Posted On: Sunday, 19 2026, Posted By: Simon Martin, Yorkregion.com, Original Article.
Did you know that Blue Door’s Music Interfaith Out of the Cold program is not just for the winter months?
Blue Door has opened two locations year-round at Rouge Valley Mennonite Church in Markham and Victory Baptist Church in East Gwillimbury.
In response to the growing need for year-round emergency housing, Blue Door expanded its essential seasonal housing program, Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold.
Originally operating during the coldest winter months from October to March, the two locations now remain open throughout the entire year to continue providing vulnerable individuals in York Region access to safe housing during both extreme cold and dangerous heat.
“Blue Door is pleased to offer these vital services year-round, especially during the extreme heat this summer,” CEO of Blue Door Debbie Schatia said.
“There continues to be an increased need for services for individuals most in need. By providing a safe bed, food and trusting relationships, we have an opportunity to connect service users to community supports and housing, ideally reducing the need for emergency services.”
Through the two year-round Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold program locations in York Region, Blue Door provides 65 beds each night. Victory Baptist Church offers 30 beds, while Rouge Valley Mennonite Church provides 35 beds.
“Expanding this program reflects the reality we’re seeing every day, which is that more people are experiencing homelessness and need a safe place to be, no matter the season,” director of affordable and transitional housing Karen Al-Massad said.
“While emergency shelter is critical, our focus at Blue Door is always on helping people move into permanent housing and continuing to find innovative, long-term solutions that reduce the need for emergency services in the first place.”
To learn more about Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold, explore Blue Door’s programs, or find ways to get involved through volunteering or donating, visit https://bluedoor.ca/programs/seasonal/