Sherbourne Health’s Supporting Our Youth (SOY) program is all about giving 2SLGBTQ youth the support they need.
Many of the young people we serve are dealing with homelessness, are newcomers to Canada, or facing multiple barriers to health and wellness. Traditional systems often fall short in meeting the needs of trans, non-binary, and queer youth, but we’re here to bridge that gap.
We offer daily drop-ins, mentorship, goal planning, mental health support, and case management. Plus, we provide access to essentials like food and clothing, and help youth build employment skills, find housing, and connect with others through shared meals and community activities.
Our goal? To support the health and well-being of 2SLGTBQ youth.
Through your support, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of 2SLGBTQ youth. Here’s how you can help us raise $25,000:
Your contribution directly funds essential services for 2SLGBTQ youth, from mental health support to basic necessities like food and clothing. Every dollar you give makes a meaningful difference.
Create your own fundraiser by clicking the 'Start Fundraising' button above, and rally your friends, family, and community to support our cause. Download our Community Fundraising Toolkit for a step-by-step guide, and use the #SOYBridgingTheGap social media graphics to spread the word. Top fundraisers will be entered into a draw to win some great prizes!
Participate in our online auction for a chance to win exciting items, including hotel stays, memorabilia, appliances, gift certificates, and fun experiences! Your bids help support our SOY program while giving you the opportunity to enjoy some great rewards.
Supporting Our Youth is a vital, innovative program offering holistic support to 2SLGBTQ youth under 29. Last year alone, we had over 1,700 drop-in visits and made over 500 referrals to social and mental health services.
Your support truly makes a difference. Just $20 can provide a meal for a young person, and $100 can offer employment skills training to five youth.
Through mental health services, access to food and clothing, housing and employment assistance, and skills-building opportunities, SOY empowers youth to build resilience, confidence, and essential life skills.
Hear directly from the youth we serve about why SOY matters to them:
“With the unwavering support of SOY and my Youth Resource Worker, I won my refugee claim. They constantly encouraged me with positive thoughts, helped me register for a school program, provided me with clothes, assisted in my housing search, and gave me hope to believe in myself again. They offered many hugs, made calls with me, and checked on me via text messages.” - Faith, SOY Participant
“Moving here as a queer and trans teenager on the run from an abusive and transphobic home, attending the SOY program helped me find community and support. I was able to access health care services, get fed regularly, and learn about issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community.” - Markus, SOY Participant
* Charities pay a small fee for our service. Find out how much it is and what we do for it.