LabourLink is a project of Dixon Hall, which finds casual or temporary work opportunities and matches homeless or marginally housed workers to employers. Service Canada funds the program as part of its solution to the homelessness issue in Toronto. We provide people with the opportunity to contribute their abilities in the workforce. The definition of homeless* we are using includes the following groups of people:

• Those who are "visible" on the streets or staying in hostels
• The "hidden" homeless, who live in illegal or temporary accommodation
• Those at risk of soon becoming homeless

*from the "Report of the Mayor’s Homelessness Action Force"

Employment placement involves an ongoing balance between having enough jobs and having available workers. LabourLink recruits worker-clients from shelters, drop-in centres and social service agencies. We recruit employer-clients through advertising, networking, promotional brochures, fax and mail out campaigns.

The key components of LabourLink are:

• A convenient location at 7 Labatt Avenue (East of River Street at Shuter)
• A dynamic inventory of potential and actual casual labour opportunities
• A communication system that informs homeless and under-housed men and women of currently available jobs, through faxes, e-mail and outreach
• On-site support and follow up to both employees and employers to ensure that the quality of work and the working conditions are acceptable
• A philosophy that combines high standards, clear expectations, definite rules and known consequences for workers together with a supportive and understanding staff team

We view worker-clients in a holistic manner, acknowledging their strengths and the barriers that many homeless people face: lack of identification, mental health issues, low self esteem, social stigma, substance addictions, and poverty. We will refer people to programs or services to meet their other needs within Dixon Hall and other agencies.

We are committed to ensuring that employer-clients are pleased with our services. Our workers are oriented with WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), Ontario Health and Safety Act, Ontario Human Rights Code and general workplace readiness.

Our Mission Statement

Our Guiding Principles

LabourLink’s Scope & Referrals

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