2025-2026 Annual Report - Family Transition PLace

COLLABORATION

2025-2026 Annual Report Safety. Support. Hope.

foreword

As I reflect on this past year, I am struck by both the pace of change around us and the steady, unwavering commitment of our team to meet it with compassion, integrity, and responsibility. The communities we serve continue to grow and evolve, and with that growth comes both increased need and new opportunities to strengthen how we respond.

This year held special meaning as we recognized our 40th anniversary. It was an opportunity to look back with pride at the generations of staff, volunteers, community partners and donors who have shaped Family Transition Place (FTP) into what it is today. More than anything, it was a reminder that our work has always been rooted in connection and walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Our community continues to grow, and the economic pressures facing families today are great. We’re seeing increased demand and more complex needs, which makes it even more important to stay grounded in our values and strategic pillars (more on page 8). Our commitment to Equitable and Empowering Services pushes us to keep listening, adapting, and ensuring our supports are responsive, while at the same time, the Caring Culture pillar reminds us that how we support our colleagues matters just as much as the work we do externally.

A major emphasis this year has been on our partnerships. Our focus on Community Connectedness has deepened collaboration across sectors, from our involvement in the Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub Dufferin and Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Care Days to the Sunrise Program for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors, to our work with Safe Centre of Peel (SCoP) supporting Caledon-based services. These partnerships go beyond working side by side, they’re about re-envisioning service models and building a more coordinated, accessible system of care for our community.

We’re also grateful for investments that are helping move this work forward, including the generosity of our donors whose ongoing support helps strengthen and sustain services across the organization. Increased annualized funding for our anti-human trafficking work is strengthening specialized supports for those impacted by exploitation. Enhanced three-year funding for our Family Court Support Program is providing greater stability for individuals navigating complex family legal situations during incredibly vulnerable times. Together, these investments support our focus on Balanced Growth, helping us build capacity in thoughtful, sustainable ways.

At the same time, we continue to navigate broader financial pressures and rising costs that impact how we deliver services. While we are proud of the progress we’ve made, we remain mindful and dedicated to addressing the ongoing need to balance sustainability with our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible supports. This requires ongoing reflection, exploring how we can align with community partners and careful decision-making so we can focus on what matters most, serving the individuals who need our support.

At the heart of our work continues to be the families and individuals we serve. It is a privilege to witness their strength and resilience as they rebuild their lives; courage that continues to ground and inspire everything we do. At the same time, none of this work happens without the people who stand behind it. Deep appreciation and gratitude go out to our staff, who show up each day with compassion, and professionalism; to our Board of Directors, for their steady leadership; and to our donors, volunteers and community partners, whose support allows us to reach further each year. Your passion and commitment have remained constant through every stage of our 40-year journey, and you are the reason we are able to offer hope to those who need it most.

Warmly,

Lynette

Executive Director Family Transition Place

welcome message

As we reflect on the past year, it is impossible not to recognize the incredible people, partnerships, and shared commitment that continue to strengthen FTP and the important work it does within our community.

While the agency’s 40 Years of Hope anniversary celebration concluded at the end of 2025, the milestone provided an important opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact FTP has had over the past four decades. It served as a reminder that the strength of the organization has always come from the collective efforts of people working together—staff, volunteers, community partners, donors, leadership, and supporters—all united by a common purpose: providing safety, support, advocacy, and hope to those who need it most.

Throughout this year, the dedication and professionalism of the outstanding staff continued to shine. Guided by our exceptional Executive Director, Lynette Pole-Langdon, alongside a strong leadership team, FTP remains focused on delivering compassionate, responsive, and high-quality services across our community. The work carried out every day by staff is both impactful and inspiring, often during some of the most difficult moments in the lives of the individuals and families they support.

The Board of Directors is honoured to serve as advocates for the organization and to work in partnership with staff and leadership in advancing the agency’s mission. Through strong governance, strategic planning, and responsible oversight, the Board helps ensure FTP remains sustainable, accountable, and prepared to meet the evolving needs of our community. The ongoing commitment of donors, funding partners, volunteers, and community organizations also remains essential to the agency’s success. FTP is strengthened by the relationships and partnerships built throughout

the community, and by the many people who believe in the importance of ensuring these services remain available and accessible.

Meaningful work and lasting impact are never achieved alone. It is through collaboration, shared passion, and collective commitment that FTP continues to evolve, respond, and provide critical support to individuals and families across our region.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you to everyone who continues to play a role in advancing the mission of FTP and helping build a stronger, safer, and more compassionate community.

With gratitude,

Laura Bryan Kirk Interim Board Chair

Scan the QR code to read more about our amazing board members.

our board

FTP's volunteer board brings diverse experience and a shared commitment to ending gender-based violence. Directors act as community ambassadors and provide strategic leadership to advance FTP's mission and strategic plan.

