55 Years of Bringing Potential to Light 2026 ANNUAL REPORT Our ProgramsExpandAfter School Program – Toronto Bailiff Services – Eastern Region Breakfast Program – Toronto Developmental Services – Toronto Residential Services for Adolescents – Toronto Youth Centre – Ajax Youth Shelter – Toronto Our LeadershipExpandBoard of Directors Cindy Bruce-Barrett, Chair Jeremy Mullin, Vice-Chair Marina Attia, Director Paul Bobier, Director Bryon Cohen, Director Chitra Gnanasabesan, Director Vanna Kazazian, Director Jeannie Lasquinha, Director Carm McCormick, Director Elizabeth Molligan, Director Leonard Nolasco, Director Christopher Townsend, Director Richard Walo, Director Senior Management Shelly Jaigobin, Executive Director Tania Guthrie, Associate Director of Operations and Development Katie McGregor, Senior Manager, Developmental Services and Outreach Rosalinde Douma, Senior Manager of Youth Justice Services Sandesh Karki, Senior Accountant Thanosan Balakumar, Senior Human Resources Manager Vivian Manyara, Shelter Manager About This Report For 55 years, Kennedy House has been helping children and youth discover their strengths, overcome barriers, and build brighter futures. This year's theme, Bringing Potential to Light, reflects the belief that every young person possesses unique talents, resilience, and potential. Like a photograph developed through light, those possibilities become visible when children and youth are provided with safety, support, opportunity, and belonging. Throughout 2025-2026, Kennedy House continued to strengthen programs that respond to the evolving needs of individuals and families. From emergency shelter and housing support to employment readiness, community outreach, developmental services, and residential care, our programs create pathways toward stability, independence, and hope. This report celebrates the impact made possible through the dedication of our board of directors, staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and community supporters. Together, we are helping children and youth build the foundations for brighter futures. A Message from the Executive Director and Board Chair This year, Kennedy House proudly celebrates 55 years of service, care, and community impact. As we mark this important milestone, we reflect on a journey that began with a simple but powerful belief: that young people deserve to be supported in safe, nurturing, family-like environments where they can grow, heal, and reach their full potential. Over the past five and a half decades, Kennedy House has evolved to meet the changing needs of children, youth, individuals, and families in our communities. While our programs have expanded and adapted, our commitment to providing compassionate, person-centred care has remained constant. This anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the many people who have shaped our story. We honour the vision of our founders, the dedication of our staff and volunteers, the generosity of our donors and community partners, and the leadership of past and present Board members. Most importantly, we celebrate the children, youth, individuals, and families who have entrusted Kennedy House to be part of their journeys. Their resilience, courage, and achievements continue to inspire us every day. Together, we have built more than programs and services. We have built a community of support that has helped thousands of people overcome challenges, discover strengths, and create brighter futures. As we look ahead, we remain committed to advancing our mission, responding to emerging needs, and ensuring that every person who comes through our doors has access to the care, opportunities, and support they need to thrive. Thank you for being part of the Kennedy House story and for helping us continue this important work. Cindy Bruce-Barrett Chair, Board of Directors Shelly Jaigobin Executive Director Our Mission & Vision Mission Kennedy House works with children and youth to empower them to grow as individuals and contribute as members of their communities. This is achieved through our supportive living and community-based programs by providing holistic support and building trusting relationships. Vision Kennedy House will be an impactful leader to help the youth of today achieve their dreams of tomorrow. 55 Years of Bringing Potential to Light This summer, Kennedy House marked an extraordinary milestone: 55 years of building brighter futures for children, youth, individuals, and families. To celebrate this achievement, we welcomed supporters, staff, volunteers, alumni, community partners, and program participants to our 55th Anniversary Community BBQ. