6528
Website: www.woodgreen.org
Catchment area: Jarvis St. and Broadview Avenue to the West, Victoria Park Avenue to the East, Overlea Blvd and O’Connor Drive to the North and Lake Shore Blvd East to the South.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Fri | 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Age-appropriate developmental programming is provided for children aged 4-10 years.
Children engage in a variety of recreational, fun and skill building activities.
The Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Development: A free online encyclopedia which covers topics related to the development of children, from conception to the age of five, and presents the most up-to-date scientific knowledge.
Best Start: Supports service providers across the province of Ontario working on health promotion initiatives to enhance the health of expectant and new parents, newborns and young children.
Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health and Environment: Fact sheets and resources re: children’s health and the environment.
Children and Youth with Disabilities -Toronto Central: A database of programs which provide supportive services for children and youth with disabilities.
Child Care Finder: Helps in finding child care in the City
City of Toronto Festivals and Events
City of Toronto Parks, Gardens and Beaches
City Parent: City Parent is a regional parenting publication featuring parenting advice, trends, products and events.
Community Information Toronto: Information on programs and services in Toronto.
Kids Out and About: fantastic opportunities for fun, education, and cultural enrichment in our area
National Alliance for Children and Youth: A nonprofit umbrella organization which brings national organizations together in a collaborative network dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children and youth in Canada
Ontario Coalition for Better Childcare: The Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC) advocates for universally accessible, high quality, not-for-profit, early childhood education and care in the province of Ontario.
Ontario Ministry of Education: Child and family programs including early years centres
Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Services: Health programs and services in Ontario
Parents Canada: Offers a variety of resources for parents.
Zero to Three: a national, nonprofit organization that provides parents, professionals and policymakers the knowledge and know-how to nurture early development.
Call us at 416-595-9230 ext. 330 if you need help in finding specific information, program or service.
The Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Development: A free online encyclopedia which covers topics related to the development of children, from conception to the age of five, and presents the most up-to-date scientific knowledge.
Best Start: Supports service providers across the province of Ontario working on health promotion initiatives to enhance the health of expectant and new parents, newborns and young children.
Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health and Environment: Fact sheets and resources re: children’s health and the environment.
Children and Youth with Disabilities -Toronto Central: A database of programs which provide supportive services for children and youth with disabilities.
Child Care Finder: Helps in finding child care in the City
City of Toronto Festivals and Events
City of Toronto Parks, Gardens and Beaches
City Parent: City Parent is a regional parenting publication featuring parenting advice, trends, products and events.
Community Information Toronto: Information on programs and services in Toronto.
Kids Out and About: fantastic opportunities for fun, education, and cultural enrichment in our area
National Alliance for Children and Youth: A nonprofit umbrella organization which brings national organizations together in a collaborative network dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children and youth in Canada
Ontario Coalition for Better Childcare: The Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC) advocates for universally accessible, high quality, not-for-profit, early childhood education and care in the province of Ontario.
Ontario Ministry of Education: Child and family programs including early years centres
Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Services: Health programs and services in Ontario
Parents Canada: Offers a variety of resources for parents.
Zero to Three: a national, nonprofit organization that provides parents, professionals and policymakers the knowledge and know-how to nurture early development.
Call us at 416-595-9230 ext. 330 if you need help in finding specific information, program or service.
During your childhood, you may have experienced trauma; physical, sexual or emotional abuse; a war; a serious accident, or the death of a parent or other family member. Any of these things can be devastating to a child. But sometimes even years after the actual trauma occurred, many adults still find they are affected by what happened to them as children.
Family Service Toronto offers short-term skills building and short- to medium-term counselling in an individual or group format to those who have had these experiences.
Woman abuse is defined as the intent by a man to intimidate and control his female partner, either by threat or by physical force on her person, her children, her pets or her property. The purpose of abuse is to induce fear and gain control. Underlying all abuse is a power imbalance between offender and victim.
If you are in crisis now, please call one of the following lines:
FST-VAW Early Warning Signs quiz is a simple way for girls and women of all ages and abilities to determine if they are in an unhealthy or dangerous relationship. The content of the questions were informed by women who were in abusive relationship and what they said they experienced with their partners. Read or take the Early Warning Signs quiz, or download/print Early Warning Signs brochure.
To learn more about abuse please read VAW – Issues you may be facing
Person-directed planning helps you think about the life you want and your future.
With the help of a facilitator, it is a process which:
Planning can help direct your life the way you want. Planning can help you figure out how to share your strengths and talents, and how to find new opportunities. It’s good to be clear about what you want to do, how to do it, and the support you need to create the future you want.
Developmental Services Ontario Toronto Region (DSOTR)
Tel: 1-855-DS-ADULT or 1-855-372-3858
Tt y: 416-925-0295
Fax: 416-925-3402
Email: [email protected]
Community Living Toronto
Tel: 647- 426 -3220
Family Service Toronto
Tel: 416-971-6326 ext. 236
Corbrook
Tel: 416-245-5565 ext. 222
To get ready for a plan, think about whom you want to invite and what goals and dreams you want to talk about.
There are many tools planners use. All are flexible based on what you like and how
you communicate. The tools are not just another way to create a service plan, but are a different way of thinking about how to do what you want and reach your goals. Often your planning facilitator will meet with you before your planning meeting to talk about the tools and find what works best for you.
In the beginning you may meet more often, but the number of meetings depends on the progress towards your goals and how often you want to meet. There may also be meetings with just your planning facilitator in addition to meetings with your group.
A network is a group of people who meet regularly to help you to reach your goals or personal vision. Usually friends, family members, co-workers, neighbours, and sometimes service providers are part of a network. Most of the people in a network are not paid; they are there because they care about you and have agreed to work together to support you in making your life better.
Networks can happen at any stage in a person’s life but often form during periods of change or transition, such as starting high school, leaving school, moving out of the family home or looking for work. A planning facilitator can help you to create a network. As you become more involved in your community working on your goals, you may meet people who might become part of your network.
Every donation to Family Service Toronto has a lasting and positive impact. All efforts have been made to ensure that donors who gave between Apr. 1, 2016 and Mar. 31, 2017 are listed correctly. We invite you to contact us with any concerns or questions.
Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation
Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto
Congregation of Notre Dame-Visitation Province
Nan Brown
Canadian Union of Public Employees
Ontario Teachers’ Federation
Randy Heaton
Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
Boiler Inspection & Insurance Co. of Canada
UNIFOR
Ursuline Religious of The Diocese of London Ont.
Vincent Thomson
University of Toronto
Hugh Crosthwait
Anonymous
Jonas Giesen
Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario
Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie
Joseph A. Iannuzzi
Janet Murphy
Norman E. Kraftchuk
Dan Stapleton
Children’s Aid Society of Toronto
Centre De Benevolat De La Peninsule Acadienne
CUPE Local 2316
PACE Consulting
Rony Alexander
Gary Thibert
Donna Schaffer Lero
Eileen Lewis
Elizabeth J. Shields
Grascan Construction
Kathy Glazier
Keri Gammon
Laurel Rothman
Marian Hebb
Pawan Keer
Margo David
Al Pearlstein
Andrew A. Cruikshank
Cheryl Hamilton
Community Development Halton
Deer Park United Church
Dr. Carol Joann Edward
Edward & Grace McFarlane
Helen Saravanamuttoo
Julie Bulmash
Maria Christina Conlon
Mary Ann Schwartz
Mary Lewis
Michael Goldberg
Nancy Barker
Rodney R. Branch
Serge Dignard
Sidney & Victoria Frankel
Tom Engelhart
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre
Blake Koehler
David Lewis Stein
Douglas Gregory
Erna Paris
Jane Martin
Margaret Manning
Marty Gross
Nathan H. Gilbert
North Bay and District Labour Council
Anita Tyler
Melanie Cheskes
Anonymous
Celia Denov
Henry Barkin
Linda Woods
Bernard Gurian
Jill Solnicki
Anonymous (x4)
Paypal Charitable Giving Fund
Ruth Budd
Anonymous
Seniors Community Connections (previously known as Illahee Community Connections) is a program for seniors’ groups within five cultural and linguistic communities: Iranian, Afghan, Somali and Spanish-speaking. Seniors from these communities meet in several locations in Toronto, and Family Service provides:
For more information please call:
The Latino Hispanic Community Engagement Program bring to you pertinent, relevant, and accurate information necessary in the reality of Toronto, Ontario and Canada.