The board oversees the executive director, who reports on organizational activities at monthly meetings. The board is also responsible for recruiting and hiring for this role, and conducts an annual self-evaluation to support continuous growth. Over the past year, directors have participated in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging training alongside staff.

Two standing committees—finance and governance—inform board decisions through recommendations. The governance committee leads board recruitment, intentionally seeking candidates who fill gaps in skills, perspective, and diversity each year. Directors serve two-year terms, with a maximum of three terms. Monthly meetings are held at FTP's Orangeville location, with hybrid and remote options available.

GOVERNANCE WORK

During the 2025–2026 year, FTP's governance committee continued to support strong governance practices and effective board leadership in alignment with the organization's mission and strategic priorities. The committee remained focused on ensuring the board has the structures, policies, and processes needed to effectively support the organization and the communities it serves.

This year, the committee focused on board recruitment and succession planning, policy review and modernization, board and committee effectiveness, and ongoing support for governance best practices. Significant work was undertaken to strengthen board recruitment efforts, support leadership continuity, and review governance processes related to board orientation, evaluation, and executive director performance oversight.

In October 2025, FTP's board installed a commemorative bench in Alexandra Park in honour of retired Executive Director Norah Kennedy.

Leadership transitions were supported within the board of directors, with Sharyn Ayliffe continuing in the role of former board chair and Laura Bryan Kirk, previously vice-chair, stepping into the role of interim board chair. Catherine McLean joined the board as a new member and assumed the role of interim vice-chair.

The board was also pleased to welcome new members Judy La Penna, Priya Ralhan, Tania Rooney, and Debbie VanWyck, who each bring valuable experience and perspectives to the organization and its governance work.

The committee would also like to recognize and sincerely thank Tony Maxwell for his six years of dedicated service on the board of directors, along with his longstanding involvement and support of FTP. His thoughtful leadership, commitment to the organization, and advocacy for the community have made a meaningful impact over many years. Throughout the year, the governance committee remained committed to thoughtful, collaborative governance and to supporting a strong and engaged board of directors that reflects the values and mission of FTP.

FTP’s Governance Committee Members: Sharyn Ayliffe, Laura Bryan Kirk, Jennifer Innis (Chair), Jocelyn Johnston (Vice Chair), Judy La Penna, Tony Maxwell, Tania Rooney, Debbie VanWyck. Update provided by Jocelyn Johnston.

For 40 years, FTP has been a lifeline for women and their children across Dufferin and Caledon offering safety, support, and a path forward for those affected by abuse, sexual violence, or homelessness.

Whatever someone needs on their journey to healing—a safe place to stay, legal or housing guidance, or professional counselling—we meet them with warmth, compassion, and expertise.

Our emergency shelter at 20 Bredin Parkway in Orangeville provides 12 units that can house up to 28 women (16+) and their children at any one time. Individual, family, and group counselling are available to shelter residents, as well as to community clients through our Orangeville location and satellite offices in Shelburne and Bolton.

For those ready for the next step, our second- and third-stage housing programs offer five community houses where women live independently—supported by our dedicated staff and a full range of wraparound services.

Beyond our housing portfolio, FTP offers a 24/7 Support Line, addictions counselling, sexual violence and abuse support, and workshops for women, men, and children. Our rural outreach, transitional support, mobile crisis, and housing services extend our reach to those who need us most.

Each year, thousands of youth also benefit from our healthy relationship education program, delivered by FTP educators in Grade 5–8 classrooms across our region.

ABOUT US OUR VALUES

COMPASSION:

The human quality of understanding a person’s strengths and vulnerabilities along with the authentic desire to offer acceptance and support. We show commitment to this value by actively listening to one another and by showing respect and care to all people, especially to those we serve and support.

EQUITY:

We recognize that in order to achieve equity, we must embrace diversity and recognize that creating an inclusive environment requires intent, self-awareness and investment in training, time, effort and energy. We aim to create a safer environment where everyone can belong.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

It is our responsibility to be actively involved in our community. We commit to working with partners and citizens to create a community that is welcoming and supportive of all. We strive to make a positive difference in our world through advocacy, leadership, coaching and mentoring, and intentional environmental practices.

integrity:

Upholding the fundamental ethical, organizational and institutional principles of FTP in a transparent, trustworthy, honest and consistent manner.

OUR VISION AND MISSION

our VISION

FTP primarily provides services to women and children who have experienced abuse. We know that abuse has wide ranging impact on peoples’ lives in the community and society in general, so we aspire to:

• A community free of abuse where all individuals are treated with compassion, equity and respect, and live their lives in healthy relationships.

our mission is to support the holistic well-being of those affected by gender-based violence and promote healthy relationships and community, through education

Therefore, we commit to:

Providing SAFETY :

• Providing a safe shelter for those identifying as women and their children.

• Providing referrals and options to help ensure the safety of all individuals who reach out to us for help.

• Creating safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces.

