Poverty/Social Justice

A Place Called Home (Local: Lindsay, ON)

Provides shelter and support for the homeless and disadvantaged. The organization serves single adults, couples, families and children. They provide 24-7 access in an empathetic and non-judgmental environment.

Access Pro Bono (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

Access Pro Bono promotes access to justice in BC by providing and fostering quality pro bono legal services for people and nonprofit organizations of limited means.

ACORN Canada (National: Vancouver, BC / Toronto, ON)

ACORN Canada is an independent national organization of low and moderate income families with 51,000+ members in 20+ neighbourhood chapters across seven cities. They believe that social and economic justice can best be achieved with a national active membership who are invested in their organization and focused on building power for change!

Action-Logement (Local: Ottawa, ON)

Provides necessary support services to individuals and families to ensure that each one can access adequate and affordable housing in a safe environment, while respecting their rights.

Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) (Regional: Toronto, ON)

The Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO)

works to better the housing situation of Ontario residents who have low incomes, including tenants, co-op members and people who are homeless.

Affordable Housing Halton (Local: Burlington, ON)

A nonprofit organization committed to the creation of affordable housing for low and modest income residents of Halton Region, and to alleviating poverty, homelessness, and the lack of affordable housing in the Halton community.

Against Hunger (National)

Against Hunger Canada is a nonprofit and very unique click to donate site which allows visitors to make a free donation simply by selecting a category of interest and then clicking to donate 5 cents to feed the hungry.

Ambrose Place (Local: Edmonton, AB)

Ambrose Place provides housing and support services to homeless individuals of Indigenous descent who have not been successfully housed in existing facilities. It provides safe affordable housing within a culturally sensitive environment and is a governed by an Indigenous world view of Natural Law.

Atira Women’s Resource Society (Local: Vancouver, BC)

Atira Women’s Resource Society is dedicated to supporting women and children affected by violence by offering safe and supportive housing and by delivering education and advocacy aimed at ending all forms of gendered violence.

Ausum Charity for Autism (Local: Mississauga, ON)

Our goal is to help Autistic children under age 18 from low-income families experience positive social and emotional development through the benefits of Intense Behavioural Intervention therapy (IBI therapy).

Baobab Inclusive Empowerment Society (Local: Surrey, BC)

Baobab Inclusive Empowerment Society aspires to facilitate integration built on trust, accountability, resilience, equality, and compassion to address the needs of the disempowered, with respect to all ethnicities and cultures in both local and global communities. We strive to empower vulnerable families and individuals with multiple barriers in our community through advocacy, education, dialogue, innovation, social responsibility and support for humanity.

B.C. Public Interest Advocacy Centre

BC PIAC is a legal advocacy organization which advances the interests of low-income and residential consumers in the regulation and deregulation of services. BC PIAC is also concerned with advancing the interests of disadvantaged groups in obtaining access to justice and equality before the law.

Basic Income Canada Network / Réseau canadien pour le revenu garanti (National)

Basic Income Canada Network / Réseau canadien pour le revenu garanti is a non-profit organization devoted to ensuring the wellbeing for all Canadians by eliminating poverty. Its goal for all Canadians is universal access to a guaranteed annual minimum income.

Benedict Labre House (Local: Montreal, QC)

A Home for the Homeless. We provide meals, clothing, laundry service and a resource centre, all free of charge. As a family, we help our guests move from a state dependence to independence, through respect and community.  

Bella Coola Community Support Society (Local: Bella Coola, BC)

The Bella Coola Community Support Society offers counselling and family enhancement programs, including a food bank. Their mission is to enhance the wellbeing of all residents of the Bella Cola Valley who are affected by, or are at risk of developing, personal problems. Their programs are collaborative with the other services in their community and compliment the aboriginal services provided by the local native band

Blankets for Canada (National: Lethbridge, AB)

Blankets for Canada is a non-denominational organization devoted to creating blankets for Canadians who need warmth. Blankets are knitted, crocheted, and quilted by crafters from across Canada. 

Blessing the Children Canada (International: Barons, AB)

This organization’s mission is to minister to the physical, mental, social, and spiritual needs of Ethiopian children. It is their belief that children must have their basic needs met in order to have improved economic opportunities and quality of life and, ultimately, to impact their community.

Bread of Life Ministries (Local: Halifax, NS)

A Christian ministry that operates a mobile soup kitchen called the “Street Connection”. The Street Connection has distributed food and clothing to low income families in the Halifax Regional Municipality of Nova Scotia since 1992. 

Brantford Welcome In Resource Centre (Local: Brantford, ON)

Brantford Welcome In operates a 36 bed emergency shelter and resource centre. They provide safe, comfortable accommodations for adults as well as laundry facilities, showers and light meals. Their Resource Centre provides information, training and support leading toward stable housing.

Break Free Family Centre (Regional: Etobicoke, ON)

This organization’s mandate is to provide care and counselling to youth, young offenders and the community at large, regardless of religious preferences, ethnic background, gender and race. Their goal is to teach and counsel individuals on how they can break the cycle of violence, addiction and self-destructive behaviours and become productive members of society.

The Brock Student Sexual Violence Support Centre (A Safer Brock) (Local: St. Catharines, ON)

This organization strives to make Brock and its community a safer place by providing non-judgemental support to anyone affected by sexual violence. They offer anonymous, confidential, and free support services, public education, resources, training, drop-in support, youth programs, workshops, and more.

Calgary Food Bank (Local: Calgary, AB)

We are the first line of emergency food support for families and individuals facing crisis. Once the food emergency is addressed, we refer clients to our partner agencies and programs to help address the root cause of their food insecurity.

Campus Food Bank (Local: Edmonton, AB)

A nonprofit organization that provides emergency food hampers, toiletries, referrals, and poverty advocacy referrals to any member of the University of Alberta community who is in need.

Canada Without Poverty (National: Ottawa, ON)

Canada Without Poverty (CWP) works to relieve poverty using a human rights approach that is rooted in recognized international law. Example initiatives include presentations to the United Nations, running online seminars on human rights education, co-leading the Dignity for All Campaign and speaking out against discrimination and stereotyping of people living in poverty.

Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies

CAEFS is a federation of autonomous societies which works with, and on behalf of, women involved with the justice system, particularly women in conflict with the law. Elizabeth Fry Societies are community based agencies dedicated to offering services and programs to marginalized women, advocating for legislative and administrative reform and offering fora within which the public may be informed about, and participate in, aspects of the justice system which affect women.

Council of Elizabeth Fry Societies of Ontario

 

Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa

 

Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver

 

Canadian Injured Workers Society (National: Saskatoon, SK)

The Canadian Injured Workers Society addresses unfairness in the workers compensation system in Canada. It promotes fair workplace injury compensation, addresses the mistreatment of injured employees, and voices their common concerns. It is a registered nonprofit society.

CanDonate Hair Foundation (Regional: Pierrefonds, QC)

Since 2005, The CanDonate Hair Foundation’s CanDonate Hair Program has been providing human hair wigs – for free – to children in Quebec who are suffering from cancer. The CanDonateHair Foundation is the only non-profit organization in Quebec authorized to accept hair donations. They also provide wigs to low-income adults.

Capuchin Outreach to the Poor (Parkdale)

A ministry of the Capuchin Franciscan friars running St.Francis Table non-profit restaurant and St. Clare Centre drop-in for the poor and marginalized of our community. Our vision is to create a community with the poor through direct services that enhance human dignity.

CARE Canada

CARE is Canada’s global force dedicated to defending dignity and fighting poverty by empowering the world’s most vulnerable and greatest resource for change: women and girls.

Centre for Community Based Research (Regional: Kitchener, ON)

The Centre for Community Based Research (CCBR) is focused on strengthening communities through social research. Founded in 1982, CCBR believes in the power of knowledge to impact positive social change. They are passionate about bringing people together to use knowledge to provide real and innovative solutions to community needs.

Centre for Conscious Awareness – Canada (National: Scarborough, ON)

Centre for Conscious Awareness – Canada is a registered charity dedicated to teaching meditation to the public and to making a meaningful contribution to the community. They support Canadian registered charities that seek to relieve poverty and preserve the environment.

Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation (CERA)

CERA was established to ensure that human rights protections in housing would be effective for low income households and to address systemic barriers to accessing affordable accommodation.

Centre for Social Justice

Conducts research and educational activities designed to strengthen the movement for social justice. It brings together people from the universities and unions, faith groups and other community organizations. Since it was founded in 1997, the Centre has focussed on issues such as economic inequality, corporate power and democratic alternatives.

Change for Children (International: Edmonton, AB)

Change for Children works in partnership with international communities struggling against poverty and injustice to find sustainable solutions that ensure access to basic needs, healthcare, and education. In Canada, CFCA operates a global education program.

The Children’s Book Bank (Local: Toronto, ON)

The Children’s Book Bank is a charitable organization designed to support children’s literacy by providing free books and literacy support to children in lower income neighbourhoods.

Circle Community LandTrust 

Citizens for Public Justice (CPJ) (National: Ottawa, ON)

Citizens for Public Justice is a national organization of members inspired by faith to act for justice in Canadian public policy. Our mission is to promote public justice in Canada by shaping key public policy debates through research and analysis.

City Kidz (Local: Hamilton, ON)

City Kidz is a nonprofit Christian organization that assists disadvantaged children living in the inner city. At City Kidz, the focus is on providing a fun, entertaining and exciting atmosphere that teaches positive attitudes and behaviours founded on Christian values and principles.

Community Empowerment Collective Society (International: Victoria, BC)

The society creates, edits, produces and distributes training material for community workers and their trainers and coordinators to encourage the empowerment of low income communities and assist them to move toward self-reliance and sustainable development, with a focus on least developed nations.

Community Legal Assistance Services for Saskatoon Inner City (CLASSIC) (Local: Saskatoon, SK)

The purpose of CLASSIC is to provide legal assistance to low-income, historically disadvantaged Saskatchewan residents (with particular attention to the needs of Aboriginal peoples) through a legal clinic that meets the needs of the community. This provides students with clinical experience, new insights into the social reality of law, and also fosters ethic of social justice and cultural understanding.

Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) (Regional: Toronto, ON)

CLEO strives to provide the information needed by low-income and disadvantaged people to understand and exercise their legal rights. It works with other community legal clinics and agencies to develop and distribute legal information that is accurate and accessible to communities across Ontario.

Community Mobile Soup Kitchens Inc. (Local: Moncton, NB)

Formed in 2001 by the food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters of Greater Moncton. Its mission is to share the bounty of the community with all those in need without question and without criticism.

CoRe Conflict Resolution Society (Local: Vancouver, BC)

The Society directs the CoRe Clinic, a student-run mediation clinic housed at UBC Faculty of Law. The CoRe Clinic provides affordable and pro bono mediation and conflict resolution services. CoRe aims to make consensual conflict resolution accessible to all.

C.O.R.E. Homeless Association (National: North Bay, ON)

A not-for-profit corporation dedicated to the establishment of better living standards for the homeless in Canada. It is our aim to fulfill the desperate need for adequate, affordable housing and for proper care for the homeless.

Church Council on Justice and Corrections (National: Ottawa, ON)

A national, ecumenical organization of faith communities and individuals advocating for healing justice. While its primary focus is criminal justice, this coalition knows its work is inextricably linked to human rights, healthy communities and social justice. Its resources, projects and messages embrace church, multi-faith and secular partners.

CRC Self-Help (Local: Toronto, ON)

The purpose of CRC Self Help is to provide stable, affordable, high quality housing, based on the principles of self-determination, dignity, full partnership and access to the wealth of resources and supports in the community.

Create Change Foundation (International: Robert’s Creek, BC)

Create Change Foundation is dedicated to grassroots initiatives that provide access to water and education for those living in poverty in the developing world. The organization documents all its work on film so supporters can witness the change created.

Credit Counselling Canada (CCC) (National)

Credit Counselling Canada is a national association of not-for-profit credit counselling agencies and Orderly Payment of Debt programs from all across Canada. They work together to increase consumer awareness of the available assistance programs and to develop a national standard in not-for-profit credit counselling.

