Who We Are

In 1911, Central Neighbourhood House (CNH) was established in response to the appalling living conditions of newcomers to Canada and is the second oldest settlement house in Toronto. Inadequate housing, poverty and lack of city services like sewer, water and medical care created an environment of despair. CNH was founded on the fundamental principle that the most effective way to improve the conditions of people living in poverty is by living and working with them as neighbours. For over 112 years, CNH has done just that; working alongside people to improve their quality of life on every level.

Kensington-Bellwoods Community Legal Services is committed to providing free legal assistance to people living on low incomes in the neighbourhoods south of Bloor between Ossington and Yonge. Our primary areas of concern are Housing and Tenants’ Rights, Income Security Programs, Immigration and Refugee Law, as well as Workers’ Rights. Our goal is to eliminate poverty in our society and to ensure equality before the law. To that end, we are committed to working with other individuals and groups who share that goal, and to community organizing to bring about changes in the law that improve the legal and economic status of low-income people in Ontario. Our services include providing summary advice, representation and assistance, as well as referrals on non-legal matters of concern to clients, community outreach, community organizing, community education, and organizing law reform activities aimed at improving the legal and economic status of low-income persons in Ontario.

Back in 1975, the residents of Toronto's east end took action to address the isolation experienced by many seniors in the city and founded Senior Link. They were driven by their compassion and a shared passion to help their senior neighbours in need. They believed that their personal touch and involvement would be an effective way to help seniors stay at home. Senior Link, now known as Neighbourhood Link Support Services, was founded on the principle that seniors should be able to live independently, safely and with dignity in their community. Over the years, the organization has expanded its programs and services to support not only seniors but also newcomers, youth, and people who are marginally housed.

In 1962, the Anglican Diocese established St. Stephen's Community House as a settlement house with a primary focus on providing community services for youth. The organization later expanded its services to include English classes, counseling, and job placement services for new immigrants. In 1974, St. Stephen's became an independent, non-denominational, incorporated not-for-profit charitable organization. Over time, the agency has continued to grow and now offers services for a range of people, including children, youth, people who are homeless, newcomers, seniors, and job seekers. St. Stephen's was known for its strong commitment to community development and social justice, and for taking action in tackling the root causes of poverty.