Providing SUPPORT :

• Providing respectful and compassionate counselling and supports to those who have experienced trauma and/ or abuse so that they are empowered as they move forward on their life journey.

Inspiring HOPE :

• Educating to promote healthy relationships and end the cycle of abuse.

• Advocating for systemic change; always learning and innovating to create positive impacts on the lives of the diverse individuals we serve.

• Living and promoting the values of integrity, compassion, equity and social responsibility at all times (within the agency and community).

• Providing responsible stewardship of resources and our community’s goodwill through accountable and transparent processes.

strategic plan (2023-2028)

As we prepared to enter the final year of our current Strategic Plan, it became clear that the work outlined within the plan remains highly relevant and that there continues to be meaningful opportunity for growth and development across the organization. The pillars and goals established through the plan continue to guide decision-making and align closely with the evolving needs of our community and sector.

With support from the Board of Directors and the leadership team, the decision was made to extend the current Strategic Plan through 2028. This extension will allow the organization to continue building on existing priorities while responding to emerging opportunities through HART Hub Dufferin (see more on page 20), Ontario Health Team collaborations, and broader community partnerships. These initiatives support continued focus on integrated service delivery, system collaboration, and strengthening community connections.

Over the next two years, the organization will continue focusing on several key themes across the strategic pillars, including strengthening equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging practices; enhancing staff engagement and organizational culture; evolving programs and services to better meet client needs; increasing community awareness and prevention efforts; and deepening partnerships across the health, housing, violence against women, and social service sectors.

The organization will also continue evaluating operational structures, staffing models, and infrastructure needs to ensure long-term sustainability and fiscal responsibility as community needs, funding priorities, and economic conditions continue to evolve. This includes reviewing opportunities for efficiencies through hub models, technology improvements, fundraising strategies, and the ongoing needs for satellite office space.

Extending the Strategic Plan allows the organization to remain grounded in the strong foundation already established while creating flexibility to adapt, collaborate, and continue moving forward in a changing community landscape.

CARING CULTURE

- Given that people bring their best selves to their work when they feel valued and respected, FTP will continue to foster a culture of caring that nurtures equity, belonging, connection and well-being to cultivate engaged and empowered staff, volunteers and board directors.

equitable and empowering services - Given the diversity and complexity in the needs of the people we support, FTP will provide safety, support and hope through responsive and upstream skillbuilding services that address the whole person and the evolving needs of the community.

Community connectedness - Given FTP’s commitment to our vision of a community where everyone lives with respect, equity and in healthy relationships, FTP will continue to intentionally partner and collaborate in open and meaningful dialogue to affect positive change in our community.

balanced growth - Given the increasing needs for FTP services in the community and continuous evolution and growth within the organization, FTP is committed to developing foundational, equitable and sustainable Agency infrastructure that will maintain our level of excellence and provide stability to best serve both FTP and the community.

Over the past year, FTP continued its commitment to deepening diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) across all areas of the organization. Recognizing that this work is ongoing, the agency focused on creating meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection, and dialogue while continuing to strengthen how DEIB principles are embedded within organizational culture, service delivery, and community engagement.

A key focus this year was creating intentional spaces and opportunities for staff to engage in open and meaningful conversations that challenge assumptions, increase awareness, and foster learning. Employee-led discussions and learning opportunities were incorporated into twice-monthly virtual Connections meetings, along with space being made at team meetings, and at our all-staff gatherings. These sessions created opportunities for staff to reflect, while learning from one another’s experiences and perspectives. Feedback from staff highlighted that these conversations and trainings were valuable and contributed to a stronger sense of awareness and understanding across the organization. The organization also continued to strengthen its communication practices through a DEIB lens. As part of the broader communications strategy, both our internal and external materials were reviewed and developed to

better reflect the diverse experiences and identities of the individuals and communities served by FTP. This included updates to agency brochures, marketing materials, and visual representation to ensure greater inclusivity and accessibility in how the organization communicates with the community.

This year also included important work to better understand barriers to service and identify opportunities for growth. Through a 12-week research project completed in partnership with a research student from the Research Analyst Graduate Program at Humber College, FTP explored the current state of service delivery through a DEIB lens. The project included engagement with staff, clients, community partners, and surveys focused on accessibility and service barriers, helping to inform future priorities and actions. In addition, FTP was successful in securing grant funding through the Brampton and Caledon Community Foundation to support an external accessibility audit of our shelter services, led by Sawchuk Accessible Solutions. This work will help guide the organization in identifying opportunities and spaces to enhance accessibility, inclusion, and equity across programs, services, and organizational practices moving forward.

40 th anniversary

This past year marked an extraordinary chapter in FTP's history. In 2025, we celebrated 40 years of providing safety, support, and hope to individuals and families across Dufferin and Caledon—a milestone that called for both deep reflection and heartfelt celebration.

