By Simon Proops —
Tucked away at 6 St. Joseph St. near Yonge and Wellesley lies a little-known secret called the Yellow Door Learning Centre (YDLC).
YDLC is a creative resource centre where people share their talents and support one another on their journey. The centre’s goal is to develop more creative and compassionate ways of responding to the challenges of livelihood and homelessness. YDLC offers new ways to learn, in a hospitable community setting, featuring free arts, wellness and life skills workshops.
A quilting circle meets on Wednesdays for a co-operative, hands-on class on the basics of quilting, plus tea and conversation. Artist Judith Hart facilitates bricolage, a collage class in which people transform everyday items into beautiful works of art that tell powerful stories. Other art workshops range from acrylic painting to watercolor, in addition to poetry and creative writing sessions.
Rita Citron hosts a weekly discussion group called the Gift of Gratitude, teaching that people who take time to express gratitude experience more joy in their lives. In addition, there is a regular community meal every Tuesday or Wednesday at noon, and everyone is encouraged to volunteer or participate.
Staff feel that YDLC, also known as 6 St. Joseph House, enjoys a real sense of community due to programs like SWIFT, a group for people suffering from depression or shyness which meets every Sunday, and Double Recovery from 2:15 to 3:15 for people struggling with mental health and addiction issues. YDLC plans to open two transition homes based on the 12-step method, on Broadview Ave. Visit www.6stjoseph.ca or call (416) 923-8836.