For more information call Rodrigo Briones, Latino Hispanic Community Facilitator, at 416-755-5565 ext. 438 to participate in the virtual groups.
FST Historical Records – City of Toronto Archives
In 2024, Family Service Toronto marked 110 years as one of the city’s oldest and most vital social service organizations.
FST started as the Neighbourhood Workers Association (NWA) in 1914 when a group of volunteers came together to address the growing levels of poverty faced by many families in the city. See our Celebrating a Century in the City video, produced in 2014 to mark our centennial.
In 1962, NWA changed its name to “Family Service Association of Metropolitan Toronto”. In 2008, the name changed again to Family Service Toronto.
Originally, NWA served as an umbrella organization, bringing together churches and other charitable organizations to co-ordinate the provision of relief to families in need.
The association was instrumental in organizing relief during the influenza epidemic in 1918 and the Great Depression during the 1930s. NWA’s constitution charged the agency with the responsibility to acquire “information regarding the social needs of the community” and promote “the means to meet those needs.”
Today, FST provides more counselling, community building and other services than relief, but we are still here for Toronto’s most vulnerable citizens. While our organizational structure and nature of our work has evolved over time, our core values remain the same.
Single-session counselling can provide you with the emotional support, feedback and ideas on how to make positive changes in your life. You may also receive referral information to other community supports and resources, websites, apps, books, articles or groups. Each counselling session is treated like a separate counselling experience. The counselling session is 50 minutes and is open to all persons 18 years of age and older. Download the flyer
In-person: Family Service Toronto offers in-person single sessions at the Church Street location (3rd Floor, 355 Church St., Toronto, ON M5B 1Z8) from 2:30 pm to 7:00pm weekly on Thursdays. Registration begins at 2:00pm and ends at 5:30pm.
Note: Single Session Walk-in Counselling (WIC) will be virtual on Thursday October 2. Please call SAU at 416-595-9618 to book an appointment. We will return to in-person WIC on Thursday October 9.
Virtual: Our counsellors offer a single telephone or video-counselling session. Community members are invited to access our virtual counselling program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. To register call our Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 starting with 9 am. Registration ends at 5 pm. Depending on availability, an appointment time will be booked for you with a counsellor on that day between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00pm.
All Single Session Walk-in Counselling sessions, whether virtual or in-person, are provided free of charge.
Note: Any callers who may need crisis support will be directed to the appropriate service. The service will be closed on weekends and statutory holidays.
The FST single-session counselling service is appropriate for adult individuals, couples, and families ages 18 and above. People come to the single session walk-in wanting help with a variety of issues that may include but are not limited to anxiety; depression; social isolation; interpersonal conflict; personal stress; trauma; relationship issues; parenting concerns; general emotional upset; coping with abuse.
Due to the nature of the single-session model one cannot request a particular counsellor. We cannot guarantee that you will see the same counsellor if you return to the single session walk-in. Single-session counselling is not the same as on-going counselling where you see the same counsellor on a regular basis.
There is a growing amount of research that shows that single-session counselling has a positive impact for many people because they get the help they want when they most need it. Single-session counselling has been proven to decrease emotional distress in the short-term and may have positive long-term impact as well. Some people only need one or two counselling sessions to significantly improve their emotional well-being. Single-session counselling can help a person enhance their personal insight, access their healthy emotional resources, and develop useful coping strategies. The single session can help people develop helpful coping skills which may assist in the wait for more long-term services. The counsellor works collaboratively with each person to co-create a plan for support. With very few accessible counselling resources in the City of Toronto, the walk-in single-session counselling service is a valuable service for those who want the help now.
All counsellors are registered psychotherapists or social workers.
Upon arriving a receptionist will give you some paperwork that includes a one-page client information form, a brief questionnaire, and a service agreement. You will also be asked to read some information about your rights as a client and the Family Service Toronto privacy statement.
While Single Session Walk-in Counselling is always available in English, many of the counsellors on the team speak other languages. If you require counselling in a specific language, please contact the Service Access Unit, who will advise you as to whether we have a counsellor who speaks that language and when that counsellor may be available.
The questionnaire is to help people focus their thoughts on a single issue that is of most concern to them at the time they are at the session. Some of the questions are:
Registration for the in-person single-session begins at 2 pm for first and second-time clients. Wait time is based on the volume of clients. Our last appointment starts at 6 pm. Please be aware that due to capacity issues, it may not be possible to see all people who come to the in-person single-session on a given day.
Family Service Toronto is not able to provide child-care/child minding services during the session. If you have young children who require supervision, please ensure that you make arrangements for their care before you come to the walk-in. Children are not allowed to attend counselling sessions with their parents/guardians due to the sensitive nature of the sessions that are held. This includes babies.
Counselling at Family Service Toronto is strictly CONFIDENTIAL. The limitations to confidentiality include (1) If there is a safety or abuse concern about a minor (16 years old or under); (2) If client indicates that s/he may be an immediate physical threat to her/himself or another; (3) If the counsellor is subpoenaed by the court.
People who have had three single-session consultations within a 12-month period can only register for the in-person sessions at 5:30 pm on Thursdays and they will be offered the last time slot only if capacity allows.
For the virtual single session: If you have had 3 sessions within a 12-month period, you may request a session, however you will be placed on standby, and priority will be given to clients who have not previously accessed the service.
David Kelley Services (DKS) Program is named after the late David Kelley, one of the founders of the Toronto Counselling Centre for Lesbians and Gays (TCCLG). The program was established in 1996 after TCCLG merged with Family Service Toronto.
We are committed to trauma-informed, anti-oppression practices to help empower LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and families, as well as people living with, affected by or concerned about HIV/AIDS, and to enhance participation in their communities and in the broader society.
Family Service Toronto also has Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
If you are in crisis, contact:
For more information about DKS, contact Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618 or [email protected]
As Pride Month arrives, we honour the powerful legacy of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals who have long stood at the forefront of justice, resilience, and community care. At Family Service Toronto, we believe that true community care begins with equity, inclusion, and the celebration of every identity – and that commitment is more critical than ever in today’s climate.
In 2025, 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are under growing threat – not only abroad but here in Canada. We are seeing rising incidents of hate, well-funded campaigns targeting trans and queer communities, and regressive efforts to limit inclusive education, especially in schools. Anti-trans protests and disinformation have created increasingly hostile environments, particularly for young people. Against this backdrop, Pride is not just a celebration – it’s a necessary act of resistance.
This Pride Month, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to uplifting 2SLGBTQIA+ voices – not just in June, but every single day. We recognize that Pride was born from protest, from courageous acts of defiance led by trans women of colour and other queer pioneers. That spirit of collective resistance remains vital as we push for dignity, safety, and liberation for all 2SLGBTQIA+ people across Canada. We also shine light on the common humanity – the collective human longing for love, acceptance, and the freedom to be ourselves. These universal desires unite us and drive us to stand against discrimination and injustice.
At Family Service Toronto, we are actively centering the needs of the queer community in the following ways:
We also ask our broader community to reflect on these guiding values:
Let Pride be more than a moment. Let it be a sustained movement—a promise we carry forward through acts of compassion, bold allyship, and enduring commitment to justice. Together, let’s serve, uplift, and celebrate—loudly, proudly, and with purpose.
Join us Wednesday, June 11th from 3 to 6 p.m. at 353 Church Street for our Community Pride: Craft Lounge Event co-hosted with Hard Feelings. Drop by for an afternoon of creativity, including button-making, friendship bracelets, card writing, and collaging. Let’s come together as a community and as allies to honor our unique identities and collective strength. Snacks and art supplies provided. This is a free and accessible drop-in event — no registration required.
Learn more here: Community Pride Craft Lounge
Family Service Toronto also has Single Session Walk-in Counselling.
