Homes First Foundation

The Homes First Foundation, a registered Canadian charity, is dedicated to providing affordable and stable housing options along with comprehensive support services to combat homelessness. It primarily focuses on assisting individuals with the most complex needs, including those struggling with physical ailments, mental illness, substance use challenges, trauma, and chronic homelessness.

Background and Mission

Founded in 1983 as Homes First Society, the organization has evolved to become one of the largest providers of supportive housing in Toronto, specifically for individuals with limited housing options. Its mission is centered on the principle that housing is a fundamental right, and it aims to ensure that everyone has access to safe and stable living conditions.

Programs and Services

Homes First operates a range of services designed to support vulnerable populations:

• Housing Programs: The foundation provides both transitional and permanent housing solutions. It oversees multiple shelters and supportive housing sites throughout Toronto, offering accommodations to over 1,200 individuals, including seniors, families, and single adults.
• Critical Time Intervention (CTI): This program uses case management workers to help individuals adjust to long-term housing. CTI focuses on providing support during critical transition periods to ensure stability and reduce the likelihood of returning to homelessness.
• Support Services: Beyond housing, Homes First offers essential services such as meal programs, healthcare services, and community events to foster a supportive community environment.
• Follow-Up Worker Program: Designed to help clients transition into permanent housing and maintain housing stability over time.

Impact

In recent years, Homes First has reported notable successes in its efforts to address homelessness. In 2023, the organization assisted over 530 clients in transitioning to permanent housing. Its Critical Time Intervention Follow-Up program was instrumental in helping 152 individuals break the cycle of homelessness. The organization also achieved a 94% success rate in its eviction prevention efforts.

The impact of Homes First's work extends beyond the individuals it serves. The charity reports that its Follow-Up program can generate substantial annual cost savings for each client supported, ranging from $36,500 to $116,500. Additionally, it served nearly two million meals in 2023, underscoring its commitment to comprehensive support.

Financial and Operational Overview

As a financially transparent charity, Homes First ensures that a significant portion of its donations go directly toward supporting its programs. In the fiscal year ending in 2023, the charity spent $56 million on its programs. Despite its efforts, Homes First has a lower than average results reporting score according to some assessments.

Conclusion

The Homes First Foundation plays a vital role in addressing the complex issue of homelessness in Toronto. Through its housing programs and support services, it strives to create a more stable environment for vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of permanent housing as a foundation for rebuilding lives.