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Hi, my name is Eric, and I am an alcoholic. It wasn’t always like this though.
I was born in Jamaica and moved to Canada in 1993. I met a girl here. We became a couple and over time we had a couple of daughters. I wanted a career, so I enlisted with the Military – the Army.
I became a vehicle technician. Then I made my first mistake. I carried marijuana through Pearson Airport and was caught.
I didn’t want to be dishonorably discharged from the military, so I resigned. I regret that decision to this day.
I started piecing my life back together, but then my brother came to visit. He overstayed his visa and started getting in trouble with the law. He used my ID, so the police thought it was me. I was arrested. Because I had an earlier offence, I was deported back to Jamaica.
Back home I was a pariah, a failure. I ended up living on the beach. One night, I got attacked. I grew very depressed about how far I had fallen.
Fortunately, I was still in contact with my partner. In 2011, we met up in Trinidad and got married. She went back to Canada, and I wanted to follow, but I had to get a pardon first, which took 3 years.
When I got back to Canada, I was so happy to be reunited with my family. But we had been apart for so long that my daughters didn’t know who I was. The rejection by my children hit me hard and I took up drinking to cope. I had always been a casual drinker, but now I was a drunk, just like my own father. Because of my drinking my wife kicked me out of the house, I had nowhere to go, so I ended up in a shelter in Scarborough.
I knew I was addicted to alcohol, so I went through detox. But when I was released, I just went back to my old drinking ways. For many, many years — more than 7 times — I went from homeless shelter to detox back to homelessness.
Then there was a magical 14-month period. It was amazing. I was clearheaded, I felt good. I reconnected with my children. We spent the weekends together making up for lost time. I even got a job, a good, unionized job as a heavy equipment operator.
Life was good, but then my sister died. I used her death as an excuse to resume my drinking. I fell hard, and lost everything – my apartment, my job, my children, all hope…and I became homeless again.
I was back to living on the street, just trying to survive, and it was tough. I had heard about Good Shepherd, so I made my way to the shelter, and they took me in.
While here I met Mike from the DARE program, he’s a very good man. He got me into a 7-day detox program, and when that finished, I was admitted into the DARE program.
DARE is just what I need. It gives me structure, I do chores, I’m busy all day long.
Because of everything that I’ve been through – being homeless, being deported, my experiences back in Jamaica, I have PTSD and have trouble sleeping.
I’ve promised myself that this will be my last rodeo, that I’ll give up the booze for good, because I know that if I don’t that I will die. I want to get my family back, but I have to stay sober before that can happen. I have a grandson now, but my daughter won’t let me see him because I’m a drunk.
I’m thankful to be in treatment now, but my greatest worry is what happens after it’s done? Where will I go after it’s over? Good Shepherd has told me I can stay here, but I can’t work if I live here.
Becoming homeless again is one of my biggest worries. I’m just taking it one day at a time!
Since he told his story, Eric has been housed thanks to the services for Veterans at Good Shepherd. He continues to work on his recovery.
Please make a donation so that Good Shepherd can continue to provide support to people in need such as Eric.
RENEWAL AND HOPE
Executive Director’s message
Your generosity makes new beginning possible
As we celebrate this Easter season, a time of renewal and hope, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to Good Shepherd’s benefactors, funders and volunteers. Your generosity continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those we serve at Good Shepherd, and we could not be more thankful for your partnership.
Easter reminds me that hope can come in many forms. Sometimes it’s as simple as a warm cup of coffee, a nourishing meal, or a safe bed for the night. Other times, it’s the chance for a fresh start—helping someone rebuild their life and reclaim their dignity.
As you read the story of Eric, a participant in our DARE program and a Veteran, you will see first-hand the difference your support has made. Eric came to us facing immense challenges, and through your generosity, he found not only the immediate care he needed, but also the tools and support to change his future. His journey is a testament to the power of compassion and the incredible impact of your contribution.
This Easter, I am reminded that every act of kindness, no matter how big or small, is a step toward renewal and new beginnings. Thank you for joining us and the people we serve. Your continued support gives us the ability to offer hope, compassion, and hospitality to those who need it most.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Easter season, filled with care and compassion.
Aklilu Wendaferew, MSW, RSW
Executive Director
Hospitaller Order of St. John of God visit Pope Francis
On Saturday, 11 January 2025, Pope Francis welcomed and greeted the Brothers of the new and outgoing General Council of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God. The meeting was held in a room adjoining the Paul VI Hall in a climate of fraternity and familiarity.
