St. Joseph’s Residence

As Canada’s population ages, so does its homeless population. Increasing numbers of frail seniors struggle to survive on the streets and in shelters.

It is often hard to find suitable housing for these seniors. Many suffer from mental illness and addictions. They may not have the social skills needed to live happily in a traditional seniors’ residence. Most have next to no financial resources or social support.

St. Joseph’s Residence opened in July of 1999 in response to this need. It offers a caring and supportive home to nine seniors (55+) with a history of chronic homelessness. Priority is given to individuals who also have mental health issues, are living with an addiction, or suffer from chronic illness or disabilities.

St. Joseph’s Residence follows a communal living model. Residents have their own rooms, but share a communal living space, kitchen, washroom and bathing facilities. In addition to the nine residents who receive 24 hour care, two residents live in semi-independent apartments nearby.

Services are client-focused, designed to respond to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of each resident. Addictions are managed using a harm-reduction model.

The work of St. Joseph's Residence is made possible thanks to the support of the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) and private charitable contributions.

To inquire about a placement at St. Joseph’s Residence, please contact (416) 869-3619 ext. 260 or .

Feedback on services for people with disabilities

Good Shepherd Ministries strives to improve its accessibility for people with disabilities. If you would like to provide feedback on your experience of Good Shepherd Ministries' services for people with disabilities, please contact us in person, by mail, by e-mail, or by phone. You can print and complete this form to make the process easier.

St. Joseph's Residence

I started volunteering at St. Joseph’s Residence a few months after retiring as a geriatric social worker, and found one of the best kept secrets in the business.

Gay, Volunteer

St. Joe’s, as it is fondly known, provides good care, nurturing, encouragement, respect and dignity to its residents.

Bill, Volunteer