PROFILE: Toronto Community Housing – Trethewey

Toronto Community Housing , also known as TCH, is the largest social housing provider in Canada. The City of Toronto owns the non-profit as a public asset. TCH offers hundreds of services and programs for youth, adults, and families alike across the GTA.

One of the Toronto Community Housing camp sites is located at 720 Trethewey Drive, serving as a placement for Focus on Youth counsellors. With support from FOY staff and community partners, camps run by TCH sites offer children a fun, active, and safe environment to enjoy their summer.

Each morning, the FOY staff arrive early at approximately 8:35 a.m. to set up the space, arrange tables and chairs, and plan the day’s schedule. Campers start arriving at around 9:00 a.m. and are welcomed with simple wake-up games such as Uno, matching cards, and Jenga. Once at least ten campers have arrived, counsellors review the camp rules, expectations, and the day’s plan. After that, small group games help to get everyone energized.

By 10:00 a.m., campers head outside for active group games, such as Octopus and Tag. After some time outdoors, they come in for a snack break around 10:30 a.m., where the FOY counsellors provide packets of fruit, bread, and cheese, accompanied by music playing in the background to set a positive mood.

Following snack time, campers participate in a creative art activity, such as painting flower pots or designing their own flags. Just before lunch, counsellors lead quick indoor games such as Broken Telephone or People to People. After lunch at noon, small games continue until the larger outdoor activities begin in the afternoon.

From 1:00 p.m., campers participate in larger games like soccer, baseball, or four corners. Twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the group heads to the pool for swimming. Later in the afternoon, campers enjoy a final snack break before finishing the day with small games until dismissal at 4:00 p.m..

Throughout each day, FOY staff work together to ensure every child is engaged, safe, and having fun. The camp’s routine combines structure and variety, giving campers the chance to play, create, and build friendships in a supportive community environment.