The two Councils were meeting in Rome to reflect on the challenges facing the Order and to plan for the next six years. The Holy Father briefly exchanged greetings with each of the Brothers, and the Superior General, Brother Pascal Ahodegnon, presented the Holy Father with the book on the Bull Licet ex debito. The Pope, as is his custom, asked the Brothers to pray for him.
Mathias Place: Affordable Housing for Seniors Moving Forward!
Good Shepherd is thrilled to announce that Mathias Place, a 95-unit affordable housing development for senior (55+) men and women with a history of homelessness, is moving forward! After years of planning and advocacy, Good Shepherd is set to break ground in spring 2025.
This project is a critical step toward our vision of ending chronic homelessness by providing safe, stable housing combined with 24-hour on-site support services to help residents live in dignity. Seniors who have experienced homelessness often face complex health and social challenges, and Mathias Place will ensure they receive the care, connection, and stability they deserve.
Mathias Place is designed as more than just housing—it will be a community where residents can age in place with access to essential resources. Thoughtfully planned common areas, accessible design, and wraparound supports will foster security, connection, and hope.
As we prepare for construction, we invite individuals, businesses, and organizations to be part of this transformative project. There are many ways to support the campaign, including donations, sponsorships, and naming opportunities. Your support will directly affect the lives of 95 seniors, offering them a new beginning in a home they can call their own.
If you’re interested in learning more or contributing, please reach out to Adrienne at 416-869-3619 ext. 223 or [email protected]. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure that no senior is left without a home.
Keeping Seniors Thriving at St. Joseph’s Residence
What would you do if you faced surgery or an unexpected fall, with no one to care for you?
Thanks to your incredible support, two seniors at St. Joseph’s Residence – one facing eye surgery, the other bedridden with a fracture — found comfort and care. Your generosity ensured that these frail seniors – who once experienced homelessness – received the care and support they needed to recover with dignity.
Your kindness has a direct impact on the lives of eight frail seniors at St. Joseph’s Residence, providing them with a haven and the personalized care they need when life throws challenges their way.
Thank you!
Honouring our Heroes: A Veteran’s Journey
In mid-February 2025, a Canadian Armed Forces veteran facing homelessness found support through Good Shepherd Ministries and was quickly connected to the Veteran’s Navigation Program. Within 48 hours of referral, he completed the intake process and received a welcome package filled with essential hygiene items, winter gear, and gift cards for groceries and a local coffee shop.
Just two weeks later, he toured a housing unit, signed a lease, and is set to move into his new home on March 1, 2025. Throughout this transition, he actively participated in the Living Better group program, where he gained valuable life skills, formed meaningful connections with fellow veterans, and accessed crucial clinical support.
This veteran, like so many others, once served our country with dedication and courage. Now, it is our duty to ensure he receives the care, stability, and support he deserves. Through the Veteran’s Navigation Program, he will continue receiving wrap-around services, including employment assistance, mental health and addiction support, and ongoing follow-up care—helping him rebuild his life with dignity and security.
By standing with our veterans, we honour their sacrifice and reaffirm our commitment to those who have given so much for our nation.
Monthly Giving: Creating Lasting Change
At Good Shepherd, we see the difference that steady, reliable support can make in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. By becoming a monthly donor, you’re offering more than just a financial gift—you’re providing a lifeline. Your ongoing support means we can plan, meet urgent needs, and ensure that our doors remain open to those who need us most.
Every month, your donation helps provide safe shelter, nutritious meals, medical care, and the wraparound services that help individuals rebuild their lives. The impact of your generosity reaches far beyond just a one-time donation; it’s a long-term investment in hope and dignity.
By joining our community of monthly supporters, you help us be there every day for those who need a helping hand. Plus, as a monthly donor, you’ll receive exclusive updates and stories that show you exactly how your gift is making a difference in the lives of our neighbours who are struggling to find stability.
Thank you for considering becoming a monthly donor. With your support, together, we can create lasting change for the most vulnerable among us.
You can set up a monthly donation online at goodshepherd.ca/donate or call 416.869.3619 x 277.
My Student Placement Experience ~ Suleman Mohammed
My time as a placement student at Good Shepherd Ministries has been an incredibly rewarding and eye-opening experience. Every day brings new opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow, and I feel grateful to be part of an organization that makes such a meaningful impact in the community.
My tasks have been varied and fulfilling, including helping with donated clothing distribution, assisting during meal drop-ins, shadowing different sections to understand how the organization operates, researching services offered by other community organizations, and promoting the incredible work of Good Shepherd Ministries.
