ref·uge

/ˈrefˌyo͞oj,ˈrefˌyo͞oZH/

noun: a condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or trouble.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

Christmas Backpacks

Interested in providing a Christmas backpack or “adopting” a youth this Christmas?

Our Christmas Backpack Program allows donors to provide gift backpacks filled with needed supplies and a few treats. Our Adopt-A-Youth Christmas Backpack Program allows donors to provide specific and individualized items to youth that would help get them closer to achieving a dream they have. 

Both types of backpacks are handed out to youth at our Christmas Party.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING BUILDING UPDATE

The Refuge is building affordable housing for youth.  We have created a website to give you regular updates on how the building is progressing and what the room currently look like (not real time).

How do I interact with the Homeless?

It is difficult to know what to do when you see someone experiencing homelessness.  We asked some of our youth what they would want.  Click below to find out more.

Since 1999, The Refuge has been working with youth who are experiencing homelessness or are at-risk of experiencing homelessness, or who are struggling.  More than just a place to find breakfast, lunch, showers, laundry facilities, access to clothing and personal hygiene products, as well as housing help, The Refuge is a place where youth can find community, safety, belonging and a renewed hope for their future.  

The vision of The Refuge is to see people restored to the truth that they are created in the image of God with gifts, abilities, the capacity to make positive decisions and to affect change in the world around them. We desire to see people reveal God’s glory through careful stewardship of their lives, communities, resources and relationships.

For Youth

Are you a youth wondering what type of things go on at The Refuge and how The Refuge might be able to help you?

For Community Members

Do you represent a business, community group, church or are you an individual interested in learning more about The Refuge and how you can help youth in our community?

CURRENT STATISTICS

Jan 1 – Oct 31, 2024

453

different youth served at The Refuge

(25% increase over 2023)

26,187
meals and snacks served to youth

(43% increase over 2023)

11,902

recorded program interactions

(49% increase over 2023)

198

New youth (first time at The Refuge)


(19% increase over 2023)

The Refuge

300 Court Street

Oshawa, ON L1H 4X3

(p) 905-404-2420 (f) 905-404-1910

contactus@refugeoutreach.com