Daily Bread (Local: Toronto, ON)

Daily Bread Food Bank serves people through neighbourhood food banks and meal programs in member agencies. Daily Bread is fighting hunger by providing food and resources, mobilizing greater community support, and creating social change through research, education, and advocacy.

The Depot Community Food Centre (Local: Montreal, QC)

The Depot Community Food Centre, formerly the NDG Food Depot, is a community-based nonprofit organization that works collaboratively with other community partners to address issues of food security in NDG and the surrounding areas.

Le Dépôt centre communautaire d’alimentation (Montreal, QC)

Le Dépôt centre communautaire d’alimentation, anciennement Dépôt alimentaire NDG, est un organisme communautaire à but non-lucratif qui travaille en collaboration avec d’autres partenaires communautaires pour s’attaquer aux enjeux de la sécurité alimentaire et réduire les difficultés de la pauvreté.

Dress Your Best (Local: Toronto, ON)

Dress Your Best’s mission is to contribute to the relief of poverty in the Greater Toronto Area. We see employment as the only permanent solution and we focus on helping individuals who are seeking jobs but cannot afford the appropriate work attire. In outfitting our clients with professional clothing, we help restore their sense of pride and establish themselves as contributing members of society.

Eden Community Food Bank (Local: Mississauga, ON)

Eden Community Food Bank is a community organization that works to eliminate hunger through food distribution to qualified individuals and families living in western Mississauga, as well as to provide education and advocacy services to clients and the general public.

Edmonton Social Planning Council (Local: Edmonton, AB)

The Edmonton Social Planning Council (ESPC) is an independent, nonprofit, charitable organization. Their focus is social research, particularly in the areas of low income and poverty. They provide leadership within their community by addressing and researching social issues, informing public discussion and influencing social policy.

End Poverty Now (National: Montreal, QC)

End Poverty Now is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the long-term struggle against abject poverty through the tri-pillars of education and information, lobbying, and grassroots development and redistribution.

Fair Trade Ottawa (International: Ottawa, ON)

Fair trade Ottawa is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run organization that seeks to promote the concept of fair trade through community outreach, and educational events in Ottawa. Their campaigns and events strive to move beyond the choices of the individual to affect the choices of a whole city.

FarmFolk/CityFolk

Strives to connect people and organizations through one of our most basic needs: food. We endeavor to reduce the distance between field and table; reintegrate urban and rural concerns and utilize a holistic approach to the regeneration of community.

Feed It Forward (Local: Toronto, ON)

Feed It Forward is a not-for-profit whose mission is to divert donated food from restaurants and industry providers. Instead of going into landfills, we have used the food to feed the vulnerable and at-risk communities across the greater Toronto area since 2014.

FEED NOVA SCOTIA (Metro Food Bank Society)

Our immediate goal is to feed hungry people. Our ultimate goal is to end chronic hunger and alleviate poverty in Nova Scotia.

Feed Ontario (Regional: Toronto, ON)

From securing fresh and healthy food sources, to driving change through policy research and innovative programming, Feed Ontario unites food banks, industry partners, and local communities in our work to end hunger and poverty.

First Stop Legal Centre (Local: Toronto, ON)

FIRST STOP LEGAL CENTRE is a full-service paralegal firm whose mission is to assist and/or represent low income individuals in the Province of Ontario to access legal services in Ontario Tribunals, Boards, Commissions and Small Claims Court.

Flowers for Food (F4F) (Local: Vancouver, BC)

Flowers for Food (F4F), as a charity, collects floral waste from major flower growers and distributors and delivers them to other charitable programs, services, and homeless persons who in turn use them on the streets in exchange for donations to eat and live.

Food Banks Alberta (Regional: St. Albert, AB)

Our mission is to provide a means whereby Alberta food banks share relevant information and resources.

Food Banks Canada (National: Toronto, ON)

Food Banks Canada is the national charitable organization representing the food bank community across Canada. Their members and their respective agencies serve approximately 85% of people accessing emergency food programs nationwide. Their mission is to meet the short term need for food and find long term solution to reduce hunger.

Fraser Region Community Justice Initiatives Association (Regional: Langley, BC)

The agency has more than 20 years of experience providing conflict resolution services within a restorative justice framework in such settings as the criminal justice system, workplace, community, institutions, organizations, churches, schools and businesses, and for private individuals. Its mission is to foster peacemaking and the resolution of conflict in the community through the development and application of restorative justice values, principles, and processes.

Fredericton Anti-Poverty Organization (Local: Fredericton, NB)

The Fredericton Anti-Poverty Organization provides numerous services to the community through its Anti-Poverty Distribution and Service Center. Services include providing free or low-cost clothing, furniture, appliances and bedding, as well as assisting families in emergency situations.

Galilee Centre (Regional: Arnprior, ON)

Galilee Centre’s mission is to provide an environment and programs and services that nurture people’s personal and spiritual growth, enabling them to contribute to a healthier world. Galilee is also the provider of the Spirituality & Social Justice Institute (SSJI) – a learning and retreat experience that encourages the deep transformation which allows participants to contribute to healing and renewal in themselves, each other and the earth.

Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard (Local: Ottawa, ON)

The Mission of the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard is to collect and distribute food products and other necessities of life for needy persons in Gloucester, to support and encourage reform and social change that would eliminate the need for emergency food assistance, and to treat all persons involved with the Food Cupboard with due respect and dignity regardless of gender, race, age, religion or sexual orientation.

Good Neighbours Club (Local: Toronto, ON)

A drop-in centre for homeless and marginally-housed men over the age of fifty struggling with poverty, social isolation, and health issues. The organization provides access to the men’s basic necessities as well as the support needed to get back on their feet.

Good Shepherd (Local: Hamilton, ON)

We are called to Never Stop Loving. Inspired by the Hospitality of St. John of God and rooted in Catholic teachings, Good Shepherd provides person-centres health, housing and human services.

Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society

The Greater Vancouver Food Bank provides direct assistance to over 9,000 people on a weekly basis. We are also helping thousands more with the food we provide to 133 local agencies, such as meal programs, soup kitchens, and missions. The areas served are Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, and the North Shore.

Greater Victoria Housing Society (GVHS) (Local: Victoria, BC)

Greater Victoria Housing Society (GVHS) is a registered charitable organisation that provides affordable rental housing for low to moderate income level seniors, adults with disabilities, families, working singles, and couples in our community.

