FRIENDS OF RUBY
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Mission Statement
Friends of Ruby is dedicated to the progressive well-being of 2SLGBQTIA+ youth (aged 16-29) through mental health services, social services and housing. Our approach is comprehensive, involving mind, body, and community – wherever you are on your personal journey. Our vision – a world where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and two-spirit young people feel validated, involved and feel empowered to lead healthier lives. Our impactful counselling modalities, therapeutic groups, social activities and practical supports address multiple aspects of a youth’s life, from health and education to employment. Combined with an integrated transitional housing model, this supports youth towards independent living. Every service and program we offer is informed by 2SLGBQTIA+ youth, grounded in evidence, and supported by research. Our services and programs are led and facilitated by highly-skilled 2SLGBQTIA+ individuals who reflect the diversity of the youth we serve. Here, nobody is an outsider. We work hard to help create a reality where all 2SLGBQTIA+ youth are validated, involved, and empowered to lead their lives.
About This Cause
Founded in 2014 by Egale Canada to address the reality that Toronto’s 2SLGBTQIA+ youth face high rates of family rejection, violence, homelessness, suicidality, and trauma. In 2019, Friends of Ruby officially became its own registered charity. The Friends of Ruby Youth Drop-In Center was created to meet the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth aged 16-29 youth by providing a safe space to build community and access case management and mental health supports. To date, we have served over 1,100 2SLGBTQIA+ youth at our Drop-In Centre. Youth will find meals, activities, life-skills development, support groups, and community. We offer barrier free one-on-one counselling, support with gender identity and sexual orientation, and help finding housing, healthcare and jobs. Friends of Ruby Case Workers offer practical support to help young people navigate complex systems and break through the barriers holding them back. Think of them like knowledgeable, helpful support with access to useful resources at their fingertips. The Counselling Team at Friends of Ruby reflects the diversity of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Their personal and professional experience informs our comprehensive and collaborative approach to mental health and well-being. More than a roof over one’s head, the Friends of Ruby Home is a first-of-its-kind transitional house, built specifically for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. Since opening in December 2020, we have provided 61 youth with a place to call home while supporting their journeys of mental health, well-being, and independent living.