On September 18, our community answered that call. More than 200 guests gathered at our 20 Bredin location for our 40th Anniversary Open House, filling our building with energy, warmth, and a shared sense of purpose. Among those who joined us were community members, dignitaries, donors, funders, partner organizations, former staff, volunteers, board members, and clients—each one a part of the story we were there to honour.

Guests were welcomed on staff-led tours of our facility, including two open shelter rooms, offering a rare and meaningful look at the spaces where our work unfolds every day. They had the opportunity to connect with team members from each of our program areas, explore a special display of mementos and memories spanning four decades, and enjoy refreshments generously provided by our community partners. It was a day of reflection, celebration, and deep gratitude—and a powerful reminder of how much this community has invested in our mission.

From Emergency Shelter to Full-Spectrum Support

When FTP first opened its doors in 1985, the landscape for supporting survivors of domestic violence looked very different. Resources were scarce, public awareness was limited, and coordinated, comprehensive services were rare. What began as a small emergency shelter has grown, over four decades, into a full-spectrum service provider offering 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, individual counselling, housing and legal support, rural outreach, and community and youth education programs.

That growth has been shaped by the individuals and families we serve—their resilience has guided us—and sustained by a community that has never stopped believing in this work. The open house was an opportunity to honour that shared journey and to show our gratitude to everyone who has contributed along the way.

The Work That Remains

The celebration was also a moment of somber reflection. The urgency of our work was brought into sharp focus in the days that followed the open house: both shelter rooms that guests had toured were occupied the very next day. All 12 units in our emergency shelter are currently full—a reality that, while sobering, is not uncommon for us.

Domestic violence and homelessness continue to touch lives across every corner of our community. The demand for safe spaces and supportive services has not eased, and neither has the importance of the work we do each day. One of the most meaningful moments of the evening came when guests—moved by what they had seen and heard — began asking, "What more can we do to help?" That question captured something essential about our community's spirit, and it energized our entire team.

Looking Ahead

As we mark this anniversary in our annual report, we do so with both pride and resolve. Forty years of service is worth celebrating. And yet, we know the next chapter matters just as much as everything that has come before.

Sustaining our programs—the counselling services, the outreach support, the youth education initiatives that help prevent violence before it starts—depends on the continued generosity of this community. As demand for our services grows, so does the importance of the donors, volunteers, funders, and partners who make it all possible. Every contribution, at every level, helps ensure that FTP remains a safe haven for those who need it most.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey—those who were with us at the beginning, those who joined us along the way, and those who are walking alongside us now. Because of your support, FTP has been a beacon of hope for 40 years.

COLLABORATION in ACTION

At FTP, we believe meaningful change happens through collaboration. Together with our community partners, we support individuals and families facing gender-based violence, housing instability, mental health challenges, and other complex circumstances by reducing barriers and creating pathways to thrive.

The Sunrise Program

The Sunrise Program partnership brings together FTP, Dufferin Child & Family Services (DCAFS), and Headwaters Health Care Centre (HHCC) to provide coordinated, compassionate support for individuals affected by sexual and domestic violence in Dufferin County. Through a collaborative, trauma-informed approach, survivors can access medical care, counselling, advocacy, and ongoing support in one connected system, reducing barriers and improving access to services. HHCC provides emergency medical care and forensic evidence collection when needed, DCAFS supports youth, and FTP supports individuals aged 16 and older.

Care Days in Dufferin County

Care Days in Dufferin County, led by the Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Ontario Health Team (of which FTP is a member), connect individuals and families with health, wellness, and social support services in one convenient location. Participants can access healthcare providers, mental health resources, social services, screenings, referrals, and information about community programs. By bringing services directly into communities across Dufferin County, Care Days help reduce barriers to care and strengthen connections to local supports and resources.

Safe Centre of Peel

The Safe Centre of Peel (SCoP), led by Catholic Family Services Peel-Dufferin, brings together community partners including Peel Regional Police, Victim Services of Peel, FTP, child welfare agencies, legal services, and health providers to support individuals and families affected by violence, abuse, and trauma. By offering coordinated, trauma-informed services through a centralized model, SCoP reduces barriers to care and helps survivors access the support they need more easily. As an external partner serving Caledon from our Bolton office, FTP contributes specialized gender-based violence services to this collaborative network.

Second Stage Housing Program

FTP’s Second Stage Housing Program, delivered in partnership with Dufferin County, provides safe, affordable transitional housing and wraparound supports for women and women with children leaving situations of domestic violence. Through three community-based homes, the program supports up to 15 individuals at a time, offering rent-geared-toincome housing for up to four years to help clients achieve long-term safety, stability, and independence. By addressing housing and support needs together, the program helps survivors rebuild their lives with confidence and dignity.

