Why Is This Event Important? Despite the widespread impact of sexual violence, the current system is failing survivors. With fewer than 6% of survivors reporting due to fear of re-traumatization, it is crucial to explore justice models that genuinely support healing and transformation. This is why we are encouraging one and all to Join The Gatehouse and Justice4Survivors on Thursday, September 25, 2025 Registration/Check in: 8:30 am Event time is 9:00 am to 3:30 p.m. Venue is YWCA, room: Nancy’s Auditorium Address: 87 Elm St Toronto, ON M5G 0A8, This important gathering will bring together survivors, restorative and transformative justice practitioners, and legal experts to explore alternatives to the traditional justice system—ones that prioritize healing, accountability, and meaningful change. Through panel discussions, open dialogues, and collective strategizing, we aim to reshape justice to be survivor-centered and trauma-informed. Get Your Tickets Get your tickets today! We would love to hear your voice in shaping solutions that are just and healing for everyone. Special rate for post-secondary students. Use the discount code STUDENTRJ at checkout. https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/survivors-voices-restorative-and-transformative-justice-after-sexual-harm If you are experiencing financial barriers and want to attend, please contact Maria – mbarcelos@thegatehouse.org or admin@survivors4justicereform.com Event Agenda 8:30 am : Registration 9:00 am – 9:30 am : Opening & Grounding 9:30 am – 10:45 am: Panel 1: Survivors Speak: Transformative and Restorative Justice for Sexual Harm ft. Survivors 4 Justice Reform Chapter Members Emily Quint and Founder Marlee Liss and another Survivor 11:00 am – 12:15 pm: Panel 2: Policy Experts Speak: Restorative and Transformative Justice for Gender-Based Violence ft. Hoori Hamboyan (Federal Ombudsman), Arthur Lockhart (The Gatehouse), Rosel Kim (LEAF) 12: 15 pm – 1:15 pm: Lunch – provided 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm: Open Space facilitated by The Gatehouse – attendees supported in exploring topics discussed in working groups, end goal of creating a collective policy brief 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm: Closing and grounding Thank you to our Champions of Justice sponsors, Harmony Homestay & Gluckstein Lawyers Continue To Follow The Gatehouse To keep up to date on what we’re doing and our life-changing collaborations, you can follow us on Instagram @thegatehousetoronto and @survivors4justicereform, as well as become a member of The Survivors Council of Canada by heading to https://survivorscouncil.ca For more information about The Gatehouse programs and services, visit thegatehouse.org
Man Enough to Heal: Men Share Their Healing Journeys and Hope
Journeys of Healing and Hope When we think about childhood sexual abuse (CSA), we often fall into a rigid binary of who causes harm and who is harmed. This limited view deepens the pain that men, trans, and non-binary individuals have already experienced. The truth is: men can be survivors too. “According to the 2014 GSS [General Social Survey], in that year, the majority (83%) of sexual assaults were not reported to police. Only five percent of sexual assaults were reported. In three studies completed by Justice Canada with survivors of sexual assault, over two-thirds of those in the male sample (68%) (2019, Government of Canada)” Join us for a powerful all-male panel discussion on male survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). This event will shed light on the experiences of male survivors and challenge the myths that surround them. Held in an intimate café setting, the evening will offer space for storytelling, connection, and community. Get Your Tickets Register today for November 5, 2025, Man Enough to Heal: Men Share Their Journeys of Healing and Hope Location: Creeds Coffee Bar 450 Dupont Street, Toronto, ON M5R 3P3 Cost: $20 per ticket To uplift and support male survivors purchase your tickets at: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/man-enough-to-heal-men-share-their-journeys-of-healing-and-hope Are you a male CSA survivor? A student, educator, or professional in the healing field? A community member passionate about supporting survivors? You are warmly invited to attend. Man Enough to Heal is not a lecture. It’s an evening of truth-telling, solidarity, and hope. A night to break the silence and remind survivors everywhere: you are not alone. Other Male Survivor Supports If you or anyone you know might be looking for support, please reach out to The Gatehouse for judgment-free, caring, client-centered support with our phase 1 and 2 peer support programs which you can learn more about here: https://thegatehouse.org/programs-and-services/peer-support/phase-1 You can also call the male survivors of abuse crisis line, which is 24/7 and multilingual: 1-866-887-0015, or check out A Time for Men sexual abuse survivors group: https://bloorwestpsychotherapy.ca/a-time-for-men-groups
Truth and Reconciliation Day with The Gatehouse: Why You Should Attend
