Directive 2019-02: Update to 9.1.2 (a) and 9.1.2 (c) in Toronto Shelter Standards on Menstrual Products

November 30, 2019

Purpose of Directive

Effective immediately, this directive amends standard 9.1.2 (a) and 9.1.2 (c) in the Toronto Shelter Standards (TSS). This directive also introduces that shelter services, 24-hour drop-ins, and respites will receive dedicated funding for menstrual products.

Background:

This directive serves to align the shelter standards related to menstrual products more closely with the 24-hour Respite Site standards (TRS), to provide increased client access to menstrual products.

Toronto City Council has also approved $222,359 in funding for shelters, 24-Hour Women’s Drop-ins, and 24-Hour Respite Sites in 2019 for the purchase menstrual products. Future years funding will be dependent on Council approval of Shelter, Support & Housing Administration (SSHA) budget. SSHA will send a letter to Providers outlining funding allocations and conditions.

Shelter providers are directed to review the updated standards with staff, senior management and board of directors and to implement all requirements.

Update to 9.1.2 (a) and 9.1.2 (c) in Toronto Shelter Standards on Menstrual Products -November 30, 2019

• 9.1.2 (a) Shelter providers will assist clients to obtain items needed to maintain basic hygiene and grooming. At a minimum, emergency shelter providers will offer each client soap, shampoo, a toothbrush, toothpaste, shaving products (e.g., razors), hygiene pads/tampons and incontinence products as appropriate upon admission or no later than 12 hours after admission and upon request for the duration of the client’s stay.
• 9.1.2 (c) Emergency shelter providers will continue to provide toiletries and hygiene supplies upon request for the duration of the client’s shelter stay.