Volunteer
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Welcome to the Sheltr Canada Volunteer Community!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Sheltr Canada! Volunteers are at the heart of our work, and your contributions are essential to the positive impact we create in our community. We look forward to getting to know you, learning about your skills, and matching you with meaningful opportunities.
Becoming a Volunteer
Our volunteer onboarding process ensures you are prepared and supported in your role:
Interview with the Volunteer Coordinator – to discuss your interests, skills, and availability.
Online Registration and Document Signing – completing necessary forms and agreements.
Once these steps are complete, we provide:
A comprehensive orientation to Sheltr Canada
Role-specific training tailored to your volunteer position
By volunteering with Sheltr Canada, you will help create a safer, healthier, and more caring community for everyone.
For more information or to start your volunteer journey, please email:
volunteer@sheltrcanada.ca
What You Can Expect as a Volunteer
Connect with inspiring people and build meaningful relationships
Support Sheltr Canada’s mission to provide safe, caring services for those in need
Learn, contribute, and grow by sharing your unique skills
Gain valuable and transformative experiences
Receive guidance and support every step of the way
Thank You for Your Interest in Volunteering with Sheltr Canada!
Volunteers are essential to our mission of serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, and food insecurity. We offer a variety of opportunities for community members to make a meaningful difference.
Choose the Type of Volunteer Opportunity That Fits You:
Adult Volunteers (18+)
[Click here to apply for adult volunteer opportunities]
Youth Volunteers (17 and under)
[Click here to apply for youth volunteer opportunities]
Student Placements and Residents
[Click here to see placement & resident opportunities]
Group or Organization Volunteers
Email us at communityrelations@sheltrcanada.ca or call 905-528-4211 ext 3113
Volunteer Opportunities
Willow’s Place
Willow’s Place is a safe daytime drop-in space for women, operating seven days a week. Volunteers can support our programs by:
Planning and running craft or social activities
Engaging with service users during programming
Serving meals and assisting with meal clean-up
Willow’s Place
Inasmuch House is a 40-bed shelter for women and children who have experienced abuse or homelessness. Volunteer opportunities include:
Organizing and sorting donations and storage
Supporting the LEAF program (Learning Effective Anti-Violence in Families)
Administrative support at the front desk
Assisting with meal preparation and clean-up
Participating in special projects
Men’s Emergency Shelter
Our 24/7 shelter provides meals and safe accommodation for men experiencing homelessness. Volunteer roles include:
Helping in the kitchen
Assisting with meal clean-up
Participating in special projects such as gardening, organizing donations, and supporting maintenance
Housing UP!
Housing UP! supports individuals experiencing episodic and chronic homelessness by helping them obtain safe, stable, and affordable housing. Volunteer opportunities include:
Assembling furniture for clients
Sorting and organizing inventory
Supporting other special projects to enhance clients’ housing experience
Volunteer Opportunities
The 196 Youth Afterschool Program
The 196 is an afterschool program for youth in grades 6–9 in the neighborhoods surrounding our Wentworth Street location. As a volunteer, you may:
Assist staff with supervising students within the building
Help youth with homework and after-school projects
Support activities such as crafts, games, and outdoor play (e.g., park visits, gardening)
Mentor youth and provide a listening ear for their concerns
Kitchen Assistant
Kitchen Assistant volunteers play an important role in ensuring meals are prepared and served with care. Duties may include:
Prepping ingredients for cooking in shelter or community kitchens
Serving meals in a cafeteria-style environment
Assisting with washing dishes and kitchen clean-up
Requirements: Ability to lift up to 20 lbs, stand/walk for 3–4 hours, work in a warm kitchen environment, and follow safe food handling instructions from staff.
Good Food Centre
The Good Food Centre is an emergency food program that provides groceries to families experiencing food insecurity. Volunteer tasks include:
Preparing grocery packs based on family size, dietary needs, and cultural requests
Stocking shelves and organizing inventory
Supporting warehouse operations and managing incoming products
Facilities Maintenance
Facilities Services helps maintain safe and welcoming spaces. As a Facilities Maintenance volunteer, you may:
Assist with repairs and general maintenance as needed
Support landscaping and outdoor work
Help with cleaning and upkeep of facilities
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old do I have to be to volunteer?
Volunteers must be 17 years or older to participate. Specific programs may have additional age requirements.
2. How long does the application process take?
The application process typically takes 2–4 weeks and includes an interview, online registration, document signing, and orientation.
3. Will I receive training?
Yes! All volunteers receive a comprehensive orientation and role-specific training to ensure you are prepared and confident in your position.
4. Is there a specific time commitment?
Time commitments vary depending on the program. Some roles require weekly or bi-weekly shifts, while others are more flexible or project-based.
5. Do I need previous volunteer experience?
No prior experience is necessary. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and provide the guidance and support you need to succeed.
Our Philosophy
At Mission Services, we recognize that volunteers are an essential part of our team and our community. We value safety, collaboration, self-awareness, and growth, and believe that every volunteer brings unique skills and perspectives that enrich our work.
Volunteers at Mission Services:
Learn, share, and develop their skills while supporting our mission
Serve as ambassadors, bringing their voices, vision, and diverse experiences to the organization
Receive ongoing support, guidance, and training
Build meaningful relationships and gain life-changing experiences
By volunteering with us, individuals not only contribute to creating a more caring and inclusive community but also experience personal growth and the satisfaction of making a real difference in the lives of people in need.
News & Events
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With Immense Gratitude
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Good Food to Grow With
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Sprouting Supports for Summer
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