Who’s Land is This? The Gatehouse resides on the traditional land of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, and is part of Treaty 13 territory. The Purpose of Hosting Truth and Reconciliation Day At The Gatehouse, we create space every day to confront an issue that is painful, complex, and left silently in the shadows: Childhood Sexual Abuse. On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, we extend that commitment by facing another hard truth: the legacy and ongoing impacts of Canadian colonialism. Led by Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, we will come together and honour the truths of residential schools, the loss of Indigenous languages, culture, and identity—and we recognize the continued strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.This day is about remembrance, reflection, and respect. It’s an invitation to listen, learn, and be part of the journey toward reconciliation. Why Should I Attend? If you feel anxious or unsure about whether to attend, you’re not alone, and you’re still warmly encouraged to join us from 1pm to 3pm at The Gatehouse. We strive to be a safer space where dialogue is welcomed, and making mistakes is part of learning. This event is a meaningful opportunity to deepen your understanding of Canada’s history and its lasting impacts on Indigenous communities. Held in our beautiful and revitalizing Healing Garden, the gathering supports Indigenous-led education and advocacy, strengthens community, and fosters intercultural understanding. You’ll have the honour of respectfully witnessing or participating in Indigenous ceremony: something best experienced in guided and intentional spaces like this. It’s a chance to listen, reflect, and engage with the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples alongside others who are committed to learning and healing. Whether you’re a teacher bringing students, a family wanting to learn together, or someone looking to grow in your allyship, this event is for you. Everyone is welcome. By attending, you will be supporting both The Gatehouse and its mission to create spaces of compassion, education, and transformation, as well as guest speaker and educator, Kristi White, a proud Haudenosaunee woman, and author of Indigenous children’s books The Adventures of Jay & Gizmo. We hope you’ll be part of this meaningful day. You can register for the FREE event here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/annual-truth-and-reconciliation-in-the-healing-garden Other Resources Below you can find a wide range of resources to help supplement your knowledge about Indigenous People’s. https://principedejoyce.com/en/index https://fncaringsociety.com/jordans-principle
You’re Invited: Manicures & Coffee 4 A Cause!
Manicures & Coffee 4 A Cause – A Morning of Self-Care and Social Impact in Toronto On Saturday, July 5th, 2025, join us at Creeds Coffee Bar for a unique community fundraiser: Manicures & Coffee 4 A Cause. This uplifting morning blends self-care, music, and mindful shopping — all in support of a powerful cause. 📍 Location: Creeds Coffee Bar, 450 Dupont Street, Toronto🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Presented by Creeds Coffee Bar, Geo Home, and Menicure Men’s Grooming, the event features: 💅☕ Whether you’re stopping by for a mid-morning pick-me-up or looking to connect with others who care about making a difference, this event is your invitation to relax, give back, and feel good doing it. Why This Event Matters Proceeds from the event will directly support The Gatehouse and its 7th Annual Healing the Voice Within Gala, a signature event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). About The Gatehouse: Transforming Trauma into Healing The Gatehouse is a Toronto-based charitable organization and registered nonprofit committed to providing a safe, inclusive space for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Located in a historic house near the shores of Lake Ontario, The Gatehouse offers peer support, expressive arts therapy, and community education programming that empowers survivors to reclaim their voices and rebuild their lives. Since its founding, The Gatehouse has served over 20,000 people through a trauma-informed, peer-led approach. Their programs are non-clinical, survivor-directed, and deeply relational, creating meaningful pathways to healing that honour lived experience. The organization is nationally recognized for its innovation in survivor-led peer support, and its model has been replicated in other parts of Canada and internationally. Programs include: Learn more at thegatehouse.org Join Us & Be Part of the Healing Manicures & Coffee 4 A Cause is more than just a Saturday morning hangout — it’s an opportunity to contribute to a community of healing, advocacy, and support. When you sip a coffee, get a manicure, or pick up something special from the Geo Home pop-up, you’re helping survivors access safe spaces, compassionate peer connections, and meaningful healing experiences. Your presence helps amplify the voices of survivors, reduce stigma, and raise vital funds for The Gatehouse’s mission. Let’s Make Healing Visible Come as you are. Bring a friend. Invite others. Let’s come together to create impact — one manicure, one coffee, and one conversation at a time. 🖤 Together, we can make healing visible. Check out Creeds Coffee https://creeds.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopT5us_y_ULgLZs6numgPY-N8TkYeZSyNUXIb62IbtulgYdYuul Event Contact Lorne M. Simon @ SimonMCPR lornesimon@icloud.com
