Friends of Ruby Charity

Championing the holistic well-being of 2SLGBQTIA+ youth aged 16-29, Friends of Ruby emerges as a dedicated beacon of support, seamlessly weaving together mental health services, social services, and housing solutions. Their approach is all-encompassing, addressing the intricate tapestry of mind, body, and community, and meeting individuals wherever they stand on their personal odyssey.

Their visionary scope encompasses a world where the spectrum of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and two-spirit young individuals thrives with validation, inclusion, and empowerment, propelling them toward healthier lives. Birthed in 2014 under the banner of Egale Canada as Egale Youth Services, Friends of Ruby sprouted to fill a glaring gap in the Greater Toronto Area's support landscape. This catalyst was kindled by Egale's groundbreaking "Not under my roof" study, which illuminated the harrowing predicament of 2SLGBQTIA+ youth homelessness stemming from distressingly high rates of familial rejection, violence, and trauma.

The study underscored an acute necessity for tailored services within the shelter system for 2SLGBQTIA+ youth, as almost one in four youth experiencing homelessness or tenuous living conditions identified within this spectrum. Further studies unearthed even higher numbers, with transgender youth encountering particularly formidable barriers in securing housing.

Compelled to enact change, Egale Canada embarked on two pivotal initiatives: the establishment of a purpose-built housing facility for 2SLGBQTIA+ youth and a Youth Centre geared to gain profound insights into the youth's needs while the housing facility was being constructed.

Over time, their Youth Centre flourished, doubling in size and offering a welcoming haven for drop-in sessions, counseling, practical assistance programs, and nourishing meals. The center's 7,500 square feet space at 489 Queen St. East is a testament to thoughtful design and provides unwavering support to over 100 young individuals each month.

By 2019, the evolution led Friends of Ruby to an independent charitable status, enabling them to bolster their support to young individuals and widen their horizons as they prepared to unveil the Friends of Ruby Home. This pioneering facility stands as Canada's first custom-designed transitional housing haven for 2SLGBQTIA+ youth, ushering in a new era of support, understanding, and hope.