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About Good Shepherd
“The Good Shepherd” is well known on the streets of Toronto. But what makes us different? The answer varies for each person who walks through our doors.
For some, it’s a place to get a hot meal, clean clothes, and a safe, clean bed for the night; for others, it’s a place to go when you need someone to listen, someone to help. Regardless of the reason people seek help, every person is treated with care and respect. They matter!
For all of us, Good Shepherd is a place that promotes human dignity. A place where the invisible, the vulnerable, and the homeless– come first!
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE:
AKLILU WENDAFEREW
Since opening our doors in 1963, Good Shepherd has served as a welcome refuge for the homeless and vulnerable members of our community. At the heart of our mission is hospitality—the intentional act of welcoming, serving, and standing alongside each person with respect and compassion. Guided by our values of Hospitality, Quality, Respect, Spirituality, and Responsibility, we continue to open our doors and our hearts to the those who need our support – whether it is a cup of coffee shared, a bed for the night or counselling.
We are only as strong as the most vulnerable among us and it takes all of us together to affect change. For this reason, we thank all those who support our efforts – our Donors, Funders, Volunteers, and Coworkers. Your compassion and dedication help create welcoming spaces rooted in dignity, care, and hope for those who need it most.
Through our shared commitment, we carry forward the legacy of St. John of God and Brother Mathias Barrett—living their vision through everyday acts of service and welcome.
Thank you for being an essential part of this mission and for walking alongside us as we support those who need it most.
Do good for yourselves by doing good for others ~ St. John of God
Good Shepherd Centre
The place where you can go when there’s no money left for food. A chance to start again through the Resettlement or DARE (Drug and Alcohol Recovery Enrichment) Programs.
Barrett House
Toronto’s first supportive housing residence for people living with HIV and AIDS, dedicated to giving one-to-one attention to each of its residents.
St. Joseph’s Residence
Home and 24-hour support for seniors (55+) with a chronic history of homelessness. “I would be going from hostel to hostel if I wasn’t here,” says Brian, a St. Joseph’s resident.
MISSION
To be present to the homeless and most neglected members of our community. To offer a broad range of compassionate programs and services to enhance the quality of life while inspiring hope and promoting human dignity.
VISION
To alleviate the effects of poverty while striving to eliminate chronic homelessness within our community.
VALUES
HOSPITALITY: The overarching value as inspired by St. John of God is embedded in all we do as we create opportunities for transformation and welcome others with generosity and openness.
QUALITY: To provide excellence in service delivery.
RESPECT: To be lovingly present and open to others.
RESPONSIBILITY: To assume a duty of care for those who use our services.
SPIRITUALITY: Committed to those we serve through all situations in their lives, honouring all traditions, cultures, and religions as a sign of hope and hospitality.