GROW Community Food Literacy Centre (Local: Niagara Falls, ON)

GROW Community Food Literacy Centre is a registered charity in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Our goals are to assist and empower those with barriers to accessing and benefiting from good healthy food.

Habitat for Humanity

A non-profit organization that builds simple affordable housing. All homes are sold to families in need of adequate shelter, using no profit, interest free mortgages. Our mission is simple: to eliminate poverty housing and make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.

• Edmonton, AB
• Greater Toronto Area (GTA), ON
• Greater Vancouver, BC
• Halton Region, ON
• Huronia Region, ON
• Kingston, ON
• London, ON
• Mississauga, ON
• Montreal, QC
• National Capital Region
• Niagara Region, ON
• Saskatoon, SK
• Southern Alberta
• Waterloo Region, ON
• Windsor-Essex, ON
• York Region, ON

Habitat for Humanity Huronia (Local: Barrie, ON)

Habitat for Humanity is in the business of making decent homes affordable for people who may not otherwise be able to afford the costs associated with purchasing a new home. Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit and financed with affordable loans.

Hamilton Dream Center (Local: Hamilton, ON)

The Hamilton Dream Center is a charitable organization dedicated to helping low-income families and individuals living in Ward 3, a neighbourhood in downtown Hamilton with a high crime rate and more than its share of economic and social challenges. The vision of the Dream Center is to help change the destiny of the neighourhood by reaching out to its most vulnerable residents – the working poor and people on employment insurance benefits, welfare, or disability pensions.

Hamilton Victory Gardens (Local: Hamilton, ON)

The Hamilton Victory Gardens is a volunteer fuelled organization fighting to improve food insecurity. We convert donated, vacant land into flourishing organic vegetable gardens. All of the harvest is donated to local food banks to help improve access to healthy food in Hamilton, Ontario.

Heartwood Place (Local: Kitchener, ON)

A charitable organization committed to making a change in the local housing crisis in the Kitchener-Waterloo region by creating safe, affordable, and adequate housing.

HelpAge Canada (International: Ottawa, ON)

A non-denominational, nonprofit international development organization dedicated exclusively to assisting elderly people living in poverty in Canada and the developing world since 1975.

Hollyhock Leadership Institute (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

The Hollyhock Leadership Institute empowers current and emerging environmental and social change leaders through leadership and skills training that nurture creativity and spirit. We also offer convening and facilitating support to causes and organizations to help them increase their impact in the world.

HomeStart Foundation (Local: Vancouver, BC)

Furnishing homes to rebuild lives; a Christian humanitarian foundation providing furniture toÝpeople in need from all faiths, social and cultural backgrounds. We work with over 35 frontline organizations.

The Hope Centre (Local: Welland, ON)

Provides a full continuum of services and supports to individuals and families who are struggling with poverty related issues, including a 24-hour emergency shelter, hot lunches five days per week, adult-drop-in, and literary and basic skills upgrading.

HOPE International Development Agency (International: New Westminster, BC

Works with the poorest, hardest to reach people and communities in developing countries pursue self-reliance and self-determination through sustained access to clean water, food security, economic development, education and health care.

HOPE Outreach  (Regional: Westbank, BC)

HOPE Outreach helps vulnerable and at-risk women in the Okanagan in overcoming the challenges of exploitation, homelessness, addiction and sex-work by offering basic needs and resources to exit their present situation and discover a healthy, safe, and fulfilling lifestyle.

Horizon Housing Society (Regional: Calgary, AB)

Horizon Housing Society provides safe, affordable, and integrated housing to people in need. The society serves tenants with a variety of special needs, including mental illness, physical disability, families and seniors living below the poverty line, and the working poor.

House of Friendship (Regional: Kitchener, ON)

The mission of House of Friendship is to serve low income adults, youth and children in need of support and to promote opportunities for personal growth, wholesome relationships and community development through the application of holistic Christian principles.

Human Development Council (Local: Saint John, NB)

Social planning promotes a quality of life that creates a balanced community. The Human Development Council (HDC) promotes and co-ordinates social development in the Greater Saint John Area.

Immigrant Access Fund (IAF) (Regional: Calgary, AB)

This organization works to relieve poverty by providing micro-loans to needy immigrants in order to assist them in obtaining Canadian accreditation, upgrading, or training that will allow them to obtain employment in their specified field.

In Forma Theatre (Local: Toronto, ON)

An ensemble theatre company that creates and performs audience interactive shows which promote inclusive communities and social justice. IF Theatre uses popular theatre techniques to explore individual and community empowerment with the goal of creating visions of change.

Income Security Advocacy Centre (Regional: Toronto, ON)

The Income Security Advocacy Centre works with and on behalf of low income communities in Ontario to advocate for and seek legal remedies to address systemic issues and improve income security for people in the province.

Inn of the Good Shepherd (Local: Sarnia, ON)

The Mission of The Inn is to provide service with dignity to those in need of food and shelter. Services include a food bank, soup kitchen, rent/utility bank, emergency shelter, a youth emergency shelter, and a free clothing store.

Inner City Youth Development Association (Local: Edmonton, AB)

Inner City Youth Development Association is a registered charity located in Edmonton Alberta. We have offered educational programs (education and preventive social services) to Edmonton’s marginalized urban youth for over 25 years.

Inside the Dream (Local: Mississauga, ON)

This organization assists those graduates that may have economic difficulties to attend their prom by providing donated dresses and suits, accessories, makeup, shoes, and other needed items.

Inspirations Studio (Local: Toronto, ON)

Inspirations Studio is a women’s art entrepreneurial initiative that helps disadvantaged women supplement their income through the sale of their own handcrafted ceramic pottery, artwork, and original paintings. They also learn business skills to develop small businesses.

Inter Pares (International: Ottawa, ON)

Since 1975, Inter Pares has built relationships of common cause with activist groups around the world who share our analysis that poverty and under-development are caused by structural inequalities among and within nations, and who are working to promote social and economic justice in their communities and societies.

