For many people at Evangel Hall Mission, connection doesn’t come easily.
Isolation is a daily reality for individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Even after moving into housing, rebuilding trust and forming relationships can take time.
That’s why moments of connection matter.
In 2024, EHM introduced regular therapy dog visits for residents and drop-in centre visitors as part of its broader approach to emotional well-being. At first glance, it may seem like a simple visit. But these moments reflect something deeper: the transformative power of animal companionship.
“Not everyone is ready to open up right away,” says Ayo Situ, Senior Manager of Housing. “But when a dog enters the space, something shifts. People start talking. They smile. They engage with each other in a way that feels natural and safe.”
These visits are part of a wider network of support designed to reduce isolation and foster connection.
Over the past year, EHM has facilitated more than 50 group activities and hundreds of one-to-one interactions between staff and community members.
What makes the therapy dog program unique is how quickly it breaks down barriers.
Residents who might otherwise keep to themselves gather together. Conversations start organically. Laughter fills the room. For a moment, the weight of isolation lifts.
“For many of the people we support, connection has been lost or disrupted,” Ayo explains. “These visits create a shared experience. They give people something to look forward to, and for some, it’s one of the few moments where they feel seen.”
At EHM, connection is part of the work every day.
In 2024 alone, more than 21,000 individuals accessed support through EHM’s programs. Each interaction is an opportunity to build trust and create a sense of belonging.
“Connection is at the heart of everything we do,” says Ayo. “When people feel seen and valued, it changes how they move through the world.”
Moments like these matter. And sometimes, they begin with a wagging tail.