Harm Reduction

Harm Reduction

Homes First serves all residents through a harm reduction approach. All staff respect that substance use is common and we choose to work to minimize harmful effects rather than simply ignore or condemn any issues. As an agency, we understand that substance use and unsafe sexual acts are complex and encompass a continuum of behaviors from severe abuse to total abstinence. ICM teams and other staff’s approach to all tenants is unique and based entirely on the direction the tenants see for themselves.

Homes First has a Harm Reduction Committee and is building a more robust Harm Reduction Department. Our Harm Reduction staff will work across different sites within Homes First, bringing added specialized knowledge and experience for residents requiring these services. We also be work in coordination with our external Harm Reduction Partners (Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre and South Riverdale Community Health Centre) to deliver supports at our sites.

Sites Running This Program

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Other Stories

The Power of Knowledge

R, a 36-year-old actuary from Sindh, Pakistan, moved to Toronto seeking a fresh start. He currently resides at one of Homes First’s shelters. Despite the

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