Education and Prevention

Written by Tabitha Wells

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent gender-based violence—and at FTP, it's a commitment that runs deep. From elementary classrooms to high school gymnasiums, from parent workshops to sports fields, FTP's education programs meet young people where they are, building the knowledge, skills, and selfawareness needed to foster healthy, respectful relationships. Underpinning all of it is collaboration—with schools, school boards, coaches, mentors, and community partners—because lasting culture change doesn't happen in a single conversation or a single organization. It happens when an entire community commits to the work together.

Youth Education

Youth education continues to be an important part of gender-based violence prevention at FTP. Running for more than 20 years, the program consists of three parts: an eight-week course for students grades 5 to 8, one-off presentations in high schools, and evening workshops for parents. These programs have reached an estimated 50,000 students across Dufferin and Caledon, all delivered by two full-time staff educators. Combined, they provide interactive, age-specific programming designed to build the foundation for healthy, respectful relationships.

Each year of the grades 5 through 8 program builds on the last, guiding students through understanding stereotypes and empathy, communication and emotional regulation, and personal resilience and decision-making. These elements help students learn to identify the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships, creating positive social connections and helping to improve selfesteem and empathy. High school presentations cover domestic violence, sexual assault, flirting, consent, and harassment in a focused, 90-minute session while parent

workshops explore topics such as bullying, social media, and children’s mental health and wellness.

The strength of this program is driven as much by its relationships as its content. Schools in Dufferin and Caledon book up to a year or more in advance, with an ongoing waitlist throughout the year. The program has also been adopted by other communities who are now incorporating it into education programs. As it’s reached more than two-decades in our schools, some former students are now teachers—and still carrying their youth program keepsake cards into classrooms of their own.

While statistics tell the story of a positive, lasting impact from participation in programs like this, it’s the participant response that brings the data to life. It’s students who wouldn’t normally get involved in class that are paying attention and joining in, students who share how the program helped grow their self-esteem, the stories of students who recognize unhealthy behaviours with the peers or families and begin to make changes in their own lives. Perhaps most tellingly, the families who call FTP's crisis/info line after their child brought their

learning home and asked whether what was happening in their house was healthy.

The program is funded almost entirely through FTP’s general community fundraising, with a modest costrecovery contribution from participating schools. The program’s reach continues to grow due to collaboration with the local schools and school boards—that reach is only limited by funding and resources.

FTP’s youth educators describe the program as a living, breathing organism, reviewed and refreshed each summer to reflect new trends and emerging challenges our students face in their lives. Topics like cyberbullying and human trafficking, for example, have been added over the years as the community’s needs have evolved.

Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Training in Schools

The Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Training program is dedicated to challenging one of the most pervasive misconceptions surrounding human trafficking: the belief that it only happens somewhere else, to someone else. The reality is that trafficking can occur in any community, affecting young people who may be vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation. Launched in 2023, the program brings critical education and awareness to students in Grades 7 and 10, age groups identified as being particularly vulnerable to trafficking. Since its inception, the program has reached more than 5,000 students throughout Dufferin County, empowering young people with the knowledge and tools to recognize risks and protect themselves.

students who may be triggered by the content. The discussions are impactful and meaningful, and in some cases, students have recognized they may be in a situation where trafficking could be occurring or recognize warning signs in their own relationships.

Teaching in a single-presentation format can be challenging, especially with heavy topics like human trafficking, because it does not provide the same level of relationship building as longer programs. The 2025/2026 school year brought meaningful validation to the program, as students who were in the first cohort of grade 7s attending the sessions were now in grade 10, attending again. Notably, these students have demonstrated an understanding of the issues that confirm a single, intensive session can create real, lasting retention, opening the door for more in-depth conversations and questions.

Coaching Leadership, Equity and Respect (CLEAR)

Shifting the behaviours and beliefs that lead to genderbased violence begins with prevention education—and that's exactly what CLEAR provides. Grant funding was made available to Interval House of Hamilton through the National Action Plan and programming was delivered to selected organizations like FTP. The 12-week, evidencebased program trains coaches, teachers, and mentors to lead weekly conversations on respect, consent, bystander intervention, peer leadership, and more.

FTP became a certified delivery agency for the program approximately two years ago and has since been working to bring CLEAR to local school boards and sports organizations. Commitments have been established with the Shelburne Vets Lacrosse Association and the Hill Academy, with delivery planned for the future.

Through one-off engaging presentations, students learn how traffickers identify and exploit unmet needs, build trust, and manipulate vulnerabilities. By fostering awareness, critical thinking, and open dialogue, the program equips youth to recognize warning signs, seek support, and help prevent exploitation before it occurs. In doing so, it helps create safer communities and ensures young people understand that human trafficking is not a distant issue, it is one that requires awareness, prevention, and action close to home.