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with laughter, connection, great food, and the sharing of memories that reflected on how far Kennedy House has come since opening its doors in 1971. What began as a single house on Kennedy Road was founded on a simple but powerful belief: young people involved with Child and Family Services deserved the opportunity to grow and thrive in a family- like environment rather than an institutional setting. That vision laid the foundation for an organization that would continue to evolve alongside the changing needs of our communities. Over the past 55 years, Kennedy House has expanded from one residential home into a network of programs and services supporting children, youth, individuals, and families across the region. From residential care and developmental services to youth justice programs, emergency shelter, and community-based initiatives, our mission has remained rooted in creating safe spaces, fostering belonging, and helping people move forward with confidence and hope. As we reflect on our history, we are reminded that the heart of Kennedy House has always been the people we serve. Thousands of children and youth have found support, encouragement, and opportunity through our programs. Their resilience, achievements, and stories continue to inspire the work we do every day. Our Impact 10,950 shelter bed nights provided 42 volunteers engaged 316 mental health program engagements 369 attendances at employment and life skills workshops 32,850 meals served to youth experiencing homelessness 4 Ed Blazo Scholarships awarded 927 participations in arts and recreation programs 21 student placements hosted 6 student placement participants hired These numbers represent more than services delivered. They reflect opportunities created, skills developed, community connections strengthened, and brighter futures made possible for the young people we serve. Our Programs ExpandBAILIFF SERVICES - Ensuring Safe and Secure TransportationKennedy House Bailiff Services provides secure transportation for youth in the care of the Eastern Region Justice System. Working closely with community and justice partners, staff ensure youth are transported safely, professionally, and with respect and dignity. ExpandDEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES - Supporting Independence and InclusionKennedy House Developmental Services support youth and young adults with developmental and cognitive challenges in achieving their personal goals. Through person-centred supports, individuals are encouraged to develop life skills, build confidence, participate in their communities, and increase their independence. ExpandKENNEDY HOUSE YOUTH CENTRE - Supporting Accountability and Positive ChangeThe Kennedy House Youth Centre provides a safe, structured environment for youth involved with the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Through guidance, mentorship, and skill development, youth are supported in making positive choices and working toward successful outcomes. ExpandOUTREACH - Creating Opportunities through Community ProgramsKennedy House Outreach programs provide safe, welcoming spaces where children can learn, grow, and connect. Through our Breakfast and After-School Programs, children receive nutritious meals, mentorship, academic support, and opportunities to build positive relationships and life skills. ExpandRESIDENTIAL CARE - Providing Safe and Supportive HomesKennedy House offers safe, nurturing homes for children and youth referred through child and family services. Staff provide individualized support that promotes well-being, educational success, healthy relationships, and the development of the skills needed for a successful transition to adulthood. ExpandYOUTH SHELTER - Providing Safety, Stability, and a Path ForwardThe Kennedy House Youth Shelter provides emergency housing and individualized support for youth aged 16 to 24 experiencing homelessness. Beyond a safe place to stay, youth can access counselling, life skills development, employment support, wellness programming, and housing assistance designed to help them build stability, confidence, and independence. Bringing Potential to Light Alex's Story: A Pathway to Stability After years of cycling through the shelter system, 22-year-old Alex was determined to build a different future. Like many young people experiencing homelessness, Alex faced barriers that extended beyond finding a place to live. Although he had participated in employment programs through other organizations, sustainable employment remained out of reach. Through Kennedy House's Pathways to Employment Program, things began to change. The program was created to remove practical barriers that often prevent youth from securing and maintaining employment. Dedicated donor funding helps cover critical expenses such as occupational certifications, licensing fees, safety equipment, transportation costs, and training requirements. Through a partnership involving Kennedy House, Paragon Security, and Alex himself, the financial barriers that had previously stood in his way were removed. Paragon funded his security training, First Aid, and CPR certification. Kennedy House funded his security licence and examination fees. Alex contributed by covering the cost of his police background check. The result was life-changing. Today, Alex is employed full-time and has successfully secured his own apartment. With ongoing support from Kennedy House staff, he has transitioned out of the shelter system and is building a future grounded in stability and independence. Alex's story demonstrates what can happen when determination is matched with opportunity. It is not a story of