The David Kelley HIV/AIDS Counselling Program provides professional counselling and support services to people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Our services include goal-focused short to medium-term professional counselling to individuals, couples and families on issues such as loss, relationships, self-esteem, planning for healthy living, changing health status, and self-care.
We offer support groups as needed; referrals to other support services (financial, housing, treatment information, home care, etc.); advocacy on behalf of our clients.
For appointments, please contact the Service Access Unit at: 416.595.9618; [email protected]
The David Kelley Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer (LGBTQ+) Counselling Program provides professional, short-term, individual, couple and family counselling to people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or queer.
Our counselling helps people who are facing a broad range of issues such as coming out, sexual orientation and gender identity, isolation, discrimination, relationship issues, parenting, transitioning, self-esteem and violence. We recognize the diversity that exists within the community of people who identify as LGBTQ+. While everyone who identifies as LGBTQ+ experiences discrimination based on sexual orientation, many LGBTQ+ individuals face other forms of discrimination as well; sometimes from within the community itself. This is particular true for trans and two spirited people. Our programs/services reflect awareness that additional factors such as race, class, age and ability influence the way that individuals experience their sexual orientation and gender identity.
David Kelley Services program offers 2STNB+ Connect – a virtual peer support group which welcomes youth (age 16-29) across the gender identity spectrum to meet and connect with others in their community, explore their identities, and create meaningful relationships. The group provides a friendly and non-judgemental space for 2STNB+ youth at all different stages on their gender journey to socialize and discuss a wide range of issues; from social and medical transition, to family, to school, as well as to share interests.
Groups are ongoing on a bi-weekly basis. For group information and registration go to Family Service Toronto Workshops, Groups and Events page.
The David Kelley program also provides Partner Assault Response (PAR) services for court- and probation-mandated individuals charged with assault to a same-sex partner. This service has been adapted to address the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ communities. It is offered in collaboration with Family Service Toronto’s Next Steps / Partner Abuse Response Program. Service is arranged through referral to Service Access Unit by probation or by the courts through the Woman Abuse Council of Toronto.
David Kelley offers counselling for male survivors of sexual abuse (age 16+) who seek support to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago.
Our current workshops and groups are available on Workshops, Groups and Events page, David Kelley Services section.
Person-directed planning assists persons with developmental disabilities to create a meaningful life in their community by identifying their life goals and finding community connections, services and/or supports with the help of their families and/or significant others of their choice.
For more information to access funded planning for adults 18 years and older, read Person Directed Planning for Adults (18 years and over) brochure.
For more information to access funded plans for children and youth under 18 years, read Person Directed Planning for Children and Youth brochure.
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
If you have questions about Person-Directed Planning, contact Mansoora Qazi: [email protected] 416-971-6326 ext. 236
Person-directed planning helps a person with a developmental disability find the tools they need to live their dreams and to achieve their potential.
It can help people with developmental disabilities to:
In the Toronto Region, seven agencies funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) have been working collaboratively to provide support in the development and implementation of person-directed plans since 2009. COMPASS works together to ensure the values and principles of PDP are upheld, to increase planning capacity in the community, and to promote ongoing innovation and creativity.
The seven agencies are:
Person-directed planning helps you think about the life you want and your future.
With the help of a facilitator, it is a process which:
Planning can help direct your life the way you want. Planning can help you figure out how to share your strengths and talents, and how to find new opportunities. It’s good to be clear about what you want to do, how to do it, and the support you need to create the future you want.
Developmental Services Ontario Toronto Region (DSOTR)
Tel: 1-855-DS-ADULT or 1-855-372-3858
Tt y: 416-925-0295
Fax: 416-925-3402
Email: [email protected]
Community Living Toronto
Tel: 647- 426 -3220
Family Service Toronto
Tel: 416-971-6326 ext. 236
Corbrook
Tel: 416-245-5565 ext. 222
To get ready for a plan, think about whom you want to invite and what goals and dreams you want to talk about.
There are many tools planners use. All are flexible based on what you like and how
you communicate. The tools are not just another way to create a service plan, but are a different way of thinking about how to do what you want and reach your goals. Often your planning facilitator will meet with you before your planning meeting to talk about the tools and find what works best for you.
In the beginning you may meet more often, but the number of meetings depends on the progress towards your goals and how often you want to meet. There may also be meetings with just your planning facilitator in addition to meetings with your group.
A network is a group of people who meet regularly to help you to reach your goals or personal vision. Usually friends, family members, co-workers, neighbours, and sometimes service providers are part of a network. Most of the people in a network are not paid; they are there because they care about you and have agreed to work together to support you in making your life better.
Networks can happen at any stage in a person’s life but often form during periods of change or transition, such as starting high school, leaving school, moving out of the family home or looking for work. A planning facilitator can help you to create a network. As you become more involved in your community working on your goals, you may meet people who might become part of your network.
We do not have any workshops for the public at this time.
A guide written to assist staff working in the developmental services sector and across other organizations in furthering their understanding of person directed planning and the role of the facilitator in the planning process.
A Facilitator’s Guide to Person Directed Planning
Appendix 1: Corbrook Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 2: Griffin Centre Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 3: Montage Support Services Getting to Know You
Appendix 4: Operation Springboard Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 5: SMART Goal Checklist
Appendix 6: LPW Associates Checklist
David Kelley Services recognizes that coming out is a very complex and unique process that differs for everyone, and offers counselling support for LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families who are navigating this process.
Coming out refers to the process of recognizing, sharing, and disclosing one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity with others. For some, coming out is an important experience. Others may not even feel the need to come out at all. Ultimately, the decision rests with you – only you can choose whether or not you disclose your sexuality and/or gender identity to others.
Our current workshops and groups are available on Workshops, Groups and Events page, David Kelley Services section.
We do not have any workshops for the public at this time.
Client’s Rights and Responsibilities
David Kelley Community Counselling – a program for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans individuals
David Kelley – HIV/AIDS – professional counselling and support services to people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS
Families in Transition Parenting Resources – helpful resources for separating, divorcing and blended families
Options – a program for people with intellectual disabilities
Partner Assault Response Program
French translation: Programmes d’intervention auprès des partenaires violents.
Tamil translation: பங்காளி தாக்குதல் மறுமொழி
Pat’s Place – a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse
Spanish translation: Lugar de Pat
Seniors and Caregivers – social work services to older people and caregivers
Violence Against Women – a program for women who are being abused
Tamil translation: பெண்களுக்கு எதிரான திட்டம் வன்முறை.
Read also Early Warning Signs of Abuse – a quiz for those wanting to see if they are in a healthy relationship. You can also take the quiz online
Thank you for supporting Family Service Toronto programs and services.
Your contribution will support our work in counselling, community development, advocacy and education.
It will also ensure we continue to respond to emerging needs and advocate for positive social change to benefit families and communities across the city.
Donate online through Canada Helps by completing the form below. It lists programs to support and provides options for donation frequency, payment, dedication and more.
Family Service Toronto Charitable Registration Number: 10737 6063 RR0001
Separation, divorce and remarriage can create challenges for the whole family – especially the children. Quite often, children and adolescents experience feelings of sadness, loneliness and confusion as a result of a major family change.
Pour des informations en français
Passport is a program that helps adults with a developmental disability to participate in their communities, and helps caregivers take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), the Passport program works to:
For more information about the passport program, the Passport Program guidelines, Passport documents, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit https://passportfunding.ca/.
Family Service Toronto has an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. FST welcomes clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
128A Ste. 202, Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Phone: 416-780-1106 [email protected]
Submit invoices and receipts to: [email protected]
Our Passport Coordinator Team:
Our team of Passport Coordinators is here to provide you with ongoing information and support. We provide support to develop a plan and budget for your Passport funding, help link you to services in your community, and will follow up with you about program forms.
Your Coordinator is here for:
For more information about the passport program, the Passport Program guidelines, Passport documents, and to sign up to the Passport mailing list for the latest updates, please visit https://passportfunding.ca/.
Individualized Funding Resource Library. The Individualized Funding Library is a website to help you learn how to find and use your Individualized Funding
Brochure for IF Library Project
ConnectAbility: A website and virtual community dedicated to lifelong learning and support for people who have an intellectual disability, their families and support networks.