Congratulations to the inspiring Executive Director of The Gatehouse – Maria Barcelos
We are thrilled to share that Maria Barcelos, Executive Director of The Gatehouse, has been named a 2025 inductee into the Portuguese Canadian Walk of Fame Award. This well-deserved honour recognizes Maria’s extraordinary dedication to supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse and her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy. Through her leadership at The Gatehouse, Maria has helped transform countless lives and has become a beacon of healing, hope, and resilience in our community and beyond. Maria will be honoured alongside other outstanding leaders at the induction ceremony on Saturday, May 31st, 2025, at Camões Square, 722 College Street, Toronto, beginning at 4:00 PM. The event is open to the public — we hope you’ll join in celebrating this remarkable achievement. Congratulations, Maria — your vision, compassion, and advocacy continue to inspire us all. Learn more about this award at https://portuguesecanadianwalkoffame.com/ Read the announcement in Bom Dia Europa With gratitude and pride,The Gatehouse Team
Transforming Trauma into Triumph Conference
15th Annual Transforming Trauma Into Triumph Conference Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Time: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Location: Humber College Lake Shore Campus The one-day conference hosted speakers with lived experience and professionals in various fields, including psychotherapy, social work, film, poetry, education, law enforcement, and journalism. Conference participants range in backgrounds, from survivors of childhood sexual abuse to post-secondary students, social service professionals, police officers, and community members joining to learn how they can better interact with and support those traumatized by childhood sexual abuse. Read the event report -> 2025 Conference Summary Report Transforming Trauma Conference The Objectives of the Event: Increased awareness of the impact of childhood sexual abuse, the resiliency of survivors, Increased knowledge of available services in the communities that support CSA survivors. Knowledge sharing and dissemination of wide-ranging viewpoints from victimization to criminal justice to healing and recovery from trauma. Collaboration between psychotherapists, mental health practitioners, victims of human trafficking, and those who have experienced Childhood Sexual Abuse sharing their healing journeys. Why this event? 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually assaulted at some time in their lives. The Gatehouse is a leader in the field of addressing childhood sexual abuse trauma. Survivors of sexual abuse are in desperate need of our support and services, and we rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses to fund and expand our programs. Survivors learn to regain their voice in peer support settings, which facilitate positive coping techniques to address the anxiety, nightmares, and depression resulting from childhood sexual abuse. This conference would not be possible without the collective effort of many. To our wonderful guest speakers and the dedicated Gatehouse staff, thank you for your passion and commitment. To our placement students, thank you for your hard work in helping set up and support today’s event—your contributions do not go unnoticed. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Erin Alexandra and Jasmine Lem for your wonderful efforts in helping with this event. Your vision, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence have helped bring this meaningful gathering to life. Thank you to Paula Cordeiro, Karen MacKeigan, Stewart Thompson, and our summer students who helped make this event a wonderful success including: Omid Ghafari, Hannah Rossi, Chi Yan Kwong, Avnie Agnihotri, Martha Sandoval, Nathalie Cousineau, Douglas Andrade, Riya Macwan, Stella Sarfo, Sreelakshmi Nadarajan, Sakshi Krishna, and Anna Antonova. Thank you to Humber College and your wonderful staff, Sonia Rodrigues, who helped coordinate the booking of space, and Katie Evans, Manager, Campus Dining & Retail Services and all catering staff. Questions? Contact: Erin Alexandra, erin@thegatehouse.org, Communications Assistant, The Gatehouse
Remembering Al Beaty: A Pillar of The Gatehouse Community
June 3, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Al Beaty, a beloved member of The Gatehouse community. Al was not just a volunteer; he was a foundational figure whose unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit helped shape The Gatehouse into what it is today. In 1998, when The Gatehouse was just an ambitious vision, Al was among the original team of volunteers who worked tirelessly to make it a reality. His commitment to our mission was evident in every task he undertook, every person he helped, and every moment he spent working to better our community. Al’s influence can be seen in the very fabric of our organization, and his legacy is one that we will continue to honor and cherish. Watch video of Al and other original volunteer team sharing about their experiences in building The Gatehouse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnDoEb0a3wQ Watch video of the restoration of The Gatehouse https://youtu.be/ovYI16GeWDc Al’s contributions went far beyond the tangible. He was a source of strength and encouragement for everyone at The Gatehouse. