At Choices Shelter and Support Services, we value the dignity and worth of all persons and encourage respect for individual differences, beliefs, and diverse lived experiences. Choices Shelter and Support Services recognizes the systemic barriers of discrimination and disadvantage experienced by Black, Indigenous, people of color, the LGBTQ2S population, people with disabilities, and all other marginalized identities within our community. In addition, we acknowledge that aspects of a person's social and political identities intersect, which further creates unique oppressive and discriminatory experiences.

To address this, Choices Shelter and Support Services is committed to building and fostering a harmonious and inclusive environment for everyone regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, ethnic origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, political or religious affiliation, and disabilities. We aim to treat our residents, community members, staff, and volunteers equitably and fairly and provide services free from discrimination, harassment, and hate.

CHOICES is a truly unique organization. Since our opening in January 2000, the shelter has grown through community support and the dedication of many volunteers.

In 1999, an outreach worker from a local church called all interested citizens to discuss affordable housing and homelessness. From this meeting, several areas of concern were identified. Among them was the rise of youth homelessness. Members of this group were encouraged to find a community-based solution. Thus, the concept of a youth shelter was born. Choices Shelter and Support Services was able to open and operate for the first year through generous community donations and volunteerism. From this humble beginning, Choices Shelter and Support Services has developed into a leader in the needs of the homeless youth of Orangeville and the area.

As a true grassroots organization, our programs have evolved to meet the needs of homeless and at-risk youth between the ages of 16 and 24. We offer a safe haven for youth who would otherwise be living in less-than-desirable circumstances. Before youth came to us, many have "couch surfed" with friends in their homes, slept in laundromats or abandoned buildings, and lived on the street sleeping in local parks, under bridges, or in local forests. This tragedy is occurring more frequently worldwide and is now within our community.

As CHOICES continued to grow over the years, the Board of Directors determined it was time to address a rising need in Dufferin County; providing unhoused men a safe place to go. In January 2022, Choices brought a new home and worked tirelessly to renovate and prepare for the opening of Choices Men’s Shelter.

The individuals that come to CHOICES receive immediate shelter, nutritious meals, access to shower facilities, and referrals to local service providers based on their needs and goals. But more importantly, they have someone to listen to them and hopefully

point them in the right direction.

Choices Shelter and Support Services is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of services to youth and men who are unhoused in Dufferin County. As part of our unwavering commitment to at-risk individuals in our community, Choices actively participates alongside our community partners on various committees and boards. Together, we strive to find innovative solutions to address mental health, addiction, wellness, and social justice challenges prevalent in our community.

Choices is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of individuals with a broad range of experience in management, social services, finance, and IT.

• Chair: Keith Ward
• Treasurer: Randy Beyers
• Secretary: Chris Russell
• Director:Judy Yack
• Director:Paul Charbonneau
• Director:Anthony Irwin
• Director:Sarah Sawchyn
• Director:Shannon Gander