Your Will: A Powerful Way to Make a Lasting Impact
Your will can be a powerful way to support organizations like Youth Without Shelter (YWS) and create a legacy of compassion.
YWS has partnered with Willfora, a free online resource that makes creating a legal will simple and secure. With Willfora, you can complete your will in 20 minutes or less, at no cost. Whether you choose to designate part of your estate to a charity close to your heart or not, this tool empowers you to plan your future with confidence and ease.
Breaking the cycle of abuse, neglect, and poverty—the root causes of most youth homelessness—is a significant challenge. With your legacy gift, YWS can continue to provide safe, supportive spaces, caring individuals, and services that guide youth toward independence.
Thank you for being part of our youths’ inspiring journeys to self-sufficiency and empowerment.
To discuss your legacy in confidence, please contact:
Director of Philanthropy & Engagement
416.748.0110 x 26 or communications@yws.on.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I go about leaving a legacy gift to Youth Without Shelter?
The most common legacy giving options are listed below. Your financial advisor or lawyer can assist you in deciding which option best suits you.
Bequests: A gift stated in your will is the most popular of legacy gifts. You can make a specific bequest with a definite sum of money to Youth Without Shelter; or a residual bequest leaving the remaining amount or a percentage of the remainder after all of your named bequests have been honoured. There are tax savings associated with a bequest. A charitable gift made in your will is recognized as being made in the year of death, subsequently the charitable tax credit can be claimed by the estate.
Gifts of Life Insurance: You can state Youth Without Shelter as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy. The proceeds of the policy received by Youth Without Shelter will be eligible for a tax receipt. Alternatively, you can donate a life insurance policy where Youth Without Shelter is the owner. Each premium paid on such a policy qualifies as a charitable gift in the year of payment.
RRSP’s or RRIF’s: You can name Youth Without Shelter as the beneficiary for your RRSP or RRIF funds. Tax savings can be achieved through this type of donation. Before you make a donation of this type we encourage you to seek advice from your financial advisor and/or lawyer as to the suitability for your estate.
Gifts of Securities: You can gift publicly traded stocks or securities to Youth Without Shelter in which case you will receive a tax receipt for the full value of the shares, and will not be taxed on any part of the capital gain.
What is the legal name and address of Youth Without Shelter?
Our complete legal name is: Youth Without Shelter Terra House North Toronto Emergency Residence and Referral Agency. All legal documents specifying a legacy gift to the shelter should use this full legal name.
Youth Without Shelter is a registered Canadian charity.
Charitable registration number: 119307817 RR0001.
Youth Without Shelter
6 Warrendale Court, Toronto, Ontario, M9V 1P9.
Should I notify you of my plans to leave a legacy in my will to Youth Without Shelter?
Yes please! We would like to thank and recognize you for making this investment in the potential of the
youth who seek refuge at Youth Without Shelter.
Note: We strongly encourage you to seek legal, estate planning, and tax advice from a qualified lawyer
and/or tax professional if you are making a will or changing your will.
Am I too young to need a will?
A will isn’t just for mature individuals; it’s a tool for anyone to ensure their wishes are honoured, no matter their age. Life is unpredictable, and creating a will gives you peace of mind that your assets, loved ones, or chosen causes are protected.
Do I need a will if I don't own much?
A will isn’t just about wealth—it’s about making sure everything you value, from sentimental belongings to the care of your pets, is handled the way you want. No matter the size of your assets, having a will ensures your loved ones won’t face unnecessary stress and will know exactly what to do. It’s also an opportunity to leave meaningful gifts, such as supporting a cause close to your heart, regardless of the size of your estate.
Is creating a will expensive?
Creating a will can be simple and cost-effective. Free platforms like Willfora make the process easier than ever, and professional assistance is available for those with more complex requirements. It’s a minimal effort with a lasting impact.
If I make a will, can I change it later?
A will is a living document—you can update it at any time as your life circumstances or priorities change.
I am making a gift in my will to Youth Without Shelter as an investment in the next generation. Youth are the future of our country, and we need to support them.