The curriculum is delivered by one educator, funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, who is accompanied by a mobile crisis counsellor to support

The goal of CLEAR is not a single conversation, but a sustained culture shift. Coaches, mentors, and teachers are uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact—they already hold the trust and attention of the young people they work with.

our impact

Emergency Shelter 82 Women and 44 Children

Second Stage Housing 9 Women and 9 Children

Third Stage Housing 2 Women and 5 Children

Support Within Housing/Outreach 37 Women

Crisis/Info Line 4,989 Calls

Woman Abuse Counselling 253 Women

Sexual Abuse Counselling 142 Women and 16 Men

Child Witness Program 32 Women and 47 Children

Transitional Support Services 204 Women and 4 Men

Integrated Crisis Services 82 Women and 3 Men

Addictions Counselling 58 Women

Rural Response Program 121 Women

Youth Education Program 1,791 Students

Sexual Violence Education 805 Participants

Caring Dads Program 4 Men

Housing Allowance Program 17 Women/Families

Service users with cats (housing programs) 11 Women/Families

Services users with dogs (housing programs) 23 Women/Families

We will continue adapting our programs and services to accommodate the needs of our clients and our community to support lives free from abuse.

risks & challenges

In 2024, the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) introduced an upgraded Risk Assessment for Violence Against Women funded agencies. This Risk Assessment questionnaire has 41 questions across the following eight categories:

• Human Resources/People

• Financial

• Information & Information Technology

• Program Design & Delivery

• Legal

• Emergency Management

• Governance

• Reputational

AGENCY RISK: LOW RISK

While the MCCSS Risk Assessment was not required to be completed this year, FTP annually re-evaluates our position using their assessment tool to ensure we are still maintaining the same “Low” risk rating as initially obtained and verified. The tool confirmed that FTP continues to operate in the “Low” risk category. In addition, through our prior accreditation processes, FTP had developed practices that allow us to examine policies and procedures with an in-depth focus to ensure that risk management continues to be an agency priority.

FTP’s executive director also presents a “Stoplight” risk assessment dashboard to the board of directors on a quarterly basis with risk mitigation plans, ensuring the board is fully aware of areas of potential concern. Like last year, current areas for mitigation include funding gaps, organizational transition and housing/economic factors affecting the women and individuals we serve.

CHALLENGES:

In the face of rising operating costs, we remain committed to identifying strategies to retain staff while managing ongoing funding gaps. Deficit budgets continue to present a significant challenge. This year, however, the impact was partially offset by new annualized funding, together with three-year project funding. We were also fortunate to receive increased donations from our generous donors and supporters, which helped reduce funding gaps and enabled us to continue delivering the essential services our community relies upon.

Organizational transition continued throughout the year, including the departure of one of our long-serving leadership colleagues, Lyn Allen, who chose to pursue other opportunities. In keeping with our commitment to building a sustainable organization, we revised the leadership structure to better support the current needs of our programs while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Women and other clients continue to encounter significant barriers to securing safe and affordable housing within our community. Both the shelter and our second-stage housing remain at capacity, creating a bottleneck in which current clients face difficulty transitioning to longer-term housing while new clients wait to access the services they require. We continue to work in partnership with Dufferin County, Services and Housing in the Province (SHIP), and other community supporters to advocate for housing subsidies that will help offset rising rental costs for clients.

FUNDRAISING & EVENTS

FUNDRAISING EVENTS

In addition to grants, provincial, municipal and federal funding, individual and legacy donations, FTP also receives generous community support through both third-party and fundraising events hosted annually by FTP.

Each March, FTP hosts its annual fundraising event in honour of International Women's Day (IWD).

IWD Celebration Breakfast Event

On March 5, 2026, FTP welcomed nearly 300 guests to its first-ever International Women's Day Celebration Breakfast at Hockley Valley Resort—a reimagining of the organization's long-standing annual luncheon. The morning featured a performance by

The Brave Canoe, a chair yoga session presented by GoYoga Orangeville, and a showcase of FTP's school-based youth education programming, raising nearly $80,000 for FTP's shelter, counselling, and education programs. As one of FTP's primary fundraising initiatives for its Youth Education program—which is largely supported by fundraised dollars— the event's success reflects the ongoing generosity of the Dufferin and Caledon communities. The event was proudly presented by GoYoga Orangeville, RBC Royal Bank, and Roud Wealth Management RBC Dominion Securities.

AWARENESS EVENTS

International Overdose Awareness Day

FTP, a founding member of the Dufferin-Caledon Drug Strategy Committee, joined the community on August 28, 2025, to mark International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31). The event brought together local residents at St. Mark's Anglican Church for a health fair and speaker program aimed at reducing stigma, honouring those lost to overdose, and exploring community-led solutions.

Take Back the Night

On October 2, 2025, FTP hosted a Take Back the Night and Sisters in Spirit Day event at its Orangeville location. The gathering brought community members together for guest speakers and a 2-kilometre empowerment march to stand

against gender-based violence and to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people (MMIWG2S+).

Though longtime co-host Georgian College was unable to participate due to a faculty strike, the event remained a meaningful expression of community solidarity and FTP's ongoing commitment to a safer, more equitable future.

