Arrabon is a Greek word which means “state of beginning” or “a promise of things to come.”

Arrabon House, a Parkdale community based service for young women, was established in 1973 by community members concerned about adolescent girls in need of safe shelter, positive life skills and emotional support.

The agency offers two residential programs, Arrabon and Lanthier Place. In addition, staff members provide an After Care Program for young women living independently within the community and the agency has a counselling and support program for youth at Dufferin Mall Youth Services.

The primary objective of our programs is to assist young women to break the cycles of violence, low self-esteem and poverty. Trained staff use a client-focused wellness model, community resources and individual Plans of Care to assist the young women in their growth and recovery from past forms of abuse.  The racial, cultural and spiritual diversities of the young women are respected.

Arrabon, the core residential program, provides 24 hour therapeutic support for seven women aged 13 to 18. Residents attend school, are employed, or enrolled in a training program. Through counselling, life skills and socialization, our caring and skilled staff support and empower the young women to grow in self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and inner strength.

Lanthier Place is second stage housing for eight young women over 16 years of age. Referrals are accepted from Arrabon House and the community. Located in the Vaughan Road and St. Clair area, the program operates out of an attractive, fully furnished four-plex. Rent is geared to income and each unit contains two bedrooms. Residents attend school or work and live independently with limited support of a community worker and Arrabon staff.