Impakt Foundation’s Shelter Hub Initiative
An upcoming centralized and innovative shelter hub in Toronto that empowers newcomers by fostering belonging, resilience, and economic self-sufficiency through participatory, innovative, and impactful collaboration and programming.
An Overlooked, Ever-Growing Issue:
Toronto's shelter system is under significant strain due to the housing affordability crisis and cuts to essential housing support programs.
The number of refugees seeking shelter has risen dramatically, with approximately 4,045 refugees residing in the city's shelters by December 2024, a sharp increase from about 500 in September 2021.
Fragmented support systems have created a disjointed experience for refugees, leading to prolonged uncertainty and dependency on temporary shelters.
After extensive research and consultations with newcomer communities, we are ready to take bold action.
We are embedding our support within shelters, meeting refugees exactly where they are and providing immediate assistance to address their most urgent needs:
Belonging
Family of Friends Program
Organizing a three-day camping retreat to strengthen relationships, promote team-building, and create a deeper sense of community and belonging.
Resilience
Collaborations
To foster resilience and break barriers, we navigate support systems for newcomers and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver resources to shelters tailored to refugees' cultural contexts.
Self-Sufficiency
Employment Programs
We provide personalized, one-on-one support, working closely with shelter caseworkers to create fair and fast opportunities for newcomers to secure meaningful jobs—ranging from entry-level roles to professional careers.
It Takes a Village!
At the Impakt Foundation, we believe that creating meaningful change requires collaboration, compassion, and the power of a united community. We invite you to join us in empowering refugees and newcomers through innovative, community-driven programs that truly make an impakt.
How You Can Get Involved
Donors: Want to go beyond giving money and see the impact firsthand? Be part of a “for newcomers by newcomers” initiative that ensures your contributions directly support community-based, life-changing programs. Connect with us to see how your generosity transforms lives!
Volunteers: Are you an experienced professional ready to share your expertise? Help newcomers in your field succeed by volunteering your time and skills. Together, we can strengthen professional communities and foster success.
Organizations: Are you a non-settlement organization aiming to reach refugees or a settlement agency seeking to expand your client base? Let’s partner to create a bigger impact and reach those who need us most.
Corporate Partners: Are you committed to building diverse, inclusive workplaces? Whether you need skilled professionals or reliable labour, we’ll connect you with a pipeline of talented, motivated individuals. Join us and demonstrate your commitment to fairness and inclusion!
Shelters: Feeling isolated and in need of holistic, embedded support? Let’s work together to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families transitioning to their new lives.
Let’s Work Together!
No matter how you’d like to get involved—donating, volunteering, partnering, or collaborating—you’ll be making a meaningful, lasting impact. Together, we can empower newcomers to thrive and create stronger, more inclusive communities.
Contact Us Today: Don’t wait—be part of the change!