luck. It is a story of partnership, community support, and investments that create lasting change. (To protect their privacy, the youth's name has been changed.) Volunteers, Community Partners & Supporters Strong communities create strong outcomes for children and youth. Throughout the year, volunteers, donors, foundations, service clubs, faith communities, and corporate partners played an essential role in supporting Kennedy House programs. Community supporters donated meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, technology, sponsored camp outings, and provided financial resources. Corporate partners provided volunteer support, mentorship opportunities, career exposure, and employment pathways. Together, these contributions helped create meaningful opportunities that extend far beyond immediate support. Every donated dollar, every volunteer hour, and every partnership helps children and youth move closer to safety, stability, and independence. We are deeply grateful for the individuals and organizations who continue to invest in the potential of young people. Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Creating Spaces Where Everyone Belongs At Kennedy House, equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging are central to our mission and values. Children, youth and families come from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, and lived experiences. We are committed to creating environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported. Throughout the year, we continued strengthening inclusive practices across programs and services. This included creating welcoming program spaces, enhancing representation throughout our environments, and fostering staff learning and development opportunities. By listening, learning, and working collaboratively, we continue building an organizational culture where diversity is celebrated and belonging is prioritized. Creating equitable opportunities allows every individual to thrive. Filling More Than Empty Stomachs Every school day begins with possibility. But for many children in Scarborough East, it can also begin with an empty stomach. Recognizing the growing impact of food insecurity on local families, Kennedy House launched a new Breakfast Program designed to ensure that children have access to nutritious food before heading to school. The program welcomes children ages 4 to 12 and provides healthy breakfasts throughout the school year. For many families, rising food costs have created difficult choices. The Breakfast Program helps ease that burden by offering nourishing meals in a welcoming and inclusive environment where every child is treated with dignity and respect. Whether children choose to enjoy breakfast onsite with friends or pick up a meal on the go, the goal remains the same: ensuring they begin their day ready to learn, grow, and thrive. Each breakfast follows Canada's Food Guide and includes fruit, protein, and dairy options, with Halal and vegetarian choices available to meet the diverse needs of the community. Beyond nutrition, the program is about creating opportunities. Research consistently shows that children who start their day with a healthy meal are better able to focus in class, participate in learning, and develop positive relationships. By removing barriers caused by hunger, Kennedy House is helping children arrive at school with confidence and the energy they need to succeed. The initiative is made possible through the dedication of Kennedy House staff, volunteers, and a partnership with TCHC (Toronto Community Housing Corporation). Together, we are building a sustainable program that addresses an immediate need while strengthening connections within the neighbourhood. As Kennedy House continues to expand its community-based supports, the Breakfast Program reflects our commitment to providing safety, stability, and support for children and youth. It is a simple idea with a powerful impact: when children are nourished, they are better equipped to learn, dream, and build brighter futures. Thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners, more children in Scarborough East will begin each school day knowing that a healthy breakfast and a caring community are waiting for them. That is something worth celebrating, one breakfast at a time. Meet Brad: Santa of Summer Meet Brad, or, as we lovingly refer to him at Kennedy House, Santa of Summer. For years, Brad has been bringing his ice cream truck and his larger-than-life personality to Kennedy House, making regular summer visits to our programs. From the Youth Centre to our residential homes and Emergency Shelter, Brad has become a familiar and much-loved face across Kennedy House. And really, who doesn’t love the sound of an ice cream truck pulling up? Our clients of all ages know exactly what that sound means: a little treat, a little fun, and a whole lot of joy. Whether it’s a dip, a twist, or a slushy, Brad makes every visit feel like an event. But Brad brings so much more than ice cream. He has a personality that is impossible to miss, and impossible not to love. There’s usually a corny joke, a little song, a spontaneous dance, and