Wrapped in Courage Campaign

Each November, FTP proudly participates in Woman Abuse Prevention Month through the province-wide Wrapped in Courage campaign, an initiative led by the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses (OAITH) encouraging communities to wear purple in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence. FTP coordinated flag-raising ceremonies and proclamations with local municipalities in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25th), and promoted the Shine the Light on Woman Abuse initiative, inviting residents to display purple lights as a visible show of support. Together, these efforts help FTP raise awareness and reinforce that survivors in Dufferin and Caledon are not alone. This will be an annual initiative.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

On December 4, 2025, FTP hosted an outdoor candlelight ceremony at its Orangeville location to mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The gathering honoured the 14 women killed at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal on December 6, 1989, and reflected on the countless lives lost to gender-based violence since. Executive Director Lynette Pole-Langdon opened the ceremony with words of reflection, followed by remarks from an FTP staff member, a volunteer, and a long-time donor and advocate. An online observance was also shared on December 6th to extend the commemoration to the broader community.

community donations

THIRD-PARTY FUNDRAISING

Third-party events are a powerful expression of community commitment to FTP's mission. When local businesses, organizations, and individuals choose to fundraise on our behalf, they do more than raise critical dollars—they help spread awareness, build connections, and demonstrate that ending genderbased violence is a cause the whole community stands behind. Community-led third-party fundraising contributed nearly $60,000 to FTP's programs and services this past year, with supporters going above and beyond—from local popcorn sales to golf tournaments to a trek in Cambodia.

MONTHLY DONORS

Monthly donors provide FTP with a stable and dependable source of income. By committing to a recurring gift, these supporters provide us with predictable, reliable income that allows us to plan ahead, maintain consistent services, and respond to the needs of those we serve—without interruption. Every monthly donation, regardless of size, helps ensure that our shelter, counselling, and education programs are there when people need them most. In 2025–2026, our monthly giving program—which includes staff contributions made through bi-weekly payroll deductions— generated over $25,000. We continue to look for ways to grow this vital program.

COMMUNITY DONATIONS

The communities we serve show up for FTP in countless ways throughout the year. From financial donations to gifts in kind, local businesses and individuals give generously and consistently—donating everything from household essentials for shelter clients to food, supplies, and so much more. These contributions, large and small, make a profound difference in the lives of those we support, and we are deeply grateful for every one of them. A few of our many valued supporters are pictured on this page.

major donors

The following donors made transformative contributions of $5,000 or more this past year, directly supporting FTP's essential programs and services. Their generosity—alongside the ongoing support of our broader donor community and funding partners—ensures that we can continue to be there for those who need us most.

THANK YOU TO:

Airlie Foundation

Dufferin Community Foundation – Cedar Fund

E. Hofmann Plastics Canada Inc.

Langill, Mary Jane and Irving Morrell, Sarah and Wade

Morningview Foundation

And five anonymous donors.

Pitt, Buddy and Melody

Royal LePage RCR Realty

Royal LePage Shelter Foundation

SG Sales Corporation

TACC Construction Ltd.

Wishart, Ken and Shelley

We respect the wishes of all of our donors and use donated funds responsibly. These significant donations—along with many more through the generosity of our community—have resulted in an unexpected year-end surplus. This surplus will be added to our reserve fund to ensure the stability of FTP's programs and services.

volunteers

FTP is fortunate to be supported by a dedicated group of volunteers who contribute their time and expertise across our board, governance and finance committees, program development, and annual fundraising events. Their commitment to the safety and well-being of the women and children we serve is invaluable, and their efforts help sustain the programs and services our community depends on. We are deeply grateful to each and every one of them. *Volunteers recognized with milestone service awards this year appear in bold below.

THANK YOU TO:

Christine Andrade

Sharyn Ayliffe - 5 years

Amrita Baraya

Meghan Bond

Laura Bryan Kirk

Maureen Childs

Jackie Faulconbridge

Jennifer Innis

Jocelyn Johnston

Manda Jones

Sharon Jordan

Brenda Laird

Judy La Penna

Sarah Lodeserto

Catherine McLean

Jill McPherson

Tony Maxwell

Tanya Meilleur

Priya Ralhan

Brian Rooney

Tania Rooney

*Only those who have consented to publishing have been named.

Andrea Stewart

Gillian Vanderburgh

Debbie VanWyck

Tabitha Wells

Christina Zurowski

HART Hub dufferin

Supporting Our Community: Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub Dufferin

In Dufferin County, access to mental health, addictions, and housing support has long been a challenge for the most vulnerable members of our community. The HART Hub Dufferin—a new integrated service hub—is changing that by bringing comprehensive, coordinated care under one roof.

What is the HART Hub?

The HART Hub is a low-barrier, person-centred resource for community members experiencing homelessness or housing instability, mental health or substance use challenges, complex health needs, or difficulty navigating health and social services—including those without a family doctor or nurse practitioner.

