What Services Require Referrals

Overview

What Services Require Referrals

At PARC, we believe that accessing support should be as simple as possible. The majority of our programs and services are open-access, meaning you can walk in or call us directly without any referral from a doctor, social worker, or other professional.

For those programs that do involve a more structured intake process, our staff are here to guide you through every step — and self-referrals are always welcome.

Service Referral Overview:

ServiceReferral Required?How to Access
Drop-In Centre❌ NoWalk in during Drop-In hours
Daily Meals❌ NoWalk in during Drop-In hours
Peer Support❌ NoWalk in or ask a staff member
Case Management❌ No — self-referral welcomeWalk in, call, or email
Housing Access Program❌ No — self-referral welcomeWalk in, call, or email
Financial Trusteeship❌ No — self-referral welcomeWalk in, call, or email
Employment Program❌ No — self-referral welcomeWalk in, call, or email
Parkdale People's Economy❌ NoWalk in or ask a staff member
External Housing/Shelter Placements⚠️ SometimesStaff will assist with the process
Supportive Housing (Long-Term)⚠️ Intake process requiredSpeak with a Case Manager

What Is a Self-Referral?

A self-referral simply means that you reach out to us directly — without needing anyone else to contact us on your behalf. You can call us, email us, or walk in and tell us what kind of support you’re looking for. Our staff will take it from there.

You do not need a doctor’s note, a social worker, or any official documentation to access most PARC programs.

What About External Services?

In some cases, PARC staff may connect you to services outside of PARC — such as shelters, mental health clinics, income support programs, or specialized housing. Some of these external services have their own referral or eligibility requirements. Our Case Managers and peer workers are experienced in navigating these systems and will support you through the process.

Professional Referrals: If you are a social worker, healthcare provider, outreach worker, or other professional looking to refer someone to PARC, we welcome your referral. Please visit our Refer a Client page for more information on how to connect someone with our services.

Still Not Sure?

If you’re unsure whether you need a referral or which program is right for you, just come in or give us a call. Our team will help you figure out the best path forward — no pressure, no judgment.

Phone: (416) 537-2262 Email: kriordan@parc.on.ca Address: 1499 Queen Street West, Toronto

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Support our community in Parkdale

PARC is a social service charitable organization that relies on community support to provide meals, housing, and member-driven programs for people facing mental health and substance use challenges, houselessness, poverty, and food insecurity.