always, always, always a smile. He has a wonderful way of connecting with everyone he meets, turning what could be a simple ice cream stop into a moment people remember. That’s why we couldn’t imagine celebrating Kennedy House’s 55th anniversary without Brad and his ice cream truck being part of the celebration. Brad joined us not only to serve up his famous summer treats, but also as a guest, and, being Brad, he couldn’t simply stand on the sidelines when he spotted an opportunity to get involved. Naturally, he ended up in the dunk tank. Because that’s Brad. He doesn’t just show up—he joins in. For Kennedy House, Santa of Summer has become part of what makes summer special. His visits remind us that sometimes the simplest things, a cold treat on a hot day, a terrible joke, a song, a laugh, or someone taking the time to make you smile, can make a lasting difference. So, thank you, Brad, for bringing the fun, the laughter, the sprinkles, the chocolate twists, and, most importantly, your incredible spirit to Kennedy House year after year. We’re pretty sure Santa gets December. Summer belongs to Brad. Financial Summary Stewardship and Accountability Kennedy House remains committed to responsible financial management and ensuring resources are used effectively to support children, youth and families. Through the generosity of donors, community partners, foundations, and government funders, we continued delivering programs that create lasting impact across our communities. A detailed audited financial statement is available upon request. Looking Toward the Future As Kennedy House celebrates 55 years of service, we remain committed to creating opportunities that help children, youth, and young adults reach their full potential. In the year ahead, we will continue strengthening our programs and services, deepening community partnerships, and expanding opportunities that foster growth, belonging, independence, and well-being. The need for support continues to evolve, but so does our determination to meet it. Every milestone achieved, every skill learned, every challenge overcome, and every meaningful connection made reflects the impact of investing in people and their potential. Together with our supporters, partners, volunteers, and donors, we will continue bringing potential to light for generations to come. Thank You Every success story in this report began with support from people who believe in the potential of children and youth. To our donors, volunteers, foundations, community groups, service clubs, faith organizations, corporate partners, and government funders, thank you. Your generosity creates safe spaces, nutritious meals, supportive relationships, and pathways to brighter futures. Because of you: Children and youth have safe places where they feel supported and valued. Young people receive nutritious meals and essential supports when they need them most. Participants build confidence, resilience, and important life skills. Children and youth connect with the resources, opportunities, and relationships that help them thrive. Thank you for investing in children and youth and helping bring their potential to light. Donors $500 - $999 Anthony T Menezes Barbara Fairbanks Erica Fisico Eva & Mike John-Paul Rodrigues Roxanne Skilnick Vithooshan Ganesanathan Donors $5,000 - $9,999 Aqueduct Foundation Forest Hill Lions Club O.O.S. Medical Youth and Philanthropy Initiative Canada Donors $150,000 + Donors $1,000 - $4,999 Blue-Mark Management Consultants Cheryl Jaigobin Christopher Carew Marina Attia Northam Realty Advisors Limited rybka Ellard Willson Incorporated St Barnabas Church Chester St. Luke's Church Donors $10,000 - $49,999 Rev. Jeanette Lewis Get Involved The stories, achievements, and milestones shared throughout this report are possible because a community of caring individuals, organizations, partners, and supporters chooses to invest in the potential of children and youth. Every day, Kennedy House works alongside children, youth, and families to provide support, build resilience, strengthen connections, and create opportunities for brighter futures. Together, we are helping young people navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and achieve their goals. There are many ways to make a difference: Donate to help sustain and expand vital programs and services. Volunteer your time, skills, and expertise in support of children and youth. Attend or support events that raise awareness and strengthen community connections. Partner with Kennedy House through your business, workplace, service club, or organization. Advocate for children and youth by sharing our mission and helping raise awareness of their needs and potential. Become a monthly supporter and provide ongoing investment in brighter futures. As we look to the future, we remain committed to meeting emerging needs, building stronger communities, and ensuring that every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive. Join us. Get involved. Be part of the impact. Together, we can continue creating opportunities, fostering hope, and helping children and youth build brighter futures. www.kennedyhouse.org 416-299-3157 info@kennedyhouse.org