Interim Place (Local: Mississauga, ON)

Interim Place provides counselling, shelter, and community support and outreach programs that are responsive, reflective, and holistic for women and children experiencing and/or fleeing violence. Their programs focus on empowering, engaging, and building leadership and self-determination in women.

Joanne’s House Durham Youth Housing and Support Services (Regional: Ajax, ON)

Joanne’s Houseis the only youth shelter in Durham Region. They have 13 beds, provide meals and clothing, and also have a harm reduction co-ordinator and in-home school program. They provide a loving and compassionate home where youth can feel safe, and are valued and can get the help they need.

Jubilee Fund (Local: Winnipeg, MB)

An organization that works for social justice through ethical investing in projects that contribute to community development. The fund provides flexible financing in the form of loan guarantees for individuals and organizations who do not qualify for traditional financing. The fund has a history of support for projects such as affordable housing, worker co-ops, and nonprofit daycares.

Justice For Girls

Justice for Girls promotes support, justice, and equality for adolescent girls who have experienced violence and live in poverty. JFG is a social justice organization and thus promotes systemic change, with the feminist belief that young women in poverty are the experts of their own experience. It works to provide the support and resources that girls need to act on their own behalf in creating change in their lives.

KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives (International: Toronto, ON)

A partnership of 11 Canadian churches and church organizations dedicated to social justice in Canada and worldwide. With southern partners and 100 local groups, KAIROS advocates for economic and ecological justice, human rights, Aboriginal rights, and the rights of refugees.

Kanata Food Cupboard (Local: Kanata, ON)

Our primary mission is to collect and distribute food products to self-identifying individuals (living in the former city of Kanata)

requiring emergency food service.

Law Students’ Legal Advice Program (Local: Vancouver, BC)

LSLAP is a nonprofit society run by law students at the University of British Columbia. They provide free advice and representation to clients who would otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance. Clinics are located throughout the Greater Vancouver Regional District.

LifeCorps International (International: Richmond Hill, ON)

A Canadian charity providing relief from poverty, supporting sustainable development, and elevating the standard of living for those in need, regardless of race, gender, or religious background within Canada and the world at large.

LifePaths Global Alliance (International: London, ON)

LifePaths Global Alliance is committed to serving socially disadvantaged communities in the Caribbean, Central America, and within Ontario. Their mission is to educate, empower, and eradicate poverty through local initiatives. LifePaths Global Alliance is a charitable nonprofit organization.

Live Well Community Church (Local: Tiddville, Nova Scotia)

Our primary community mission is food security and poverty. We live in rural Nova Scotia where poverty and food insecurity is 1 in 3 households. We provide free weekly meals and  bi-weekly food boxes to seniors and other low income individuals/ families with children. We are provide free credit counseling to improve credit scores.

The Local Charity (Local: Toronto, ON)

The Local Charity believes in inspiring people to do the things that inspire them. Their mission is to enrich the lives of the children and women.

Lookout Emergency Aid Society (Local: Vancouver, BC)

A nonprofit, charitable organization providing nonsectarian lay services to adult men and women who cope with a wide variety of challenges including mental illness, mental handicaps, medical problems, physical disabilities, social dysfunctions, substance abuse or – more frequently – a combination of issues. The organization operates several emergency housing shelters.

McLaren Housing Society (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

McLaren Housing Society believes that housing is health. We are a nonprofit organization that provides safe, affordable housing to men, women and families in British Columbia who live with HIV/AIDS, are in financial need and yet are able to live independently.

Mannkind Charitable Society (International: Vancouver, BC)

Mannkind Charitable Society invests in solutions that help turn orphaned children into self-sustaining, inspirational agents of change for their community, both here in Canada and around the world.

Metro Community Housing Association (Regional: Halifax, NS)

Metro Community Housing Association is a nonprofit, community-based agency providing support and residential services to persons who have experienced mental health difficulties.

Micro-Recyc-Cooperation (International: Montreal, QC)

A social economy organization that collects used computers and accessories from communities in Canada, in order to give them a second life in developing countries, while also providing training to young Montrealers.

Organisme d’économie sociale solidaire qui recueille du matériel informatique (ordinateurs et pièces) au Canada pour leur donner une seconde vie dans les pays pauvres tout en offrant aux jeunes adultes Montréalais un milieu de stage en emploi.

Mill Centre (The) (Local: Toronto, ON)

A woodshop that produces handcrafted unique quality wood products at reasonable prices. These products are made by people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The centre supports the participants to develop both technical and social skills and provides them the opportunity to earn an income.

Mississauga Food Bank (Local: Mississauga, ON)

The Mississauga Food Bank sources, warehouses and distributes two million meals each year via its 110 partner agencies, feeding 65,000 people each month.

Mom God and Me

Mom God and Me create affordable homeownership and housing opportunities through innovative partnerships and initiatives that build healthy, vibrant families across Southwestern Ontario. The organization is specially committed to improving the quality of life for single mother families that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Moorelands Community Services (Local: Toronto, ON)

Established in 1912, Moorelands works with Toronto children and youth affected by poverty, to provide them with positive and fun experiences to help strengthen their confidence and competence, build character and make positive connections with peers, adults and communities.

Moose Jaw & District Food Bank (Regional: Moose Jaw, SK)

Serving Moose Jaw and surrounding rural communities since 1984, our food bank is dedicated to redistributing donated and surplus food to individuals and families in need, as well as supplying other local charities working to end hunger in our community.

More than a Roof (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

More Than a Roof is a housing provider, advocate and resource group for people affected by low incomes and housing needs. They seek to bring assistance, hope and meaning to these people’s lives through the provision of secure affordable housing.

Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold (Regional: Richmond Hill, ON)

Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold (MIOTC) provides emergency shelter and support services to the homeless in partnership with various inter-faith communities in York Region. This is a unique program bringing together different faith groups and utilizing over 1,200 volunteers to serve the homeless and others in need. Each winter, over 500 individuals are provided with warm shelter, food, clothing, medical care, shower facilities, transportation, and support services.

Multifaith Housing Initiative (Regional: Ottawa, ON)

The mission of the Multifaith Housing Initiative is to provide and to promote affordable home space, to encourage harmonious relations amongst tenants of diverse backgrounds, and to mobilize the resources of faith communities and others for these purposes.