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support provided a foundation upon which many have built their lives. Al believed in the power of community and the importance of supporting one another, values that remain at the core of our mission. We are deeply saddened by Al’s passing, and our sincerest condolences go out to his friends and family. His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him, but his spirit lives on in the work we do every day. The Gatehouse would not be what it is without Al’s vision, hard work, and heart. In memory of Al, we are committed to continuing his legacy. We will strive to uphold the values he embodied and ensure that The Gatehouse remains a place of hope, support, and community for all who need it. Al’s life reminds us of the profound impact one person can have, and his legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward. To honor Al’s memory, we encourage those who feel moved to do so to contribute to The Gatehouse. Your donations will help us to continue providing vital services and support, ensuring that Al’s work lives on and continues to make a difference. Thank you, Al, for everything you have done for The Gatehouse. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit and legacy will never be forgotten. With deepest gratitude and remembrance, Donations via Cheque can be mailed to: The Gatehouse 3101 Lake Shore Blvd W. Toronto, ON, M8V 3W8 Donations in Al’s memory can be online can be made using the form below.
14th Annual Transforming Trauma Conference
Transforming Trauma into Triumph: 14th Annual Conference Recap Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is “The Power of Collaboration” On Wednesday, May 15th, 2024, the 14th Annual Transforming Trauma into Triumph Conference took place at Humber College’s Lake Shore Campus. With 71 attendees, the event proved to be a powerful and inspiring gathering dedicated to addressing and understanding childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Event Highlights The conference commenced with registration at 9:00 AM, and the formal program ran from 9:45 AM to 4:00 PM. The participants, who included survivors of childhood sexual abuse, social service professionals, post-secondary students, police officers, and community members, convened in Building L Room 1017 for a day of insightful discussions and knowledge sharing. Key Objectives The conference aimed to: Raise awareness about the impact of childhood sexual abuse and the resilience of survivors. Enhance knowledge of community services available to support CSA survivors. Facilitate the exchange of diverse perspectives on victimization, criminal justice, healing, and recovery. Foster collaboration among psychotherapists, mental health practitioners, and survivors sharing their healing journeys. Why This Event Matters With statistics revealing that 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually assaulted at some point in their lives, the importance of The Gatehouse’s mission cannot be overstated. This conference highlighted the crucial need for continued support and services for survivors, emphasizing the role of peer support in helping individuals regain their voices and develop positive coping mechanisms to combat anxiety, nightmares, and depression. Esteemed Speakers The conference featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including: Marlee Liss, award-winning speaker and restorative justice advocate Tara MacLean, singer, songwriter, and author Trynelle Thomas, survivor and advocate Irwin Elman, Officer of the Order of Canada and President of Defence For Children Representatives from the Toronto Police Service Sex Crimes Unit Arthur Lockhart, founder of The Gatehouse Kristi White, Rosalia Rivera, and Stewart Thompson from the Survivor Council of Canada Maria Barcelos, MA, Executive Director of The Gatehouse and registered psychotherapist Mafalda Silva, DTATI, RP, art therapist Support and Sponsorship The Gatehouse relies on the generosity of individuals and businesses to fund and expand its programs, which are offered free of charge to those affected by childhood sexual abuse. These programs include child abuse investigations, peer support groups, art therapy, and support for partners and families. This event was generously supported by the Department of Justice Canada Victims and Survivors of Crime Week Funding. About The Gatehouse Since its founding on June 20, 1998, The Gatehouse has been a beacon of hope for CSA survivors. Its mission is to provide support, community, and resources for those impacted by childhood sexual abuse, helping them to heal and reclaim their voices. For more information, please visit The Gatehouse website or contact Maria Barcelos at mbarcelos@thegatehouse.org. Contact Information The Gatehouse Child Abuse Investigation & Support Site 3101 Lake Shore Boulevard West, Toronto, ON, M8V 3W8 Phone: 416.255.5900 Fax: 416.255.7221 Website: www.thegatehouse.org Thank you to all who attended and supported this vital conference. Together, we are transforming trauma into triumph.