City of Toronto Parks and Recreation Programs
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
Depression and stress are words that are used a lot today. It seems many people are either feeling depressed or stressed out. Symptoms range from feelings of sadness after a loss, like the break-up of a relationship or the death of a loved one, to symptoms of more severe depression, including loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, etc.
Violence Against Women – Issues you may be facing
For more agencies that provide support, please call or text 211; toll free 1-877-330-3213;
24 hours a day/ 7 days a week database of community social services; available in over 150 languages
Police and Ambulance
Call 911 for immediate emergency assistance (police, fire, and/or ambulance)
For non-emergency police matters call 416-808-2222
416-863-0511
Toll free 1-866-863-0511
Toll free TTY 1-866-863-7868; #SAFE (#7233)
Confidential and anonymous crisis counseling, safety planning, emotional support, information and referrals, 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for women in Ontario; service available in 200 languages
Fem’aide
Pour les services en français veuillez appeler Fem’aide ; 1-877-336-2433
ATS 1-866-860-7082 ; 24 hueres sur 24 / 7 jours sur 7
416-408-4357 (408-HELP) available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week and 365 days a year
Provides crisis intervention & emotional support; multilingual helplines available
Call or text toll free 9-8-8 for the suicide crisis helpline
416-597-8808;
24 hours / 7 days a week
Provides peer support to survivors of sexual violence
416-323-9149
Legal, counselling and interpretation services to marginalized and racialized populations of women and gender diverse people who have survived violence
416-203-0050
Provides names and locations of food banks in Toronto Area
647-224-1371
Offers a variety of services for newcomer women and their families
416-439-7111
A women’s resource centre which provides information, education, and support services to assist women, girls, and gender diverse people
416-961-8100
Provides an array of programs for women, girls, and gender diverse people
416-808-7066
Provides support for victims of crime and sudden tragedy
Amnesty International Toronto Organization (AITO) Activism revolving around putting a stop to violence against women around the
White Ribbon Men working to end men’s violence against women
To become an Options client as an adult, you will need to apply to the DSO, and be referred to us by the DSO. You cannot obtain Options services by contacting Options directly.
Yes. The waitlist for adult services is held at the DSO. The waitlist for children’s services with Options is held with the Options-Children program.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As an Options client, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services). You may not have a second case manager through another agency.
Options is government-funded, so it will not cost you personal funding to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website.
A guide written to assist staff working in the developmental services sector and across other organizations in furthering their understanding of person directed planning and the role of the facilitator in the planning process.
A Facilitator’s Guide to Person Directed Planning
Appendix 1: Corbrook Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 2: Griffin Centre Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 3: Montage Support Services Getting to Know You
Appendix 4: Operation Springboard Person Directed Planning Tools
Appendix 5: SMART Goal Checklist
Appendix 6: LPW Associates Checklist
Individualized Funding Resource Library. The Individualized Funding Library is a website to help you learn how to find and use your Individualized Funding
Brochure for IF Library Project
ConnectAbility: A website and virtual community dedicated to lifelong learning and support for people who have an intellectual disability, their families and support networks.
City of Toronto Parks and Recreation Programs
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
If you’re ready to work at a place where values and action align, we’d love to meet you.
Family Service Toronto (FST) helps people face a wide variety of life challenges. For more than 100 years we have been working with individuals, families and communities impacted by precarious mental health and socio-economic challenges through counselling, community development, advocacy and public education programs.
Join our passionate, values-driven team to support our clients in their journeys towards greater resilience and strengthen our communities.
Every role here directly contributes to social change. Whether you are providing frontline support or helping behind the scenes, your work has an impact.
We don’t just serve the community – we’re part of it. We ground our work in compassion, lived experience, and community.
We celebrate diversity and support inclusivity and strive to create an environment where all team members feel respected, heard and valued.
We are looking for people who bring:
We actively encourage applicants from all equity seeking groups who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black and People of Color, people with disabilities, people of diverse gender expression, members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities and people with lived experience of poverty are encouraged to apply.
At the heart of our work within each program at FST is a vision of a city where people are resilient and thriving in more just and supportive communities. Every volunteer plays a meaningful role in helping us move closer to that future.
Whether you are passionate about mental health, community well-being or social justice, your skills and/or lived experience are valued here.
Your time can help individuals or families access resources, feel seen, and take next steps towards their goals.
Gain experience in trauma-informed approaches, learn about community-based work, and develop meaningful connections.
Join a team that celebrates diversity, centres lived experience and strives to make lasting systemic change.
Whether it’s a few hours a week or a few hours a month, volunteers support our work in many ways, including:
We will work with you to a find a role that matches your interests, unique strengths and talent and availability.
Our work is grounded in compassion, inclusion and respect. As a volunteer you will receive:
We offer student placements for those who want to deepen their understanding of mental health, community work, social justice and more.
If you are a college or university student looking for a meaningful placement that offers real-world experience, personal growth and the chance to make a difference, join us.
Work directly with individuals, families and communities navigating complex mental health and socio-economic challenges. Your work will make a real difference while applying what you’re learning in the classroom.
Our team is grounded in compassion, equity and inclusion. You will be mentored and supported in a space that values your perspective and prioritizes trauma-informed care.
Develop your capacity in areas like community outreach, case management, systems navigation, peer support, and advocacy while building professional confidence and resilience.
We welcome students from a range of disciplines including:
We are looking for students are compassionate, engaged and committed to equity and social change. Lived experience and diverse identities are valued here.
Family Service Toronto (FST) membership is open to individuals who support our mission and vision of a city in which people are resilient and thriving in more just and supportive communities. The term of membership is one (1) year and there is no fee.
FST offers two types of membership, one for community members and one for our employees.
Benefits include notice of, and voting privileges at, the annual meeting in September or any other special meetings of members; subscriptions to FST communications and invitations to special events.
Benefits include notice of the annual meeting in September or any other special meetings of members; subscriptions to FST communications and invitations to special events.
Thank you for supporting Family Service Toronto programs and services.
Your contribution will support our work in counselling, community development, advocacy and education.
It will also ensure we continue to respond to emerging needs and advocate for positive social change to benefit families and communities across the city.
Donate online through Canada Helps by completing the form below. It lists programs to support and provides options for donation frequency, payment, dedication and more.
Family Service Toronto Charitable Registration Number: 10737 6063 RR0001
Family Service Toronto sources of revenue are diverse ranging from grants from United Way and Government funding to donations from individuals and earned income.
Audited Financial Statements for April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025 are available to download.
Financial Statements 2024/2025
Financial Statements 2022/2023
Financial Statements 2021/2022
Financial Statements 2020/2021
Financial Statements 2018/2019
Financial Statements 2017/2018
Financial Statements 2016/2017
Healthy Families, Healthy Communities (HFHC) is a program for newcomer families supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The program supports newcomers to recognize and address abuse and violence within their family and community. Newcomers have the opportunity to participate in initiatives that prevent family and community violence and create space for sharing and learning about life in Canada.
Canadians and long-standing immigrants from the the Iranian, Afghan, Somali, Arabic and Nigerian communities are trained to become peer leaders and community facilitators. Peer leaders and facilitators create a welcoming environment within their communities for newcomer parents, women, seniors and youth and help them understand how to integrate their cultural practices, behaviours and expectations into a Canadian context.
HFHC program provides workshops and peer-support groups which offer newcomers the opportunity to connect with people who speak their language and understand their culture, support each other, identify issues they feel are of concern, share stories, practise speaking English, discuss strategies for solving problems and reflect on their experience.
Community facilitators lead workshops for parents on a variety of topics including:
Community facilitators and peer leaders also lead workshops for youth on a variety of topics including:
Peer support groups take place in a youth-friendly and culturally-appropriate space, which may be in an agency, a community centre or within a high school.
When appropriate, there are separate female and male peer support groups. The groups are led by trained young adult, peer leaders who understand the culture and speak the language of the participants. They facilitate the group and provide support and resources.
The peer leaders have received intensive training and education in anti-violence work, human rights and Canadian law, conflict mediation and stress management. They all work within an anti-racist, anti-oppression framework. Conversation circles led by a peer leader are used to facilitate discussions and sharing in the support groups.
