185 Yorkland Blvd.

Location: 185 Yorkland Blvd.
Shelter residents: Singles and couples of all genders
Number of beds: up to 297
Opened: March 2020
Service operator: Fred Victor

The City of Toronto has been using 185 Yorkland Blvd. to accommodate people experiencing homelessness since early 2019. The space was secured through a Request for Proposals process, and, before March 2020, was used primarily to shelter refugee families.

As part of the City’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for physical distancing in the shelter system, in March 2020, the 185 Yorkland Blvd.  location was converted to a temporary shelter serving anyone over the age of 16. This service is operated by community partner Fred Victor and is funded by the City of Toronto.

The City has contracted site management and services at 185 Yorkland Boulevard to Fred Victor.

Individuals come to shelter sites with a range of needs, both material and physical. 185 Yorkland Blvd. is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides wrap-around support for shelter residents.

These supports include:

  • counsellors/case managers who work with shelter residents to develop permanent housing plans
  • assessments and referrals to community services and supports both inside the shelter and to external organizations
  • three meals provided daily
  • access to primary health care and referrals through Inner City Health Associates. Inner City Family Health Team also provides supervision and provision of social workers providing trauma informed therapeutic support
  • harm reduction interventions led by staff from South Riverdale Community Health Centre and Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre
  • long-term intensive mental health and addictions services, provided by Multi-disciplinary Outreach Team – Toronto North Support Services

Community and resident safety is a priority for the City and Fred Victor. Meetings are planned with neighbourhood community police from 33 Division.

Fred Victor staff are highly trained and educated when it comes to operating low-barrier shelters and supporting those experiencing homelessness. All staff are trained in de-escalation and participate in regular training in health and safety, including First Aid and CPR.

The City is working hard to ensure the residents of the temporary program are good neighbours. It is important to remember that people using shelter services are equal citizens of the city. They can move around communities and use amenities such as parks, and public benches like all residents in our collective city. And like all residents, they are also expected to conduct themselves within the rules/laws and by-laws. If anyone witnesses illegal activity or an emergency situation, please contact the police.

The site has security guards that provide 24/7 security. Safety walks are done by security guards every 30 minutes, including stairs and site perimeters. There are hotel security cameras on all floors, including the reception area, dining hall and back of the hotel.

Representatives from the Fred Victor have had meetings with community members and Toronto Police Services 33 Division.

Because of physical distancing restrictions, engagement events are online and over the phone rather than in person.

Community members can get engaged, share feedback, and/or ask questions: