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Blue Door, Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold merge to strengthen supports for homelessness in York Region

Articles
May 3, 2021

The merge takes effect on May 1

By: Aileen Zangouei, Richmond Hill Liberal, Original Article

Blue Door and Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold are merging together on May 1 to help better support people in York Region who are, or are facing homelessness.

According to an April 30 media release from Blue Door, the two organizations coming together will give access to people experiencing homelessness in the region improved wrap-around supports, helping them move forward into safe and affordable housing.

Both organizations support and serve people who are experiencing homelessness, one of the most vulnerable populations in our society, and representatives from both realized there is a pressing need to strengthen support services.

The solution: Collaboration through a merger.

Merging together was deemed “critical” to improving services for the vulnerable populations system-wide in terms of quality of care, outcomes, value for money, learning and innovation.

The services provided will be high quality, safe, cost-efficient, effective and administratively sound.

“By working more closely as one organization, community services in York Region will be strengthened for persons experiencing homelessness by promoting rapid rehousing while safeguarding the uniqueness of each organization,” the media release states.

The services being offered by each organization currently will not be affected by the merge, and they will continue for people experiencing homelessness. Blue Door will also maintain the incredible partnerships already established with various faith partners throughout the region.

The merge will result in Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold changing its name to Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold York – A Program of Blue Door. The program will continue to be led by Rehana Sumar, Executive Director at Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold, and a community leader who has in-depth knowledge of the program and its needs.

Blue Door will provide additional support for the program, including intensive case management to house more people experiencing homelessness in the region.

“This marks an exciting opportunity to continue working together and providing sustainable solutions to end homelessness in York Region.”

Blue Door has been serving York Region for over 39 years, providing supports including housing, health and employment for families, men, women, children, and youth that are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold – A Program by Blue Doors is a coalition of over 50 interfaith communities in York Region. Drop-in emergency housing locations are operated by 12 faith/host communities, who offer their facilities as an overnight emergency housing, and gather volunteers to serve the guests.