For more information about the Healthy Families Healthy Communities project, please contact Roberto Abeabe, Manager Community Engagement 416-755-5565 ext 422
Abuse and abuse prevention for:
This group is dedicated to FST clients, 18 years or over. Participants have a chance to have fun, talk about staying healthy, feeling supported and potentially forming meaningful connections. During meetings, the topics of discussion are chosen collaboratively by participants. Volunteers help run the group with assistance from FST staff.
The group is open and ongoing, holding regular meetings every Monday from 12 to 1 p.m., except on public holidays.
If you want to participate please contact:
Heather Shaw: 416-846 4930 [email protected]; or
Joel Schreiber: 437 224 0584 [email protected]
Best Buddies is an international program dedicated to breaking down barriers between people and erasing misconceptions about individuals with developmental disabilities. The program creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships by matching Options clients with volunteer university students. Contact your Options worker if you are interested in the best buddies program
Directions to FST Sterling Office:
There are several ways to reach our new location by TTC:
Streetcars: 506 and 505
Both the eastbound and westbound 506 CARLTON/COLLEGE and 505 DUNDAS streetcars stop at Sterling Road where you walk North about three minutes to our office.
Subway: Line 2
Get off at DUNDAS WEST SUBWAY STATION and then:
You can also call the TTC at 416-393-INFO (4636) for directions.
If you drive a vehicle, limited visitor parking is available and it requires QR code scanning at FST Reception. If you come by bike, there are bike racks available near the building entrance.
The building is wheelchair accessible.
Two large meeting rooms (capacity up to 60 people) are available at our downtown, 355 Church Street, location during weekdays for a full or half day or by the hour. Rental includes use of a fully equipped kitchen.
Warden and Sterling Rooms
Capacity up to 60
Full Day (5 hrs +) – $350
Half Day (4 hrs or less) – $200
Hourly – $75
The state-of-the-art rooms are equipped with WiFi, teleconference unit, projection/screens(ceiling mounted) and ceiling audio speakers.
For more information or for booking please contact:
Silvia Volpentesta
Facilities Coordinator, Corporate Services
T: 416.595.9230 x 246
E: [email protected]
Download 355 Church St. Rental Application.
Your feedback and comments about your rental experience are appreciated. Please take a few short moments to complete our online survey.
Family Service Toronto has room rentals available for meetings, workshops, conferences or special events at easy-to-access locations downtown (355 Church St.) and in the city’s west-end (128A Sterling Road).
Rooms may be booked for a full day, (8 hours) or half day (4 hours), or by the hour, Monday through Friday. Access to FST buildings is 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m. All rooms are fully accessible and equipped with WiFi, digital projection, screens, speakers, tables, chairs, flip charts and include access to a non-commercial kitchen with fridge, dishwasher, microwave and oven.
For more information or for booking please contact:
| Silvia Volpentesta Facilities Coordinator, Corporate Services T: 416.595.9230 x 246 E: [email protected] |
Payment must be received in advance of the date(s) booked. Make cheque payable to Family Service Toronto and mail to 355 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5B 0B2. Credit card payments are accepted.
There will be no refund unless written notice of cancellation is received seven business days prior to the date(s) booked. For cancellations with less than seven days notice, a refund will be issued and will include an administration fee of $30.
Please use public parking or street parking for vehicles. FST doesn’t provide reserved parking. Bike parking is available at street level. Bikes are not permitted inside our buildings.
By renting our rooms you agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify Family Service Toronto from any and all liability, costs or other claims resulting from any and all claims originating as a result of your use of the premises, equipment, or any and all other facilities provided by Family Service Toronto.
Users are required to provide an insurance certificate with their application.
Users are welcome to bring in their own choice of food and beverages A variety of cafes are within walking distance for carry-out beverages. FST doesn’t provide coffee/tea service.
Church Street Office
355 Church Street
Toronto, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Wednesday Walk-in: 3:30-7:30pm
Evening/weekend groups by appt.
Closed weekends and holidays
Sterling Rd. Office
128a Sterling Rd
Toronto, ON M6R 2B7, Canada
Contact
416-780-1106
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
LAMP Community Health Centre
185 Fifth Street
Etobicoke, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Rexdale Community Health Centre
8 Taber Road
Etobicoke, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Victoria Park Hub
1527 Victoria Park Avenue
Scarborough, ON, Canada
Contact
416.595.9618
Hours
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Closed weekends and holidays
Family Service Toronto
355 Church Street, Toronto, M5B 0B2
Reception desk, Central office
t. 416-595-9230 ext. 0
f. 416-595-0242
Service Access Worker
t. 416-595-9618
e. [email protected]
Intake worker
t. 416-971-6326 ext. 317
Reception Desk
T. 416-780-1106
For more information about how to access FST programs and services please see Service Access Unit and FST Programs and Services.
Anne Dragone
Executive Assistant to the Executive Director
t. 416-595 9230 ext. 258
e. [email protected]
Shawn West
Director
e. [email protected]
Veronika Gremi
Senior Accountant
e. [email protected]
Brian Porter
Director · Communications & Special Projects
t. 416-595-9230 ext. 225
e. [email protected]
Ligia Hendry
Digital Media Specialist
e. [email protected]
Human Resources
e. [email protected]
Coordinator, Student Placements
e. [email protected]
Sojie Tate
HR Operations Manager
e: [email protected]
Two meeting rooms are available at our 128A Sterling Road location during weekdays for a full or half day or by the hour. The state-of-the-art rooms are equipped with WiFi, projection/screens and ceiling audio speakers. Rental includes use of a fully equipped kitchen.
Capacity up to 50
Full Day (5hrs +) – $250
Half Day (4hrs or less) – $125
Hourly – $50
Capacity up to 28
Full Day (5hrs +) – $175
Half Day (4hrs or less) – $100
Hourly – $35
For more information or for booking please contact
Silvia Volpentesta
Facilities Coordinator, Corporate Services
T: 416.595.9230 x 246
E: [email protected]
Download Sterling Rd. meeting rooms rental application.
Your feedback and comments about your rental experience are appreciated. Please take a few short moments to complete our online survey.
Family Service Toronto is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA).
Accreditation is an independent process that service organizations and agencies use to evaluate and improve the quality of care and services. It is an opportunity to be evaluated against national standards of excellence and to identify opportunities for improvement.
Accreditation provides FST with an opportunity to showcase its extraordinary achievements as one of the city’s largest service agencies working to assist individuals experiencing various life challenges.
The Options Children Program works with children (birth to 18) with a diagnosed developmental disability in collaboration with their families, caregivers, and support networks.
The program is dedicated to creating an inclusive community where every child can feel empowered to grow and share their skills. Through work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, the Options Children team members looks to support children and families in the city of Toronto.
The Options Children Program provides case management and service navigation supports. We work within an anti-oppressive framework, by using an individualized and person-directed approach to promote equity and inclusion as it focuses on the child’s and family’s strengths. Our team of Children Community Resource Facilitators provide information, referrals, and the coordination of services for children with developmental disabilities and their support network. Options Children utilizes a goal-oriented, time-limited service plan that is created and regularly reviewed with clients to provide optimal care. The team aims to provide information on services and supports to help clients and their support network to make informed choices on both traditional and non-traditional supports in their community.
Download Options Children Program flyer
We are located at Family Service Toronto, 128A Sterling Rd. Office.
For information and/or referrals please call 416.971.6326 x 317 or email [email protected]
In order to register for the Options Children program, a parent/caregiver/individual supporting the child can call the Intake line directly at 416. 971.6326 ext. 317 or email [email protected] with the child’s confirmation of diagnosis.
In collaboration with our partner agency Surrey Place:
At Family Service Toronto, Options Children works alongside Surrey Place to provide a person-centered approach to Coordinated Service Planning.
For more information go to Surrey Place Coordinated Service Planning:
Phone: 1-833-575-KIDS (5437)
Online Inquiries: https://www.surreyplace.ca/registration/
At Family Service Toronto, Options Children works alongside Surrey Place to provide rapid, time-limited support for children with Autism to address a specific, identified, urgent need. Through a collaboration with other services, FST Children Community Resource Facilitators provide service coordination with the development of service plans, overseeing the client’s clinical team, and providing service navigation to other services within or outside of the Ontario Autism Program.
