The Stop's Community Advocacy Office

We empower people experiencing marginalization to navigate systems, access resources, and take action for themselves and their communities.

Through peer support, information, referrals, and financial empowerment programs, participants build skills, community, and connections to address challenges of poverty and food insecurity.

Office Hours

1884 Davenport Road
Monday, Thursday (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Tuesday (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Friday (10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.)

729 St. Clair Avenue West,
Wychwood Open Door
Wednesday (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

For more information, please contact (416) 652-7867, ext. 235, or advocacy@thestop.org.

Snapshot: Our Advocacy Impact in 2025

Every year:

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referrals to community services for support with housing, employment, immigration, and more

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visits to our advocacy office

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tax returns filed

$ 0

of tax benefits delivered

Our Programs

Become Your Own Advocate (BYOA)

Build confidence and develop practical advocacy skills in this free program at The Stop. Participants explore how personal challenges connect to broader community issues as they learn how to navigate systems, communicate effectively, and advocate for themselves and their community in real-life situations, including housing, mental health, digital literacy, and collective action.

BYOA creates space to connect, share experiences, and expand your support network.

To learn more or express your interest, please email advocacy@thestop.org.

"Being a Peer Advocate has been a formative experience. I learned how to be an active and useful participant in my community. I take great pride in helping community members navigate obscure systems of aid, as well as providing services to folks who, like myself, may experience barriers elsewhere."
Norhan
Program Participant

The Debbie Jenkins Tax Clinic

Many people miss out on income support and benefits they’re entitled to due to barriers in filing a tax return. The late Debbie Jenkins, a dedicated community member, established this clinic at The Stop to support individuals to complete the process, improve financial stability, and access available resources.

For more information, contact us at taxclinic@thestop.org or 416-652-7867.

Legal Clinic

Friday Mornings from April–July 2026

The Stop’s Community Advocacy Program (CAP) hosts a weekly legal clinic, providing access to legal information, guidance, and support around housing, income, and other rights-based issues.

CAP offers services like this throughout the year based on community needs. For more information, contact advocacy@thestop.org or (416) 652-7867, ext. 235.

Partner Programs Provide More Services

The Stop collaborates with partners to make it easier for community members to access multiple services in one place.

ID Clinic

In partnership with Neighbourhood Group Community Services, staff provide guidance to obtain or replace essential identification, such as health cards, birth certificates, and other government-issued ID. Participants receive support with the application process and reducing access barriers.

Open Door Program

From newcomers to seniors to people living on low incomes, many face barriers in accessing care and services. This program, led by Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services with funding from Ontario Health, “opens doors” to health information, community resources, and social supports .