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

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.

Homelessness is uncomfortable.  It can be difficult to know how to interact with someone experiencing homelessness.  So what should you do?  Do you approach someone?  Do you cross the street and pretend you didn’t see them?

We asked our youth for their input.  How would they want someone to interact with them when they did/are experience/ing homelessness.

Christmas Backpack Programs

Interested in adopting a youth this Christmas or providing a Christmas Backpack?  The Adopt-A-Youth Christmas Backpack program allows donors to provide specific and individualized items for youth that would help to improve their lives.  The Christmas Backpack Program provides gift backpacks filled with needed supplies and a few treats.  Both types of backpacks are handed out to our youth at our Christmas Party.  If you would like to participate, please click the appropriate link below.

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 –  Sept 30, 2025

402

different youth served at The Refuge


20,156

meals and snacks served to youth

10,382

recorded program interactions


179

New youth (first time at The Refuge)

LAST YEAR'S STATISTICS

Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2024

554

different youth served at The Refuge

(15% increase over 2023 and 59% over 2022)

28,212
meals and snacks served to youth

(44% increase over 2023)

13,791

recorded program interactions

(42% increase over 2023 and 71% over 2022)

229

New youth (first time at The Refuge)


(7% increase over 2023 and 85% over 2022)

The Refuge

357 Simcoe Street South

Oshawa, ON L1H 4J2

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

contactus@refugeoutreach.com