Mustard Seed (Local: Edmonton, AB)

Dedicated to meeting the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of Edmonton’s inner city residents through free hot meals, coffee, food hampers, community drop-in, distribution of clothing and household items, Bible studies, and chapel services.

Mustard Seed Street Ministry (The) (Local: Calgary, AB)

A nonprofit, Christian humanitarian organization that responds compassionately to the needs of the inner city’s less fortunate through mobilizing and working with the church and the community.

Na-Me-Res (Local: Toronto, ON)

In 1985, Na-Me-Res began offering emergency shelter to Toronto-based Aboriginal men who were without a place to live. Today, the Na-Me-Res Housing initiatives include A 69-bed emergency shelter at Bathurst St. and St. Clair Ave. West, Sagatay, a nationally-recognized transitional housing program; and O’Gitchidaa Mushkiki Wigwam, a long-term independent housing initiative. Programming has also evolved to include: cultural connection and identity such as a sweat lodge, hand drumming, and traditional teachings; a Medicine Wheel Garden at Hillcrest Park; Elder outreach for street homeless men to connect with their culture; life skills workshops on healthy living, literacy, financial literacy, and employment; and more.

NewStart Institute (International: Ottawa, ON)

NewStart Institute offers free post-secondary online diploma programs in business subjects, such as accounting and office administration, for underpriviledged adults worldwide.

North Hastings Community Trust (Local: Bancroft, ON)

The North Hastings Community Trust provides low-income families, individuals and children with emergency financial assistance and community referrals. Items covered may include rent, heat, hydro, groceries, medical expenses, and other items as deemed appropriate on a case by case basis.

 

On-Track Career & Employment Services (Local: Scarborough, ON)

On-Track Career & Employment Services is equipped to help job seekers find and sustain employment. Through their employment and training network, they will help you build your career. They are your one-stop source for information about jobs, job search skills, training, education, and other services.

One Step Shoe Recycling (Regional: Newfoundland)

One Step Shoe Recycling is a registered nonprofit organization in Newfoundland and Labrador. Their mission is to encourage the benefits of sustainable consumerism and to aid those in need across the province.

Ontario 211 (Regional: Sault Ste. Marie, ON)

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services is a non profit corporation with a mandate to provide safe and affordable housing to urban and rural First Nation, Inuit and Métis people living off-Reserve in Ontario. Our vision is to lead the design, development and delivery of a sustainable and culturally appropriate continuum of housing that promotes excellence in the community and organizational infrastructures.

Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP) (Regional: Toronto, ON)

OCAP is an anti-poverty organization that mounts campaigns against regressive government policies as they affect poor and working people. In addition, they provide direct-action advocacy for individuals struggling to get the services they are entitled to.

Ontario Council for International Cooperation (OCIC)

OCIC members include development NGOs with overseas programming, volunteer-sending organizations, solidarity groups, global education centres, faith organizations as well as networks and individuals working in international cooperation and global education.

Our Place (Peel) (Regional: Mississauga, ON)

Our Place (Peel) is a registered nonprofit agency founded in 1985 with a mandate to develop and operate emergency shelter and residential services for disadvantaged and homeless youth 16 to 21 years of age in the Peel Region. 

Pacifica Housing (Regional: Victoria, BC)

Pacifica Housing is a registered Canadian charity whose mission is to be a leading innovative provider of affordable homes and support services that contribute to the independence of individuals and families. We believe in “housing first”: helping people find safe, secure and permanent housing, so that health, family and other personal matters can then be addressed. We work to break the cycle of homelessness by enabling families and single adults to achieve permanent housing so they can live with dignity, safety and stability.

Parkdale Activity Recreation Centre (PARC) (Local: Toronto, ON)

PARC addresses poverty, mental health, addictions, homelessness and food insecurity through four key service areas: a drop-in centre, peer-support. outreach program and supportive housing. PARC is also a meeting place for agencies and partners working towards lasting social change.

Parkdale Community Legal Services

Parkdale Community Legal Services delivers poverty law services to low-income residents of Toronto’s Parkdale area, covering a wide variety of subject areas, including: social assistance; workers’ rights; tenants’ rights; immigration and refugee claims; mental health law; and domestic violence issues.

Parker Street Food & Furniture Bank (Local: Halifax, NS)

Providing food, furniture, household items, clothing and emergency funding to low-income families in metro Halifax since 1983. Parker Street also hosts NS Community College accredited computer skills courses and vocational training (flooring installation and automotive inventory).

Pencils for Kids (International: Markham, ON)

Pencils for Kids strives to give every child the opportunity to dream. As a not for profit grass roots organization, they believe in the power of creating connections through small scale projects. Pencils for Kids focuses on one community at a time lifting children from poverty through education.

Planeterra Foundation (International: Toronto, ON)

The Planeterra Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of community projects, local organizations, and international charities. The foundation was developed by G.A.P Adventures, a Canadian adventure travel company that offers environmentally, culturally and socially responsible tours worldwide.

Poverty Reduction Coalition (Local: Calgary, AB)

The Poverty Reduction Coalition is a United Way of Calgary and Area initiative directed by community leaders. The coalition believes there is a role for everyone in identifying and implementing solutions and they work together to reduce poverty through research, pilots and public education.

Pro Bono Law Ontario (PBLO) (Regional: Toronto, ON)

PBLO brokers partnerships and provides strategic guidance, training, and tailored technical assistance to groups, law firms, law associations, etc. that are dedicated to addressing the legal needs of low-income and disadvantaged individuals as well as the communities and charitable organizations that serve them.

Project Harvest – Proyecto Cosecha (International: Fonthill, ON)

Project Harvest – Guatemala empowers rural families through training in food security and women’s leadership.  It is an integrated program focused on gardens, rainwater harvesting, organization and training that increases access to healthy food, improved nutrition, and families’ well-being.

Project Homeless Foundation (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

Research, education, and social services are the foundation of our mission, which is to provide the necessary instruments for the homeless and their plight.

Project S.H.A.R.E. (Local: Niagara Falls, ON)

A nonprofit organization committed to serving the less-fortunate residents of Niagara Falls in regard to emergency food and housing issues.

