Ray of Hope Inc.

With your support, we can provide warmth, safety, and essential resources to individuals and families facing tough times. Let’s make this winter a season of hope.

We’re reaching out with an important update that may impact your support for Ray of Hope. A Canada Post strike has been announced, which will delay the arrival of mailed donations and disrupt our ability to respond to the needs of the individuals and families in our community. This is a critical time for us as your donations during the holiday season is a vital source of our funding throughout the year. With more people turning to us for food and vital services, delays in donations could mean delays in delivering the care and support they urgently need. If you’ve recently mailed a donation, please rest assured—we will process it as soon as it is received. However, we anticipate slower turnaround times due to the strike. If you haven’t yet had the chance to give, there are several ways to ensure your generosity reaches those who need it most: Online Donations: Donations can be made securely through our website at rayofhope.net. You can find our website at the link in our bio. By Phone: Donors can call 519-578-8018 ext 217 to make a donation directly. In-Person Donations: You can also drop off your donation at Ray of Hope directly. We are at 659 King Street East in Kitchener. Pick-up: During this time, we are also offering to pick up donations. You can call us at the same phone number above and we can schedule a pick-up in case you are unable to make it in to Ray of Hope. We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support and your compassion for those in need. Together, we can overcome this hurdle and keep providing food, shelter, and care for our community. Thank you for standing with us. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us or email us at donations@rayofhope.net.

✨ Meet Becky: A Story of Resilience ✨ Becky has experienced poverty, homelessness, and addiction, yet she remains a source of support for others at Ray of Hope, where she’s known as “Mom” to many of our guests. Her advice to people facing similar struggles is simple: “Don’t ever try drugs. If you can avoid it the first time, you won’t have to fight the battle the rest of your life.” Read Becky’s story here: https://lnkd.in/gAvYMuUu

At Ray of Hope, we believe in investing in people, inspiring hope, and transforming lives. Every day, we’re inspired by the resilience and strength of the people we serve. We're dedicated to building community, cultivating hope, and empowering individuals to build a brighter future. #RayOfHope #Thanksgiving #Community #Hope

Ray of Hope is seeking an experienced Health, Safety and Training Associate who will steer our Health and Safety program and is also responsible for the coordination of our training initiatives! There will be opportunity to train, along with ensuring that other required training components are being maintained and staff remain current and up to date. The position is a 32 hour per week role. To apply or learn more, see: https://lnkd.in/gH37rrsG

Employers in Kitchener-Waterloo: Looking to hire? Consider partnering with Ray of Hope to offer work experience to our Employment Program trainees. Benefits to you: * You’ll get the satisfaction of providing valuable work experience * You’ll receive subsidized labour costs * Trainees have current certifications in First Aid/CPR, Health and Safety, and Safe Food Handling * Trainees come with a professional and vetted reference It's a win-win for the employer and the new employee! Contact Josh at 519-578-8018 x229 or jhealey@rayofhope.net to find out more or visit https://lnkd.in/g2qzmN_j #JobVacancies #RayOfHope #Hiring #Employment #RayOfHope

The Ray of Hope Employment Services team is expanding! We're looking for two full-time Employment Counsellors. The Employment Counsellors will work collaboratively with our Employment Services Coordinator to support trainees by providing intake assessments and individual case management; life skills, mental health, disability and addictions focused workshops; coaching and supporting youth and adults facing significant barriers to employment including individuals who are long term Ontario Works recipients or Ontario Disability Support Plan recipients, individuals who have disabilities, mental health barriers, are long-term unemployed, have a history with the criminal justice system, recovering from substance abuse and may be newcomers to the country. To apply or learn more, see: https://lnkd.in/gH37rrsG

Meet Rebecca* – Ray of Hope’s student placement at our Live-In Treatment program. Fifteen years ago, at only thirteen years old, Rebecca began her journey of transformation at Ray of Hope. *Rebecca’s name has been changed for confidentiality. The meaning of Rebecca reflects strength, endurance, and resilience—a fitting choice for those who overcome challenges in life. At just thirteen years old, Rebecca started to make unhealthy choices. She began using drugs, influenced by her friend group to make decisions she never thought she would make. She recalls walking down King Street in Kitchener alone as a 14-year-old girl and having no fear. As time went on her life spiraled out of control. Expelled from school as a young teen, she reports being at rock bottom. Read Rebecca's story here: https://lnkd.in/gswunqWw

We're pleased to announce the reopening of Ray of Hope Secure Custody, effective Monday, July 8th. This facility provides a safe and supportive environment for young men (aged 12-17) involved with the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Ray of Hope Secure Custody is more than just a custody and detention center; it is a rehabilitation facility offering a comprehensive program to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour and reduce recidivism. Programs at Secure include case management, anger management, substance abuse prevention, education provided by on-site WRDSB teachers, post-secondary education opportunities, an extensive trades program, life skills development, and spiritual care. We're committed to investing in youth well-being and ensuring a smooth transition back into the community. We're looking forward to inviting youth back to our significantly enhanced facility. Thanks to our ongoing partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), we’ve made substantial improvements. These include updating all security systems, enriching the staff training program, and expanding the trades program to include welding and small engine repair. We've also updated the facility to create a more trauma-informed environment. Please join us in congratulating the staff team at Ray of Hope for the work they poured into making re-opening possible. Thank you for your care and dedication to providing the highest level of care to these young men entrusted to us. #RayOfHope

The Ray of Hope Marketplace Food Hamper program, in partnership with The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, empowers families to choose the groceries they need. This fosters a sense of dignity and respect while providing access to healthy food options. Open Monday-Thursday (11:30 AM - 2:00 PM), the Marketplace creates a welcoming space where families can browse fresh produce, pantry staples, and other essential items – all tailored to dietary preferences and cultural backgrounds (as supplies last). Your Support Makes a Difference: * Increased Access to Healthy Food: We believe everyone deserves nutritious options. * Empowering Choices: The Marketplace allows families to choose what works best for them. * Building a Hopeful Community: Together, we're creating a space where hope thrives, one grocery box at a time. #RayofHope #FoodSecurity #CommunityCare #YourDonationMatters