What Goes on Behind the Red Door?
SInce 1982, the Red Door has provided a broad range of desperately needed
services. Through this support most residents are successful in regaining
their
status as contributing members of society. The shelter's guiding motto, which
was established when the shelter was founded is: "The Red Door Helps Those Who
Need Help to Help Themselves".
Families come to the Shelter through referral from agencies such as Children's
Aid Societies, Public Health Department, Police and other shelters.
Families also
access our services on the advice of friends or through word of mouth. Most
Families, given time and support, achieve independent living and return to the
mainstream of society within a period of five to six weeks. Circumstances
dictate the length of stay. Some families only remain overnight, while others
have lived at the shelter for four months.
A dictated and caring staff address the particular needs of the families in
crisis. The staff assist residents in setting achievable and meaningful goals,
thus instilling a sense of self-worth in both parent and child, and motivation
the residents to help themselves.
Who is the Red Door?
The Red Door provides 240 beds at three sites in Toronto for homeless families,
refugees,the elderly, abused women and their children and young mothers with
newborn babies. Services offered, in addition to short term emergency shelter,
include: crisis counselling, legal and immigration support, medical
assistance,
ESL classes, child care programs, housing referrals and other supports.
How does the Red Door Provide these Services?
The Red Door attempts to meet the needs of the total family by providing
intensive in-house crisis counselling and problem solving. This includes
referrals to specialized services in cases where the staff identifies abuse,
alcholism, depression, torture and parenting concerns. THe Shelter
partners with
the Public Health Department, Toronto Board of Education, community health
clinics, Children's Aid Societies, The Creche Child and Family Centre, Aisling
Discoveries Child and Family Centre, legal aid clinics, the Toronto Police
Services, Victim Services of Metropolitan Toronto and many other community
agencies.
Financial Information:
Per diem charges to government provide approximately 80% of the shelter's
operating costs. The balance is provided by the activities of an active and
enthusiastic fund raising committee. Management and administration
expenses make
up only 20% of the total operating costs.
Mission Statement:
The WoodGreen Red Door Family Shelter provides safe and supportive emergency
housing to individuals and families in need of refuge from domestic
violence and
to those who find themselves without accommodation. The Red Door assists
residents in their efforts to establish a stable life outside the shelter
through
education, counselling, community services and advocacy on their behalf.
