Program FAQs | Haven Queensway

Do I need to schedule a Food Bank appointment?

Yes, you are required to book an appointment for the Food Bank (for Etobicoke residents only). Please call (416) 640-2005 on Tuesdays only between 9am to 12 noon to make a Food Bank appointment for the following week.
What if I am outside of the food bank catchment area?

If you live outside of Etobicoke, you may be given a referral to the food bank that serves the area where you live or call 2-1-1.
Which days are the food bank open?

Wednesday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Thursday 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm
What happens if I don't show up to pick up my food?

If you cannot come in for your appointment, please call to cancel. If you cancel or don't show up twice in a month, you will qualify for a WALK-IN ONLY for your next appointment.
What happens when I arrive?

To make sure we can advocate on your behalf and serve you better, on your first appointment you will be asked to voluntarily share some household information such as housing status, government-issued identification for each member of the household, as well as proof of address where available. After a short intake, you will receive information regarding further visits to the food bank. Personal information is confidential. At the Haven, we believe food is a human right and we strive to help others access food.
What happens if I want to pick up food for someone else?

Please ensure whomever you are picking up food for, calls Haven on the Queensway to let them know in advance.
Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring your own bags or a means of transporting your groceries.
How much food will I get?

At Haven on the Queensway, we do our best to provide households with 2 to 3 day’s worth of food if supply allows.
What food should I expect?

At Haven on the Queensway, our food bank coordinator and pantry coordinator do their very best to create a diverse grocery list with nutritious items. However, the list greatly depends on the donations Haven receives. We cannot predict what products will be donated week to week.
What if I have special dietary needs?

Please let us know of any food allergies and/or dietary restrictions when you make your appointment. We will do our best to meet your special dietary needs according to the goods we have available.
Do I need to schedule a First Care appointment?

Yes, if you are a new client who wants to join the First Care program, you must book an intake appointment. Please call (416)-640-2005, select option #3, Monday to Thursday between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. First Care clients who are already registered do not need to make an appointment to pickup their baby items every 30 days.
Who can use the services of the First Care program?

Pregnant women and parents or guardians of children 0 up to 6 months old can apply to this program.
What do you provide through the First Care Program?

For each child 0 up to 6 months old you will receive: One (1) package of Diapers One (1) can of Formula One (1) package of Wipes Baby Equipment Clothing Parenting Support (call (416)-640-2005, Monday to Thursday between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm to book an appointment) Please note all items list above are subject to availability.
Do I need to schedule a Haven's Closet appointment?

Yes, you are required to book an appointment for Haven's Closet (for Etobicoke residents only). Please call our 416.640.2005 and select option #4 or get an online referral form completed by your case worker.
How do I apply to access the Haven’s Closet?

CRITERIA (for New Clients only) You must be in a crisis situation Newcomer – less then 6 months in Canada Staying in or leaving a shelter Experiencing homelessness A NEW client intake must be completed with our coordinator prior to or at the time of the first appointment Or a referral form can be filled out by your case worker. Documents needed for NEW client intake ID for all members of the family Proof of address (ex. Utility bill or letter from shelter)