For more information go to Surrey Place Urgent Response Service:
Phone: 1-833-575-KIDS (5437)
Online Inquiries: https://www.surreyplace.ca/registration/
Children who have not yet been diagnosed are not eligible for service at Options. If you would like to learn more about receiving a diagnosis, you can contact the Options intake worker who will provide you with some ideas about how/where to get an assessment for your child.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As a client of the Options Children program, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services).
You can only receive case management/service navigation services from one agency.
Options is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, so there are no fees to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options Children program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website.
If you are currently a client of the Options Children program and are interested in volunteering, please speak with your worker.
Counselling for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse available through various programs of FST, primarily Counselling Service Program and David Kelly LGBTQ/HIV AIDS Program
There are thousands of male survivors living in communities across Ontario. There is approximately one in six men who have experienced sexual abuse at some time in their lives. They come from every community, background and lifestyle. Men and boys who are victimized have needs that specially trained counsellors understand, and they can help. Don’t suffer in silence when help is only a phone call away. Services for male survivors of sexual abuse can help you to deal with the impact of unwanted sexual experiences, whether recent or from years ago. You will learn that you are not alone, you will meet people you can trust to help you understand your problems. You will get the help you need to deal with the impact of the abuse. You will learn how to improve relationships with friends and family.*
To be eligible for service, a male survivor must:
The family of a male survivor may also be eligible for service. Please contact our Service Access Unit at 416 595 9618 to discuss your situation.
Confidential counselling services are provided free of charge up to 8 sessions. Should there be a need for further service this will be discussed with your counsellor and a sliding scale fee assessed for fee paying programs. FST is committed to charging fair and equitable fees based on before tax income and family size.
* Excerpts from pamphlet for 24/7 Information and Referral Services, a toll free phone line for immediate crisis and referral services from anywhere in Ontario at 1-866-887-0015
Clients, parents, and caregivers in the Building Inclusive Communities Programs were invited to participate in a conversation about their experiences with Options and Passport services. Data was collected through two virtual group consultations and individual phone calls. The Family Service Toronto – Building Inclusive Communities Virtual Stakeholder Consultation Report is a summary of conversations that took place. Family Service Toronto would like to thank the clients and parents who were able to participate on such short notice, and for sharing their personal stories and feedback with us.
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Service (SCSS) Unit at Family Service Toronto provides social work services to older people and caregivers. Our work includes counselling, group work, advocacy, training and educational sessions on a variety of topics such as aging and memory loss, anger and guilt, how to access community resources, abuse of older adults, etc.
For up-to-date information on current workshops and groups, please visit the Workshops, Groups and Events page.
You can come to our office for counselling, attend support groups or educational seminars, talk to a trained counsellor by telephone or, in exceptional circumstances, arrange for a home/community visit. We are able to provide counselling in English and Spanish.
We provide counselling services for those facing issues such as:
As an older adult you can count on us to help you get the support you need. We provide counselling services for a variety of issues such as:
As the caregiver of an aging parent, relative or friend, our trained counsellors will help you:
Pat’s Place is a temporary safe haven for older people experiencing abuse. At Pat’s Place we offer a welcoming environment where residents can take time out from their current situation.
At Pat’s Place we believe that all older people have the right to live a life free of harm. We are striving to create an environment where an older person can live with dignity and in peace.
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Service Unit at Family Service Toronto offers training workshops for seniors’ groups, the general public and service providers on a variety of areas.
Workshops cost:
To find out how to present a case to the team, please contact Lisa Manuel, EACT Coordinator, at 416-595-4049 or [email protected]
EACT meets once a month on Fridays, 1-3 p.m. All meetings are held on Zoom.
January 17, February 21, March 21, April 25, May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, October 17, November 21, December 12
We also offer information and education sessions on a range of topics including:
For other questions regarding counselling in general, please check Programs and Services/FAQ
For questions regarding Pat’s Place, please go to Pat’s Place page
Services are free for seniors and their caregivers
For service providers, fees are based on an hourly rate and will be negotiated to meet individual circumstances.
People 60 years of age and older who are being abused emotionally, physically, sexually, financially or in other ways by a family member can use Pat’s Place. Pat’s Place is open to women, men and transgendered persons.
People who move to Pat’s Place must be able to care for themselves. If a person requires some supports we will work with them to determine if we can put them in place. If the person can function independently when support services are not present, they will be considered for entry to the program.
No, it is important to realize that Pat’s Place is not a shelter. It is an apartment in a secure location in Toronto. It is not staffed like a shelter (i.e. staff on site 24/7).
For more information about the types of workshops we are currently running, or to sign up, please call 416-595-9618. If you want to sign up for a workshop or group that has already started and registration is closed, you may be put on the waiting list for the next series.
Please note that FST is offering services virtually and by phone, as offices remain closed to the public. The full list of FST workshops and groups offered at this time, virtually or in-person, is available on the Virtual Workshops and Groups page.
Dates and times for workshops and groups might be different than listed below. Please contact FST’s Service Access Unit for more information.
Join our discussion group for women 60+. Learn to restore your self-confidence and build support in your life.
Date: Second and fourth Monday afternoon each month
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location : Zoom
Facilitator: Zenia Castanos
Pre-registration required, please call Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
No-Fee. Donations welcome.
A virtual group for parents 55+ of adult children who have been unable to secure their independence due to:
Come out and meet other parents who are dealing with similar issues. Learn how to protect yourself against abuse while supporting your adult child in gaining independence.
Date: Fourth Thursday each month
Time: 1:30 – 3 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitator: Brenda Anderson
Registration: To participate please call 416-595-9618.
A virtual group for women 60+
Sharing our stories, we discover we are not alone.
When: Second Wednesday each month;
Time: 1:30 – 3:00p.m.
Location: Zoom
Pre-Registration required. Please call Family Service Toronto’s Service Access Unit at 416-595-9618.
FST Seniors and Caregivers and Senior Community Connections programs offer monthly groups for the Latino Hispanic Community. To learn more about the program go to Seniors Community Connections – Family Service Toronto or to see current groups go to Workshops and Groups – Community Connections Program
CNAP: The Community Navigation and Access Program (CNAP) is a network over 30 community support service (CSS) agencies in the Toronto area who are collaborating to improve access and coordination of support services for older adults, their care providers and health care stakeholders.
CCAC: There are a number of Community Care Access Centres throughout the Toronto area that offer everything from in-home health and social services to information about placement into long-term care facilities. Services are often provided in a variety of languages.
211 Toronto: For information about other community services in the Toronto Area you can call the Community Information Toronto Helpline – (416 or 905 area) dial 211.
Or, for other areas: 416-397-4636
The Canadian Mental Health Association: The Toronto Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association offers a range of community support services for persons with serious mental health problems, as well as education and mental health promotion to the general community.
Mood Disorder Association of Ontario: is a self-help association for persons with depression, manic depression, dual disabilities and their families and friends.
Alzheimer Society of Toronto
2323 Yonge Street, Suite 500
Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2C9
Tel: 416-322-6560
[email protected]
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario
1920 Yonge Street, 4th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, M4S 3E2
Tel: 416-489-7111; Healthline: 1-888-HSF-INFO
[email protected]
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
250 Bloor Street East, Suite 1000
Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3P9
Tel: 416-922-6065; 1-800-268-7582
[email protected]
Parkinson Society of Canada
4211 Yonge Street, Suite 316
Toronto, Ontario, M2P 2A9
Tel: 416-727-9700; 1-800-565-3000
[email protected]
Public pensions: Information on the Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security pension and related benefits, the Canadian retirement income calculator and retirement planning.
Ministry of the Attorney General website: Power of Attorney Kit and Living Wills
Toronto Public Library: Local libraries, throughout the Toronto area, have an extensive number of books and videos on caregiving. For more information, call or visit your local library.
