Homeward Bound offers participants a comprehensive set of supports, including:
- Fully funded two-year college education in a marketable field
- Academic upgrading program for college entrance
- Affordable furnished housing
- Goal-oriented case management
- Child care and after-school programs, including tutoring and mentorship
- Access to mental health, parenting and family counselling
- 14-week unpaid internship to gain work experience
- Job search support and networking opportunities
Community of Practice
Designed by WoodGreen and piloted in Toronto, the Homeward Bound program model has been replicated by social service agencies outside the city and adapted for their local contexts and needs. This network of agencies come together as a Community of Practice to engage in resource and knowledge sharing, capacity building activities and coordination in service delivery. In addition to WoodGreen’s Toronto-based program, Homeward Bound is currently delivered by agencies in Peterborough, Halton and Brantford-Brant.
Over four years, participants gain the skills, education and employment experience necessary to achieve financial stability and independence.