Mindfulness in the Garden – May 21 & 22
Mindfulness Group Sessions in the Healing Garden with Brad Hutchinson Dates: May 21 and 22, 2024 Time: 11am to 1pm Location: In person at The Gatehouse 3101 Lake Shore Blvd W., Toronto, ON, M8V 3W8 Cost: $60 per person. Partial proceeds support The Gatehouse. Reduced rate available for individuals on OW/ODSP. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeoFTQS1Eh96E1pDooFIA7JXnyW4W0pO7LHDI44SrgY-a–JQ/viewform?usp=sf_link Through various meditation and mindfulness techniques, Brad leads participants on an exploration of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations, encouraging them to embrace the present moment with acceptance and non-judgment. Whether seated in quiet reflection or engaged in mindful movement, each practice fosters a deeper connection to oneself and the world around them. Beyond the individual journey, the group dynamic adds richness to the experience, as shared insights and supportive camaraderie deepen the sense of community and belonging. Together, participants embark on a shared voyage of self-discovery. Questions? Email Brad at brad@stepintothecreative.com
Annual General Meeting AGM
Join us at our upcoming Annual General Meeting Thursday, June 26, 2025 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm EST ONLINE via Zoom We are pleased to announce that the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of The Gatehouse will be held on: Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025 Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM Location: ONLINE via Zoom Registration is required. Please register in advance for this meeting by clicking this link and completing the brief form: AGM Registration Form After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the Zoom link information to join the meeting. Agenda: Call to Order Approval of Minutes from the Previous AGM Treasurer’s Financial Report – Review and Vote on Audited Financial Statements Appointment of the Auditor Executive Directors Report Election of Board Members Old Business New Business Adjournment All members are encouraged to attend the ONLINE AGM meeting. However, if you are unable to attend, you may appoint a proxy to attend and vote on your behalf. Proxy forms will be made available upon request via email to the Executive Director, Maria Barcelos, at mbarcelos@thegatehouse.org and must be returned at least 24 hours before the meeting via email to Maria. Please note that only members whose names appear on the members register in good standing in 2024-2025 will be eligible to attend and vote at the meeting. If you have not yet paid your membership fee of $10, you can do so online via https://thegatehouse.org/become-a-member/ We look forward to your presence at the Annual General Meeting as we discuss The Gatehouse’s progress, achievements, and plans for the future. Your participation is crucial in shaping the direction of The Gatehouse. For any inquiries or to request a proxy form, please contact: Maria Barcelos Executive Director mbarcelos@thegatehouse.org 416-255-5900 x225 Thank you for your continued support. Benefits of being an official member of The Gatehouse As a member, you will: Receive information about the programs and services we offer Attend and vote at the annual general meeting every spring Connect with other persons in the community to procure in-kind services and possible donations Participate in volunteer activities in support of the Gatehouse based on your area of interest and expertise, for example, fundraising initiatives, annual 5k run/walk, house maintenance, painting, landscaping, community awareness, conference planning, program development, and research, social media, photography, or film production. Cost: $10 per year Becoming a member is your way to be involved in meaningful activities that address the trauma of childhood sexual abuse! Questions? If you have any questions or need help with launching your Zoom app, please email Maria