Attend Caregiver Seminars and Workshops: There are a number of caregiver information workshops that take place throughout the city on a regular basis. For more information about the one closest to you call your local Community Information Centre or Neighbourhood Information Post. Numbers are usually listed in the front of your phone book. For workshops in the Toronto area call Community Information Toronto at 416-397-4636. Workshops for seniors and caregivers are also often listed in local community newspapers.
In addition to going to your local library for videos on caregiving, you might also try the National Film Board. They can be reached by calling 416-973-3012 or you can visit their website at www.nfb.ca. You can also check out The Caregiver Network Inc. This organization is an excellent resource for caregivers. They also have a video series called The Aging and Caregiving Video Series. For more information, or to contact them please call 1-800-757-4868.
The Alzheimer Society of Canada has a number of videos on caregiving. For more information or to contact them, please call 1-800-616-8816 (valid only in Canada) or visit their website at www.alzheimer.ca
June 15, 2006 was the debut of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). It is celebrated each year on this day. The day is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action which recognizes the significance of abuse and neglect of older adults as a public health and human rights issue. Throughout the world, senior abuse and neglect is largely under-recognized or treated as an unspoken problem.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, communities and governments around the world to recognize the reality of abuse and neglect of older adults. Canadians have been a big part of this effort.
For more information, read the following fact sheets for more information on elder abuse:
The Seniors and Caregivers Support Services Unit at Family Service Toronto (FST) receives part of its funding from Ontario Health. In the interests of full public accountability and transparency, and as one of the conditions of the Multi-Sector Service Accountability Agreement – April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024 (M-SAA), FST is required to publish the fully executed legal agreement. This agreement outlines the nature of FST’s obligations to Ontario Health. FST’s certificate of compliance with this agreement, for the period April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025 is posted here.
Additional copies of the legal agreement are posted in the office locations from which the Seniors and Caregivers Support Services Unit provides service.
If you have any questions about this agreement, please contact Lisa Manuel, Director, Clinical Services Programs at 416-595-9230 ext. 316 or [email protected]
For people living with HIV, we provide counselling for a wide range of issues that may affect your health and wellbeing such as: the impact of being diagnosed with HIV, having a healthy sex life, being in healthy relationships, disclosing HIV status, dealing with stigma and discrimination, HIV and aging and more.
For people in magnetic relationships (mixed HIV status or serodiscordant couples) we offer couple counselling as well as individual support for HIV-negative partners regarding the impact of HIV, healthy sex, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), caregiver support, grief and loss, and more.
For people who are uncertain about their risk of getting HIV, we offer support regarding safer sex, understanding actual risks, deciding to get tested, considering pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and more.
Being a parent can be tough sometimes, whether you’re raising kids on your own, or with a partner. But some things can make the job even harder – things like being new in your community, or being isolated by cultural or language barriers, or having a child diagnosed with a developmental disability, or being unemployed.
Si vous désirez obtenir des services en français, prière d’appeler la ligne FEM’AIDE au 1-877-336-2433.
The aim of Family Service Toronto’s Violence against Women (VAW) program is to promote non-violence and to work towards the eventual elimination of violence against women. The VAW Program assists women-identified people who have experienced abuse during the course of their lives. Abuse may have occurred in childhood, during a past relationship, or it may be an ongoing concern in a current relationship.
For up-to-date information on current workshops and groups, please visit the Workshops, Groups and Events page, Violence against Women section, or contact our Service Access Unit at 416.595.9618.
Our counselling services are available in English, Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish, and Tamil to women-identified people who live and/or work in Toronto. We provide counselling people who have been labelled with developmental or intellectual disabilities and have experienced abuse.
Counselling services provided on an individual basis are goal-directed and time limited. You and your counsellor will work together to define a plan of service and will regularly check in on progress.
The VAW Program works from a feminist, intersectional, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed framework. Read the VAW Intersectional Feminist Statement for more information.
For more information about the VAW program please contact:
Woman abuse is defined as the intent by a man to intimidate and control his female partner, either by threat or by physical force on her person, her children, her pets or her property. The purpose of abuse is to induce fear and gain control. Underlying all abuse is a power imbalance between offender and victim.
If you are in crisis now, please call one of the following lines:
FST-VAW Early Warning Signs quiz is a simple way for girls and women of all ages and abilities to determine if they are in an unhealthy or dangerous relationship. The content of the questions were informed by women who were in abusive relationship and what they said they experienced with their partners. Read or take the Early Warning Signs quiz, or download/print Early Warning Signs brochure.
To learn more about abuse please read VAW – Issues you may be facing
Violence Against Women – Issues you may be facing
For more agencies that provide support, please call or text 211; toll free 1-877-330-3213;
24 hours a day/ 7 days a week database of community social services; available in over 150 languages
Police and Ambulance
Call 911 for immediate emergency assistance (police, fire, and/or ambulance)
For non-emergency police matters call 416-808-2222
416-863-0511
Toll free 1-866-863-0511
Toll free TTY 1-866-863-7868; #SAFE (#7233)
Confidential and anonymous crisis counseling, safety planning, emotional support, information and referrals, 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for women in Ontario; service available in 200 languages
Fem’aide
Pour les services en français veuillez appeler Fem’aide ; 1-877-336-2433
ATS 1-866-860-7082 ; 24 hueres sur 24 / 7 jours sur 7
416-408-4357 (408-HELP) available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week and 365 days a year
Provides crisis intervention & emotional support; multilingual helplines available
Call or text toll free 9-8-8 for the suicide crisis helpline
416-597-8808;
24 hours / 7 days a week
Provides peer support to survivors of sexual violence
416-323-9149
Legal, counselling and interpretation services to marginalized and racialized populations of women and gender diverse people who have survived violence
416-203-0050
Provides names and locations of food banks in Toronto Area
647-224-1371
Offers a variety of services for newcomer women and their families
416-439-7111
A women’s resource centre which provides information, education, and support services to assist women, girls, and gender diverse people
416-961-8100
Provides an array of programs for women, girls, and gender diverse people
416-808-7066
Provides support for victims of crime and sudden tragedy
Amnesty International Toronto Organization (AITO) Activism revolving around putting a stop to violence against women around the
White Ribbon Men working to end men’s violence against women
Intimate relationships are extremely important to us. Most of us are either actively seeking them out or are trying to maintain the ones we have. They can be a great source of love, pleasure, support and excitement. However they can also be a source of pain and anguish if problems arise and don’t go away.
One thing that’s important to remember is that conflict is a normal part of all relationships. Learning how to resolve conflicts and differences of opinion is a must for any relationship to flourish. If you and your partner are still committed to your relationship, it’s important that you both acknowledge that this is a problem that must be addressed.
Informations sur le programme en français
The Partner Assault Response (PAR) program is a Domestic Violence Court initiative that delivers a specialized community-based group education/counselling program to offenders who have been mandated by the court to attend the PAR program in response to a criminal charge involving domestic violence.
At Family Service Toronto (FST), we call this program the Next Steps program.
This program, funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General’s Ontario Victim Services, is a court-ordered sanction that provides offenders with an opportunity to:
The primary objectives of the PAR program are to:
Work in the program is oriented to providing:
We currently offer five English and one Tamil open-ended groups. Open-ended groups can be joined at any time as long as the participant attends 12 weeks from the moment of registration.
We currently operate six English language groups online on Tuesday and Thursday nights, from 6:30-8:30 and three groups on Saturday mornings, two from 10-12 and one from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
One English language group is offered on site at our downtown Toronto location on Wednesday mornings from 10:00-12:00.
Tamil language groups are offered two to three times a year, on line, on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
A group for male-identified members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community is offered on Mondays from 4:00-6:00. This group runs two to three times a year.
All of our groups are closed groups, meaning that all participants start and end at the same time.
We stagger the start times of each group, to be able to accommodate referrals on as timely a basis as possible.
We also offer services in French on an individual basis.
There is an intake/assessment session and 12 sessions after that. All participants are required to complete all sessions.
Yes, you are required to pay for this program based on a sliding scale. We will ask you about your individual income to determine your fee. If a request is made to change the fee, we reserve the right to request proof of income or at any other time.
As a condition of your court order, you must pay the total assessed fee. You will sign an agreement specific to the program about this and you will also sign a fee contract with Family Service Toronto.
