Toronto youth housing & education
Safe spaces. Strong support. Real opportunity.
ROOTS provides housing, individualized support and community-based programs that help young people build stability, strengthen their skills and move toward positive, independent futures.
Two ways we support young people
Our Programs
Housing & Support Services
Residential Care • Individualized Support • Daily Living Skills
We provide safe, structured and supportive residential environments for youth and individuals who benefit from consistent care, individualized planning and dependable relationships. Our team works with referral partners, families and other professionals to promote stability, daily living skills, community connection and progress toward each person’s goals.
Youth & Education
Tutoring • AI & Digital Literacy • Mentorship • Basketball & Soccer
We deliver accessible learning, mentorship, digital skills and recreation programs for youth, with a focus on neighbourhoods where young people face barriers to opportunity. Our programs help youth strengthen academic skills, develop confidence, build healthy relationships and explore pathways in education, technology and employment.
Rooted in Toronto, built on relationships
Who we are
ROOTS – Restoring Opportunities and Outcomes Through Support – is a Toronto-based organization committed to helping young people feel safe, supported and equipped to succeed. We bring together residential support, education and community programming because lasting progress depends on more than one service. Young people thrive when they have stability, trusted adults, meaningful opportunities and a community that believes in their potential.
Our work is shaped by direct experience in education, youth services, community development and residential care. We collaborate with families, schools, child welfare agencies, community organizations and funders to provide responsive support that reflects each young person’s strengths, needs and goals.
Leadership grounded in education and community.
ROOTS is led by Liban Hassan, whose experience spans school board leadership, public policy and community housing support. His work informs ROOTS’ focus on safe living environments, trusted relationships and access to learning opportunities for young people.
Our work is shaped by direct experience in education, youth services, community development and residential care. We collaborate with families, school boards, government agencies, community organizations and funders to provide responsive support that reflects each young person’s strengths, needs and goals.
Our mission
To provide safe housing, trusted support and meaningful learning opportunities that help young people overcome barriers, build on their strengths and create positive futures.
Our vision
Communities where every young person has the stability, relationships, skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
What guides our work
Our values
Safety
We create environments where people feel protected, respected and able to grow.
Dignity
We recognize each person’s humanity, voice, culture and right to be treated with respect.
Opportunity
We connect young people to experiences, knowledge and pathways that expand what is possible.
Belonging
We build trusting relationships and inclusive spaces where young people feel seen and valued.
Accountability
We act with integrity, communicate openly and remain responsible to the people and partners we serve.
Our services are designed around a clear pathway
Our approach
01
Stabilize
Safe housing and consistent support
02
Develop
Relationships, life and social skills
03
Learn
Education, digital skills and mentorship
04
Advance
Confidence and future pathways
Looking for a responsive housing or youth-program partner?
Connect with ROOTS to discuss a referral, partnership or funding opportunity.