About YWS

Our Mission

Empowering youth facing homelessness to reach individual potential.

Vision

Ending homelessness…one youth at a time, one step at a time.

History

Youth Without Shelter – commonly known as ‘YWS’ – is a charity offering shelter and support for youth facing homelessness in the GTA. Since our founding in 1986, when a group of teachers came together to create a safe place for youth after seeing the need within their classrooms, we have been providing client-focused services in a non-judgmental environment for youth aged 16 – 24. Located in North Etobicoke, we are a house where a youth’s culture and needs are understood, and where each youth can receive shelter, one-on-one guidance, mental health and wellness supports, and training, through our wrap-around model of programming. All operations are trauma-informed and designed to build self-esteem and resiliency, and focus on personal strengths. Together, with our experienced team of staff, we recognize the individual needs of each youth we serve, and empower them to discover their own unique path out of homelessness, and to live responsibly and independently within our society.

Learn more about YWS

Vist yws.on.ca to learn more about how we help homeless youth.

About YWS Gifts

Our gift catalogue allows you to impact the lives of our youth in ways that mean the most to them. From program specific gifts, such as career coaching and tutoring sessions for our Stay in School residents, to wrap around supports such as counselling sessions and art therapy, you are supporting youth while giving a special gift to a loved one. All gifts receive a tax receipt for the full value of the gift.