Based on conversations and concerns from the women's sector table, the Toronto Shelter Network, in collaboration with the Trans Working Group secured a one-time capacity building grant to undertake a study regarding the safety of two spirit, trans, nonbinary and gender diverse clients in Toronto's shelters. This unique project engaged service providers and two spirit, trans, nonbinary and gender diverse shelter-using clients to document experiences with, and opinions and ideas about, safety and inclusion in Toronto’s shelters. The project working group that was formed earlier this year included representatives from the YMCA, Sistering, Fred Victor, the 519, 2 Spirited People of the 1st Nations, and the City of Toronto.
The project aimed to better understand the unique needs and challenges of Toronto's two spirit, trans, nonbinary and gender diverse shelter-using populations, and to make recommendations that will help the Toronto shelter system become a safer, more accessible and more inclusive environment for these communities.
Toolkits:
1. 12 Ways to Create Safer Spaces
Click above to learn how your organization can create safer spaces for two-spirited, trans, non-binary and gender diverse people in shelters and 24 hour emergency programs.
2. Glossary of Terms
Click above to learn access a glossary of terms.
3. Sample Intake Form
Click above to view a sample intake form on how to better serve two-spirited, trans, non-binary and gender fluid folks.
If you have additional questions, please contact : soha@torontoshelternetwork.ca