Prosper Canada (National)

Founded in 1986, Prosper Canada is a national charity dedicated to expanding economic opportunity for Canadians living in poverty through program and policy innovation. As Canada’s leading national champion of financial empowerment, we work with governments, businesses, and community groups to develop and promote financial policies, programs and resources that transform lives and foster the prosperity of all Canadians. Our aim is to ensure that all financially vulnerable Canadians have access to the financial policies, programs, products and advice they need to build their financial wellbeing. 

Quest Outreach Society (Local: Vancouver, BC)

Quest Outreach Society is B.C.’s only food exchange and we divert 6.6 million pounds of surplus food from landfills each year, which adds up to $7 million worth of food. Our mandate is to rescue food and reduce hunger. We fill, and then empty our 575-m2 warehouse each day, providing food to hundreds of social service agencies in the region feeding 50,000 people a month.

Ray of Hope (Regional: Kitchener, ON)

Our mission is to demonstrate the love of Christ to those who are disadvantaged, marginalized and/or in conflict with the law. We work to rehabilitate young offenders in our custody facilities, provide basic needs of people in poverty at our drop-in centre, and help people escape poverty through employment training.

Regesh Family & Child Services (Local: Toronto, ON)

Regesh Family & Child Services helps at-risk youth and their families in the GTA with a drop in centre at Willowdale and Sheppard, Individual and Family Counselling, Anger Management and a residential safe house in Thornhill. As a result of a federal grant from the Department of Justice, they also work with youth in schools in Scarborough.

Regina & District Food Bank (Local: Regina, SK)

The Regina Food Bank is a charitable, community-based organization working to eliminate hunger through nutritious food distribution, education, and advocacy in cooperation with the community.

Regina Education and Action on Child Hunger (REACH) (Local: Regina, SK)

REACH supports child nutrition programs and provides seniors, shut-ins, healthcare clients, social assistance recipient families and others with easy access to safe, nutritious and affordable food through healthy food programs.

Regina Indian Community Awareness Inc. (Local: Regina, SK)

Established in 1985, this organization runs the Chili for Children program, which provides hot lunches three days per week to over 500 school children. They also offer basic food bank referral services to needy families, provide Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners to children and their families, and are working to expand their services to other areas including parenting skills, life skills, and employment placement.

Restore International Foundation (International: Ontario)

Restore International Foundation provides medical care to those with limited or no access to health services while promoting health education globally. We also aim to alleviate poverty and support education for those in need.

RESULTS Canada

Democracy in action! RESULTS Canada involves citizens lobbying their elected representatives to create the political will to end hunger, eliminate poverty and create a better world. Established in Canada in 1986, RESULTS is active in eight provinces and is the only national network of grassroots action groups dedicated exclusively to reforming Canada’s foreign aid policy.

Richmond Poverty Response Committee (Local: Richmond, BC)

A nonprofit organization made up of individuals and agencies working together to address and deal with issues that affect low-income residents living in Richmond, BC. The committee consists of three major task groups: food securities, affordable housing, and gift giving/access to recreation. They also provide a virtual place for individuals to post items they would like to donate.

ROOF (Reaching Our Outdoor Friends) Agency (Regional: Kitchener, ON)

ROOF is committed to providing for the safety, support, and overall well-being of homeless youth and youth-at-risk, age 12-25, in the Waterloo Region. Our objective is to maintain the health and safety of street youth, by providing resources and services that will allow them to make positive choices to end the cycle of homelessness.

St. Thomas Elgin Safe Communities (Local: St. Thomas, ON)

A nonprofit coalition dedicated to making St.Thomas Elgin a safer community to live in. They accomplish this through crime prevention, workplace, senior, farm, and road safety programs.

Sault Ste. Marie Soup Kitchen Community Centre

A community meeting place with a safe, friendly and supportive atmosphere for the many children, youth, underemployed men and women and elderly who frequent the centre.

Second Harvest (Local: Toronto, ON)

Every day, Second Harvest picks up donated fresh food and distributes it to 129 social service programs in Metro Toronto in order to assist people who would otherwise go hungry. Our goal is that no one need ever go hungry in the communities we serve.

Share the Warmth

A registered, not for profit charity that purchases heat and energy on behalf of families, seniors, chronically ill and disabled persons living at or near the poverty level.

shelterlink (Local: Stratford, ON)

Stratford/Perth Shelterlink exists to provide Perth County youth ages 16-24, who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, with shelter, advocacy services and basic needs. By providing homeless and at-risk youth with food and shelter, they will have more opportunities to make good lifestyle choices, stay in school, find employment or access counselling.

Shepherds of Good Hope (Local: Ottawa, ON)

Shepherds of Good Hope is the largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to the needs of the homeless and impoverished in the city of Ottawa. Over 1600 people come through our doors each day, visiting our soup kitchen, clothing or grocery program, while others receive services from one of our specialized support programs. Over 500 people sleep in one of our 8 facilities across the city every night.

Siloam Mission (Local: Winnipeg, MB)

A connecting point between the compassionate and Winnipeg’s less fortunate, Siloam Mission is a Christian humanitarian agency offering programs and services at no charge to those experiencing homelessness.

Snowsuit Fund (The) (Local: Ottawa, ON)

An Ottawa-based charity that raises funds for the purchase and distribution of snowsuits to needy children, aged 15 years and younger, in Ottawa/Gatineau.

Southern & Central Alberta Food Bank Federation (Regional: Calgary, AB)

We support food banks in achieving their mission to feed the hungry in their local communities through sharing information and resources between food banks.

South Fraser Women’s Services Society (Regional: Surrey, BC)

South Fraser Women’s Services Society formed in 1979. We are a nonprofit women’s centre, providing free services and support to women and children from all backgrounds. We work to help women empower themselves through support, information, resources and counselling.

St. Clare Inn (Local: Toronto, ON)

St. Clare Inn provides community, care, and shelter for homeless women aged 35 – 60 with mental health issues, to support their healing journey.

The Stop Community Food Centre (Local: Toronto, ON)

The Stop works to increase access to healthy food in a manner that maintains dignity, builds community and challenges inequality. Our community food centre approach melds respectful emergency food delivery with community development, social justice and environmental sustainability.

