Every step of the way
Friends of Ruby is dedicated to providing services that are tailored to your needs. We will work with you every step towards achieving your goals and meeting your needs. Within our comprehensive framework we prioritize you and what is important to you. Through our services and programming we do our best to provide support around housing, food, physical and mental health supports, and social connection and community.
Mental Health Support
We know that asking for mental health support can be intimidating.
That is why every counsellor at Friends of Ruby is a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and adheres to a trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and anti-oppressive approach.
Our services encompass both individual counselling and group sessions, which can be conducted in-person, via video call, or over the phone.
Here are some of the things you might talk about with your counsellor:
- Relationship challenges
- Emotional dysregulation
- Building coping strategies
- The impacts of trauma
- Experiences of depression and anxiety
- Exploring gender identity and sexuality
- Disordered eating
For more information check-out Mental Health and Wellness and to speak to an intake worker, register online or visit the Friends of Ruby Drop-In Centre.
Drop-In Services and Programming
The Friends of Ruby Drop-In Centre at 70 Richmond Street East is a welcoming and supportive space in downtown Toronto for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth aged 16-29 to create community and access free resources and services.
Drop by and take part in:
- Accessing groceries
- Group programs to build mindfulness
- One-on-one sessions to build your resume or improve your study skills
- Games nights, movie nights, art activities, and more
We also have a computer lab with free Wi-Fi, phone and fax services, harm reduction kits (hormone injection kits, safer self-harm kits, safer sex kits, naloxone etc.), personal hygiene kits, a book library, seasonal clothing, laundry facilities, and much more.
This week’s drop-in hours:
- MON: 12:30PM-6:30PM
- TUE: 11:30AM-6:30PM
- WED: 12:00PM-6:30PM
- THU: 11:30AM-6:30PM
- FRI: 12:00PM-6:30PM
Case Management and Practical Support
Do you need help finding an affordable place to live or emergency housing, help with your resume, changing your ID, accessing gender affirming health support or getting a referral to an inclusive and accepting doctor? Friends of Ruby’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Case Workers understand the challenges you are facing and are ready to help.
You can meet with a case worker to help you develop life skills, reach your goals, and get the support you need. Case Management sessions can be conducted in-person, via video call, or over the phone.
Here are some of the things you might explore with your Case Manager:
- Immigration Process
- Advocacy
- Education
- Income such as Ontario Works (OW), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), and Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
- Transgender Supports
- Healthcare Supports
For more information check out see Case Management and to speak to an intake worker, register online or visit the Friends of Ruby Drop-In Centre
Housing
The Friends of Ruby Home is a transitional house built specifically for the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth who are at risk and need to find long-term, secure housing.
At the Friends of Ruby Home, you are a welcome part of a community, and friends are ready to celebrate who you are. We supply everything you need on your path towards independent and empowered living. More than a roof over your head, it is a place for you and your pet to call home.
While living at the Home, you can take part in programs about cooking, cleaning, financial literacy, and professional mentorships. You can also access free mental and physical health services like crisis intervention, counselling, health check-ups, and enjoy physical activities.
For Transitional Housing, our residents must be:
- A part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community
- Between the ages of 16 – 29
- An income below $2,916.67/month or $35,000/year *Before tax deductions
- Must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, have applied for Permanent Resident (PR) status, or be a refugee claimant or convention refugee. *Unfortunately, at this time, we are unable to accept international students or individuals in Canada on Work VISAs.
For information regarding your intake & application, please contact the intake coordinator or intake@friendsofruby.ca
For information regarding your application status following your intake, please contact forhouse@friendsofruby.ca
Get Involved
About Us
Friends of Ruby supports 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (aged 16-29) through mental health services, social services and housing. Our approach is comprehensive, involving mind, body and community – supporting youth wherever they are on their personal journey.
Donate
When you give to Friends of Ruby, you directly support essential services for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. We provide meals, groceries, community programming, practical supports and mental health services.
Volunteer
Volunteers are an essential part of our organization and support staff and youth in different capacities. As a volunteer you’d play a vital role in our mission, while gaining valuable experience and developing new skills.
Careers
Friends of Ruby has a passionate team whose personal and professional experiences strengthen our services. As a team member, you would partake in vital work with 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. We aim to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds and communities, recognizing their unique competencies, ideas and experiences.
News
Find out what’s new at Friends of Ruby.