If you've ever had to leave your home in a hurry, you know how​ stressful the situation is! Having the confusion of not knowing what is happening can upset you enough but add the fact that you now have to pack your belongings and leave and you're lucky if you can remember your birthdate!

Getting sent to a shelter with basically nothing, I learned the hard way that there are important things you may need and you may not have the chance to go back and get or depending on your situation, they might not be there when you can go back!

​

​

Depending on your Gender and if you have kids, this list may be different and you can add your own items!

​

Backpack/Suitcase/Bag

Padlock/Key

​

Wallet/Purse

Birth certificate

Health Card

Drivers' License

Photo ID

Debit Card

Credit Card

​

It might be a good idea to get a folder to keep all these documents in and have them ready just in case.

 

Last Tax Returns

Ontario Works Documents

Lease Agreements

Bills You Pay including:

   Credit cards

   Insurance

   Mortgage Papers

   Resume

Pins for online accounts

List of phone numbers you need:

Friends, Kid's School, Caregivers, Work, Shelters, Food Bank

​

Binder

Paper

Pens

​

Cellphone

Charger

Headphones

Lighter if you smoke

​

Laptop Computer

Charger

​

Depending on the season:

Winter Coat

Boots

Hats

Gloves

​

Towel

PJ's

Socks

Underwear

Bras

Leggings/Long Johns

Pants/Jeans

Tank Tops/Undershirts

Shirts

Sweatshirts/Sweaters

Work Clothing - Blazer, Shirt, Pants, Shoes

​

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Hairbrush/Comb

Deodorant

Bodywash/Soap

Shampoo/Conditioner

Lotion

Razors

Contact Lens Case

Contact Lens Solution

Glasses/Case

​

Feminine Products

Make-up:

Foundation

Lipstick

Powder Compact

Eyeliner

Moisturizer

Facial Cleanser/Cleansing Cloths

Ponytail Holders

Jaws/Clips

Perfume

Hairspray/Gel

Jewelry

​

Depending on your family, it may just be you or you may need to have a separate list for you and your kids. If you can, I would slowly buy extras of these items and put them into a bag that is specifically for this reason! Some items like shampoo can be shared while it is a good idea to have a new toothbrush instead of scrambling trying to remember the one you use everyday especially if you keep these items in a different room!