S.W.A.P. Team (Local: Montreal, QC)

The S.W.A.P. Team is the creator of Take Off Your Clothes, a giant public clothing swap event providing the public with a low-cost and fun forum to recycle their unwanted clothing. Clothing leftover from the swap is donated to partner charity The Salvation Army.

Ten Thousand Villages (International)

Ten Thousand Villages is a nonprofit Fair Trade Organization (FTO). They market products from handicraft and agricultural organizations based in low-income countries, providing consumers with products that have been fairly purchased from sustainable sources.

Threshold Housing Society (Local: Victoria, BC)

Threshold provides transitional housing to youth aged 16-22 who are at-risk of being homeless. Threshold exists to serve youth from across Vancouver Island through a program towards independence. Providing programming, housing, positive role models and constructive support that help youth in our community navigate the challenges of school, work, relationships and life.

Union Gospel Mission (Regional: Vancouver, BC)

Union Gospel Mission is a nonprofit urban relief organization that reaches out to the hungry, hurting, and homeless. With locations throughout Metro Vancouver and the city of Mission, they have a comprehensive range of life-changing programs and services that offer hope and help while creating brighter futures for men, women, and children.

Unity Centre of Edmonton (Local: Edmonton, AB)

Our mission is to strengthen and encourage the development of healthier families and individuals by providing low-cost or free preventative, educational and recreational programs in a safe, caring and inviting environment.

Up With Women (National)

Up With Women is dedicated to helping recently homeless and at-risk women to both rebuild their lives and build sustainable, prosperous careers and businesses with the aim of permanently exiting poverty. Our roster of volunteer professional coaches guide women as they strive for their goals.

V.E.T.S. (National: Halifax, NS)

V.E.T.S. works to provide assistance to homeless and at risk veterans. Currently they act as a bridge, assisting veterans in accessing appropriate supports and services as they pursue their goal of transitional housing for veterans experiencing difficulties.

Victoria Cool Aid Society (Local: Victoria, BC)

This organization acts to end homelessness by working in partnership with others to develop community-based solutions. They are committed to working in a non-judgmental way with adults experiencing marginalization in Greater Victoria by advocating for and providing emergency shelter, supportive housing, integrated health care, and other support services.

Victoria Street Newz (Local: Victoria, BC)

Victoria Street Newz is an independent and reliable print media alternative that prints on 100% recycled paper and does not accept any government or corporate funding. They are working to end poverty and homelessness, with papers sold by low income individuals on the streets of Victoria.

Waupoos Foundation (Local: Ottawa, ON)

Waupoos provides opportunities for families in need to enjoy a holiday together as a family unit, away from the stress and busy pace of day to day living.

Wee Gates (National: Erin, ON)

Since 1986, Wee Gates has been dedicated to supporting children and the environment through the sale of meaningful and unique corporate gifts, all designed and created in Canada. Wee Gates stresses the importance of personal contribution, both individual and corporate.

Welcome Hall Mission (Local: Montreal, QC)

This organization provides meals, clothing, lodging, food assistance, counselling, dental and health services as well as rehabilitation and social reintegration for men, women, children and teens. They help the most disadvantaged find better opportunities in order to break the cycle of poverty.

Western Canada Society to Access Justice

Access Justice provides free legal counsel to Western Canadians unable to afford a lawyer themselves and who do not qualify for Legal Aid. Individuals earning less than $2,700 net per month may apply for help. Our goal is to provide first-class legal assistance to Western Canadians who cannot afford a lawyer.

Windfall Clothing Service (Local: Toronto, ON)

Windfall’s mission is to provide new, donated clothing (at no cost) to people living in poverty or crisis, resulting in a boost to their self-esteem and increased opportunities for improving their lives.

Winnipeg Harvest (Local: Winnipeg, MB)

Winnipeg Harvest is a non-profit, community-based organization that collects and shares surplus food with people who are hungry.

Woodwynn Farms (Local: Saanichton, BC)

Woodwynn Farms is a 193-acre therapeutic community where formerly homeless individuals develop skills and rebuild their lives within a structured, long-term (3-5 years) residential program. Woodwynn’s aim is to help participants reach their true potential.

Work of Your Hand International Development (International)

Work of Your Hand is a nonprofit organization working to raise dignity and self-worth in impoverished artisans overseas and provide them work that pays fair wages.

Workers’ Action Centre (Local: Toronto, ON)

The Workers’ Action Centre is a worker-based organization committed to improving the lives and working conditions of people in low-wage and unstable employment. It aims to sure that workers have a voice at work and are treated with dignity and fairness.

World Inter-Action Mondiale (WIAM) (International: Ottawa, ON)

With a focus on youth, WIAM builds awareness and involvement on social justice issues, both north and south, through the use of film, radio, and the Internet.

World Literacy of Canada

Promotes international development and social justice in South Asia and Canada through the funding of community based programs that emphasize literacy and nonformal education. Particular attention is given to the needs of disadvantaged women.

World Organization of Natural Medicine (WONM)

Foundation Canada (International: Scarborough, ON)

WONM Foundation Canada is a nonprofit, non-governmental, politically and religiously neutral organization that provides guidance and education on natural self care and traditional natural healthcare to the poor.

Yonge Street Mission (Local: Toronto, ON)

Since 1896, Yonge Street Mission has helped families, seniors, socially isolated adults, homeless street youth and children living in poverty in downtown Toronto. Services include employment and computer training, a food bank, meals, counseling, camps and Christmas assistance.

York Region Food Network (Regional: Newmarket, ON)

York Region Food Network offers programs, raises awareness, and promotes policy changes for increased access to affordable and nutritious food produced within a sustainable food system. Their vision is “Food for Health – Food for All”.

YWCA Niagara Region (Regional: St. Catharines, ON)

The YWCA Niagara Region provides shelter, food and assistance to women and families in poverty. They are committed to social change and work to create a community that supports women in need, providing support through each step towards independent living.

Youth Haven Barrie (Local: Barrie, ON)

Youth Haven is a nonprofit, Christian organization that operates a youth emergency hostel. Youth Haven offers shelter, food, and a place for spiritual, educational, and vocational counseling. When necessary, they act as a liaison between the youth and their families and various social agencies.