Yes, there are several grounds upon which a person can be discharged from the program. They include:
There are nine mandatory topics that are covered, including:
1. Domestic Violence – Defining Abuse
2. How Beliefs and Attitudes Affect Behaviour
3. The Effects of Abuse on Children, Partners and Self
4. Understanding Triggers / Warning Signs
5. The Impact of Substance Abuse
6. Healthy Relationships
7. Respectful Communication
8. Dealing with Conflict
9. Responsibility and Accountability
The group leaders will complete a closing report which is sent to the Courts or your probation officer. They will review this report and determine if you have fulfilled the conditions of your court order.
Aging can bring many changes in the lives of older adults: loss of independence, mobility and privacy; isolation; financial difficulties and the death of partners or friends are only a few of the challenges growing older presents. The stresses of caring for an older loved one can be equally overwhelming.
Pour des informations en fran§ais
Partner Contact Program is designed to support the partners of the Next Steps/Partner Assault Response Program participants.
If your partner or ex-partner is participating in Family Service Toronto’s Next Steps/Partner Assault Response (PAR) Program, our Partner Contact staff will contact you by phone to talk with you about the program. If we can’t reach you by phone, we will send you a letter if we have your address.
The purpose of this program is to:
You will be contacted by a staff person from our Partner Contact team who has a good understanding of domestic violence and does not work in our PAR program.
It is your decision whether you wish to speak to a partner contact worker or not. We take our direction from you.
The person who contacts you will provide you with information about your partner/ex-partner’s participation in group, such as:
The discussions you have with partner contact staff are confidential except in specific situations which it is important you are aware of. We are required to disclose information you provide us to the Crown and/or probation officers in the following circumstances:
In addition, If you tell us a child under the age of 16 has been or is being abused or neglected or we suspect this based on what you tell us, we are required by law to report this to a Children’s Aid Society
You should know that any information that we are required to provide to the Crown, may have to be provided to your partner/ex-partner and their lawyer if the case is still before the court.
If safety concerns are identified by our staff, they will be taken into consideration in the Program Completion Report that is sent to the Court.
Yes, staff keep notes on each contact they make with you or when an attempt to contact you has been made. These notes are kept separate from your partner/ex-partners notes and only you can access them.
For a list of resources in the community and safety tips, please visit our Violence Against Women resource list
For emergency resources see FST resources page
Learn about Family Service Toronto’s Partner Assault Response program
As a victim of a crime, you have rights in Ontario. Ontario’s Victims’ Bill of Rights establishes a set of principles to support victims of crime throughout the justice process. It requires that victims be treated with:
Learn more about the principles that apply to the treatment of victims of crime.
Ontario’s Victims’ Bill of Rights also specifies that victims should have information about all the following:
Here is the link for details on the Victim’s Bill of Rights
The federal government also has a Bill of Rights for Victims of Crime. You can learn more about it at https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-23.7/page-1.html or you can read this fact sheet
Transitional and Housing Support Services involves supports around attaining temporary or permanent housing for people in need. Family Service Toronto’s Transitional and Housing Support Program offers women-identified individuals who have made the decision to leave an abusive relationship practical support to assist their transition into their new home and community. This support can involve assistance with referrals to different supports (i.e., financial, legal, etc.), information regarding housing and support with housing applications, Ontario Works and ODSP among other applications.
Sexual orientation is commonly categorized based on the gender towards one holds an emotional, romantic, sexual or affectional attraction. Sexual orientation exists on a wide spectrum, and differs across cultures. In the West, the terms most commonly used to define one’s sexual orientation, are: gay (same-gender attraction between people who identify as men), lesbian (same-gender attraction between people who identify as women), straight (attraction to someone of a gender different from one’s own), bisexual (attraction towards individuals of any gender), queer (an umbrella term for non-straight sexual orientations), as well as asexual (the lack of/or minimal sexual attraction towards anyone).
Gender identity refers to an individual’s sense of being masculine, feminine, two-spirit, trans (which includes, but is not limited to: transgender, transfeminine, transmasculine, genderqueer, non-binary), or any other number of identities that may or may not align with the gender assigned to one at birth. For some people, their gender identity corresponds with the gender assigned to them at birth (what we would call cisgender). For others, gender identity differs from the gender assigned to one at birth. It is important to distinguish gender identity (one’s sense of gender) from sexual orientation (the gender towards which one is attracted to).
At the Options program, we work in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and communities.
Options is dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive communities where everyone can contribute their skills and talents. We work in the city of Toronto, supporting children and adults, their families and surrounding communities. We work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, in order to create community connections.
Our focus is on equity and inclusion and is guided by a person-directed approach, allowing us to support and empower individuals and families.
Services are available to adults (18 and over) diagnosed with developmental/intellectual disability and their families, who reside in Toronto. This service is free and is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS).
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
Community Resource Facilitators collaborate with individuals, families and caregivers to reach their desired goals. This is accomplished through service coordination, community connections, circles of support and advocacy. Our approach is to break down barriers and find ways to facilitate interconnected lives within family groups and communities. This service can only be accessed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).
Community Networking is a process that challenges and invites ordinary places to be more inclusive. Community Network Facilitators work with individuals, families, small groups and community organizations to explore and build connections with community places and people. Our work supports individuals to explore their interests and enhance their community involvement. This service is only available if you are already an Options client.
To become an Options client as an adult, you will need to apply to the DSO, and be referred to us by the DSO. You cannot obtain Options services by contacting Options directly.
Yes. The waitlist for adult services is held at the DSO. The waitlist for children’s services with Options is held with the Options-Children program.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As an Options client, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services). You may not have a second case manager through another agency.
Options is government-funded, so it will not cost you personal funding to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website.
This group is dedicated to FST clients, 18 years or over. Participants have a chance to have fun, talk about staying healthy, feeling supported and potentially forming meaningful connections. During meetings, the topics of discussion are chosen collaboratively by participants. Volunteers help run the group with assistance from FST staff.
The group is open and ongoing, holding regular meetings every Monday from 12 to 1 p.m., except on public holidays.
If you want to participate please contact:
Heather Shaw: 416-846 4930 [email protected]; or
Joel Schreiber: 437 224 0584 [email protected]
Best Buddies is an international program dedicated to breaking down barriers between people and erasing misconceptions about individuals with developmental disabilities. The program creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships by matching Options clients with volunteer university students. Contact your Options worker if you are interested in the best buddies program
Clients, parents, and caregivers in the Building Inclusive Communities Programs were invited to participate in a conversation about their experiences with Options and Passport services. Data was collected through two virtual group consultations and individual phone calls. The Family Service Toronto – Building Inclusive Communities Virtual Stakeholder Consultation Report is a summary of conversations that took place. Family Service Toronto would like to thank the clients and parents who were able to participate on such short notice, and for sharing their personal stories and feedback with us.
Social Action ‘s work is focused on driving system-level change for more just and supportive communities at the local, provincial and national levels.
Poverty, marginalization and discrimination are at the root of the inequality that affects our communities. We work with diverse partners at the neighbourhood, city-wide, provincial and federal levels in coalitions and networks. We develop effective policy solutions, engage residents in leadership opportunities and provide public education to community residents, advocates, service providers and the general public.
Campaign 2000 is a national, non-partisan coalition of 120 national, provincial and community partner organizations working together to eradicate child and family poverty in Canada.
Family Service Toronto provides leadership and coordination for Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty in Canada and Ontario Campaign 2000.
Social Action ‘s work is focused on driving system-level change for more just and supportive communities at the local, provincial and national levels.
Poverty, marginalization and discrimination are at the root of the inequality that affects our communities. We work with diverse partners at the neighbourhood, city-wide, provincial and federal levels in coalitions and networks. We develop effective policy solutions, engage residents in leadership opportunities and provide public education to community residents, advocates, service providers and the general public.
Programs and Initiatives
Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty in Canada.
Campaign 2000 is a national, non-partisan coalition of 120 national, provincial and community partner organizations working together to eradicate child and family poverty in Canada.
Family Service Toronto provides leadership and coordination for Campaign 2000: End Child and Family Poverty in Canada and Ontario Campaign 2000.