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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
As we welcome a brand-new year, let us pause and celebrate the incredible impact that we’ve made together. To our Donors, Sponsors, Volunteers and Coworkers, I thank you. Your compassion and dedication have brought light and dignity to those who need it most, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
2026 is not just another year—it is a renewed opportunity to live out our calling with compassion and love. Guided by our values of Hospitality, Quality, Respect, Spirituality, and Responsibility, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of the homeless and the most vulnerable in our community.
Together, we advance the vision of our founders, St. John of God and Brother Mathias Barrett, ensuring their legacy of service to the most vulnerable shines brighter than ever.
Let us step into this New Year with hearts full of faith, hands ready to serve, and spirits committed to making a difference.
May this New Year bring you and your loved ones peace, joy, and abundant blessings. Thank you for joining our mission of supporting those who need it most.
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.