Operating from its main site at the Edelbrock Centre in Orangeville, with a satellite location at the Mel Lloyd Centre in Shelburne, the HART Hub Dufferin is available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m.—5 p.m. A mobile clinic will further extend its reach across the county.

A Wraparound Approach to Care

What sets the HART Hub apart is its integrated, wraparound model. Rather than referring clients from one agency to the next, the Hub brings services together—

guided by principles of trauma-informed care, cultural safety, and equity. Upon arrival, clients are welcomed, assessed, and connected to the level of support that best fits their needs.

Services available at the Hub include mental health counselling and crisis intervention, addictions support and connections to treatment, practical housing assistance and tenancy support, primary care and nursing, traumainformed therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), employment guidance, peer support from professionals with lived experience, transitional beds, and access to supportive housing with rent supplements.

Our Role

FTP is a proud partner of HART Hub Dufferin. Our five fulltime counsellors are based at HART Hub sites and provide support to individuals accessing the hub with their mental health, addictions, and housing needs. Our collaboration reflects our shared commitment to wraparound, clientcentred and trauma informed service. Together, we are strengthening community collaboration to support coordinated and streamlined access to services and support a more connected and healthier community.

For more information about the HART Hub Dufferin, call 226-259-HART (4278) or email info@harthubdufferin.ca.

community partners

FTP is committed to collaboration and investment with community partners. Community agencies and businesses collaborate and work together to support the vulnerable members of our community who need support.

Our partners include, but are not limited to, the following agencies and services:

Bethell Hospice

Caledon\Dufferin Victim Services

Caledon OPP

Canadian Mental Health Association Peel-Dufferin

Catholic Family Services Peel-Dufferin

Choices Shelter & Support Services

Community Living Dufferin

Compass Community Church

County of Dufferin

Dufferin Area Family Health Team

Dufferin Child & Family Services

Dufferin County Canadian Black Association

Dufferin County Paramedic Service

Dufferin OPP

Fiddle Foot Farm Community Supported Agriculture

Habitat for Humanity ReStore Orangeville

HART Hub Dufferin

Headwaters Health Care Centre

Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Ontario Health Team

Interval House of Hamilton

Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses

Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres

Ontario Early Years Centre

Orangeville Food Bank and Dufferin Food Share

Orangeville Public Library

Polycultural Immigrant & Community Services

Raising the Roof

Safe Centre of Peel

Services and Housing In the Province

Theatre Orangeville

The Brave Canoe

The Salvation Army

Town of Caledon

Town of Grand Valley

Town of Mono

Town of Orangeville

Town of Shelburne

Township of Amaranth

Township of East Garafraxa

Township of Melancthon

Township of Mulmur

Upper Grand District School Board

Victim Witness Assistance Program

Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health

financial report

Audited financial statements are available upon request.

*We ended the year with a surplus, which will be added to our reserve fund.

The reserve fund was established to ensure the stability of FTP’s programs and services.

If you have questions about our reserve fund, please contact our Executive Director, Lynette Pole-Langdon: 519-942-4122, ext. 234 lynette@familytransitionplace.ca.

FTP’s program and service delivery is made possible by the stable funding and continued support of:

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WE THANK OUR FUNDERS, DONORS, AND SUPPORTERS FOR ensuring THE ONGOING FINANCIAL VIABILITY NECESSARY TO DELIVER CRITICAL SERVICES IN OUR COMMUNITY.

connect with us

DO YOU NEED SUPPORT?

Do you need information about woman abuse counselling, shelter, or have general inquiries about how to help someone, including yourself?

24-HOUR support line

519-941-4357 | 905-584-4357 | 1-800-265-9178

Voicemail: 519-942-4122

Text: 519-278-5410

Email: support@familytransitionplace.ca

Text/email accounts monitored Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

SUPPORT OUR WORK

Are you interested in volunteering, donating, sponsorship or fundraising events?

Contact: Kelly Lee (she/her) Manager of Fund Development & Communication Strategies kelly@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 243

AGENCY DEVELOPMENT AND Community Engagement

Are you interested in major giving or major project partnerships with FTP? Contact: Brennan Solecky (she/her) Director of Development & Community Engagement brennan@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 240

Send mail to: 20 Bredin Parkway Orangeville, ON L9W 4Z9

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

@familytransitionplace

@familytransitionplace

@familytransitionplace

@family-transition-place

Scan this QR code to view our agency videos on YouTube.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Do you want to join a progressive team of forward-thinking individuals? Contact our board representative admin@familytransitionplace.ca

FEEDBACK ON OUR REPORT OR ANYTHING ELSE We would love to hear from you. Contact: Lynette Pole-Langdon (she/her) Executive Director lynette@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 234

our commitment

Family Transition Place will remain steadfast in the work we do to educate and advocate for healthy relationships and violence-free lives to help make our world a better place.