With wraparound care at its centre, the Transitional Housing Program offered by Thresholds Homes and Supports (THS) empowers previously unhoused individuals to work towards long-term housing in the community in a safe, shared residence with 24/7 staff support.
With Indigenous people disproportionately represented in the unhoused population in Ontario (over 13% despite accounting for only about 3% of the province’s population), THS is intentional about addressing the enduring effects of colonialism through its care. This includes creating culturally safe spaces where Indigenous identity, community, and cultural reconnection are respected, supported and honoured within our program.
“I want the support I am providing my clients to be about them, to be focused on them as a person, their lived experience, how that has shaped where they are now, and how I can support them from a cultural and spiritual perspective,” said Taelor Hemmelgarn, an Indigenous Life Skills Worker at THS’s transitional housing site in Guelph.
The affordable and supportive housing provider offers programs for people experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, with a spectrum of services available based on a client’s needs and goals. Clients are supported in building stability and confidence as they transition towards more permanent housing in the community.
“For a lot of clients I support that identify as either First Nations, Métis, or Inuit, getting them to that point where they can access a status or citizenship card that connects them with other services and benefits is so significant.”
Taelor helps clients navigate the lengthy process to obtain a status card, which can be a key part of realizing their goals.
“Some clients are interested in going back to school, but funding is the main thing. With a card and advocating alongside clients, a lot of doors open up to what they need so they can transition out of here.”
Beyond this, Taelor also supports clients with accessing Indigenous-led services and advocating for resources that support their long-term stability and housing goals. For many Indigenous clients, housing support is not just about having a place to live, it’s also about having the opportunity to reconnect with culture, identity and community.
THS embeds Indigenous ways of being into their programming, from sharing circles to formal partnerships with Indigenous-led organizations like Crow Shield Lodge. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge and led by Indigenous staff, clients are provided with a culturally safe and supportive environment where their cultural identities, personal goals, and healing journeys are respected and nurtured. Cultural supports can include participation in ceremony, traditional teachings, and opportunities for community connection
More information about THS’s transitional housing program, including eligibility criteria and the referral process, can be found at thresholdssupports.ca/housingsupport.