One of the most meaningful aspects of this placement has been the chance to interact directly with the clients we serve. Whether it’s handing out clothing, serving meals, or simply having a conversation. l have been inspired by their resilience and strength. These interactions have taught me the importance of compassion, active listening, and the power of small gestures to make someone’s day a little brighter.
This experience has also been a journey of personal and professional growth. I have developed practical skills like communication and teamwork, while also gaining a deeper understanding of how community services operate. Shadowing different units has given me a holistic view of the organization, and researching other community services has broadened my perspective on the collaborative efforts needed to address social issues.
What I appreciate most about this placement is the supportive and welcoming environment. The staff and volunteers have been incredibly kind and encouraging, making it easy to feel like part of the team. I am especially grateful for the guidance and mentorship of my placement supervisor, Alex Glover, whose support has been instrumental in helping me gain the hands-on skills I sought. It’s been inspiring to see how everyone works together with a shared sense of purpose.
To anyone considering a placement or volunteer opportunity, I would say take the chance. It’s not just about gaining experience, it is about making a difference, building connections, and discovering your potential. I’m truly grateful for this experience and look forward to carrying the lessons l have learned here into my future career.
Are you inspired by Suleman’s transformative experience? Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals and groups. Contact 416.869.3619 x 262 or [email protected]
Angels Among Us Gala ~ April 11
Thank you to our generous gala sponsors! Your support makes a lasting impact, helping us provide hope and care to those in need. We are truly grateful for your partnership in our mission.
We would also like to recognize all the ticket purchasers, auction donors, and dedicated volunteers who make this event possible. Your generosity and support help create a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. You are all Angels Among Us!
Celebrating Second Chances at Barrett House
Living in community can be rewarding – and it can be challenging.
One difficult day, an altercation between two Barrett House residents happened which resulted in one resident needing to be placed in alternative accommodation temporarily.
Co-workers worked to mend the damaged relationship between the two residents. Finally, after 18 months away and much mediation, the resident has been welcomed home. Now that he’s back home, he’s rebuilding his friendships and getting extra support to help him live in harmony with his community.
Join us in celebrating second chances! Your support makes happy endings like this possible.
CARING COMMUNITY
WISHLIST
Dorm Supplies
- body lotion
- deodorant
- razors
- shampoo
- shaving cream
- soap
- toothbrushes
- toothpaste
Food Items
- tuna & canned meat
- soup & stews
- canned vegetables
- pancake mix
- tea bags & coffee
- bagged rice
- salad dressing
Men’s Clothing
- jeans (all sizes)
- sneakers
- sweatpants
- sweatshirts
- underwear (new)
Medical Clinic
- antacid-chewable
- antibiotic ointment
- ensure/boost
- muscle rub cream
- non-medicated lozenges
THANK YOU ~ THANK YOU ~ THANK YOU
The Bedolfe Foundation $35,000
Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) through the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation $16,456
Lamb Foundation $10,000
Gregory Graham Foundation $8,185
Knights of Columbus Toronto Council 1388 $5,000
Little Trinity Church $1,775
Knights of Columbus St. Justin Martyr Council 11708 $1,000
BeHot Yoga Toronto $1,000
Knights of Columbus Monsignor Ingoldsby Council $500
St. Bartholomew Parish $500
Bercon Rentals
CND Visitation Province
Eagles Nest Golf Club Inc.
Eggplant Music & Sound Inc.
First Church of Christ, Scientist
Kote Holdings
Manion Wilkins & Associates
MARANT Construction Limited
Mega City Tiling
Norsdon Canada Ltd.
Pastel Labs Inc.
The McAfee-Laird Family
Tickner & Associates Inc.
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Annual Angels
Take the complication out of giving. Help provide programs and services to homeless and vulnerable individuals.
Make giving easy by signing up to become a monthly donor. Signing up means not having to remember to donate. It means spreading your annual gift over a 12-month period and making it more manageable. And you will receive a consolidated receipt at the end of the year – no worries about trying to track down all the tax receipts you accumulate throughout the year.
There is also a benefit to Good Shepherd Ministries. A stable source of revenue helps to properly plan and ensure that homeless and at-risk individuals continue to receive the programs needed, such as shelter, meals and clothing.
You can sign up online at GOODSHEPHERD.CA/DONATE and choose to make a monthly gift on the 15th or 30th of every month.
For more information or if you would like assistance, please contact 416.869.3619 x 277 or [email protected].
your legacy of compassion.
When estate planning, please remember our homeless brothers and sisters and the work of Good Shepherd Ministries. For more information please contact 416.869.3619 x 223
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