1 in 5 adults in Toronto live in poverty. Without financial stability, it is extremely difficult for individuals and families to cover the rising cost of housing. This is why an integral component of Fred Victor’s work is to support people in finding meaningful and sustainable employment.
Through a variety of programs and services, we help people develop practical and transferable skills, establish networks, and connect to relevant resources and information. In addition to creating opportunities for hands-on training and work experience, we also strive to address individual issues that may act as a barrier to employment, including health and housing.
Our current employment-focused programs and services are:
Employment Services
Fred Victor’s Employment Services is a provincially-funded employment centre that engages people one-on-one so they can think through short-term and long-term career goals, train for their future, find work and keep it. In other words, we help people find work that works. Learn more.
Peer Programs
Fred Victor’s Peer Programs provide training and employment opportunities for people with lived experience of homelessness and social services. These programs equip participants with the skills, certifications, and work experience needed to build meaningful careers in the social services sector. Learn more.
Training Services
Fred Victor’s Training Services offer practical, skills-based programs designed to help enter or re-enter the workforce. These programs empower participants to build confidence and take the next step toward meaningful employment. Learn more.
Fred's Kitchen
Fred’s Kitchen is Fred Victor’s social enterprise and provides on-the-job culinary training for people at risk of homelessness, newcomers, and those living with addiction or mental health challenges, often serving as the first step toward rebuilding their lives. In addition, Fred’s Kitchen delivers nutritious meals to shelters and community spaces across the city. Learn more.
Women’s Bakery
This program provides a space for women who are seeking empowering training and employment opportunities. Alongside professional bakers and facilitators, the Women’s Bakery program tackles barriers to employment, such as lack of experience in the workforce and childcare challenges, while fostering employability and entrepreneurship. Learn more.
Peer Initiatives
Fred Victor’s Peer Initiatives empower people with lived experience by offering them employment and training opportunities within our programs. Through initiatives like the Warming Centre and the Keep Cool Program, participants not only receive support but also contribute to their communities by providing essential services. These peer-led programs are rooted in the belief that people with firsthand knowledge of homelessness are uniquely equipped to create positive change, offering both practical help and compassionate care to those in need. Learn more!
Culinary Skills Training
This pre-employment program is tailored for low-income people in the downtown east who want to enhance their skills and pursue careers in Toronto’s food industry. Graduates gain the expertise to secure entry-level jobs in professional kitchens, grow their catering businesses, or work as vendors in the food service sector. Learn more.
Services for Employers
Through Employment Ontario services, Fred Victor provides free recruitment and onboarding support to employers seeking skilled candidates for their organizations. We specialize in strategic employer partnerships, helping fill hiring gaps with exceptional talent from across Toronto. Learn more.