finding home

Since opening our doors in 1998, Matthew House has welcomed over 1,500 refugee
claimants from 100 different nations. Each of our residents have unique stories
about their journey and arrival in Canada.

MUSTAFA'S STORY

A few years ago, Mustafa arrived in Toronto from Afghanistan. Welcomed by Matthew House, his first impression was that it felt like home, “Matthew House is a place full of good people,” said Mustafa, “it’s a shoulder to rest your head, support when you have no one, and a school for guidance.” At Matthew House, he found a community that transformed his life. “I met some friends from Matthew House who changed my heart and blessed me with good habits of helping others, volunteering, and bringing smiles to others." Today, Mustafa has a great job in his field through the support of the Matthew House community, and he regularly volunteered for over two years at the Dundas home. His wife and young child have been able to join him in Canada and are doing well.

SARA'S STORY

Sara came to Canada from Oromia, Ethiopia in 2015 so her daughter, Nayomi, could receive life-saving surgery at SickKids Hospital. After almost a year in the hospital Nayomi fully recovered but, after leaving the hospital, Sara knew that returning to Ethiopia was unsafe for them. Sara made a refugee claim and was welcomed by Matthew House. They stayed at the Dundas home for several months, and then transitioned to the Greensides home. "Matthew House has taught me how to use the money, how to survive winter, how to speak English, how to manage my house, how to cook, and the history of Canada. They check in and see if we're having any problems, and I've even had a piano lesson” said Sara. Today, both are thriving. For the first time, Nayomi can get an education at school. Sara is also in school and is very hopeful for the future. “When I get the chance to start my life, I will get to do something like this for others."

Refugee Youth stories

The work of Matthew House was featured by CBC’s “The National News” program. Watch the video below!

“Refugee advocates say that over the past 20 years there's been an increase in the number of unaccompanied youths arriving in Canada. These minors face the dual challenge of adapting to their new environment while also being children missing their parents. For those alone and with nowhere to go, a Toronto shelter looks to give them the support they need.” CBC News