Here's how you can help solve homelessness in Toronto:
- Learn
about homelessness
- Volunteer
-
Donate
Learn
about homelessness
You are already helping to solve homelessness by learning more about it.
Share your new knowledge with your family and friends. The next time someone
says something rude or unkind about a homeless person, set the record straight.
Listen to the stories
of people who have experienced homelessness. There are speakers’ bureaus
that involve formerly homeless people who like to share their stories.
Perhaps your teacher could invite one to your classroom or school.
The Dream Team is a group
of men and women living with mental illness, living in supportive housing;
many of them have been homeless.Contact them at info@thedreamteam.ca or
416-516-1422 ext. 250. Voices from the Street is another speakers’ bureau that raises awareness
of homelessness and mental health issues. Contact them at speakersbureau@bellnet.ca or 416-504-1693
ext. 228.
For more information
about speakers’ bureaus,
visit www.211toronto.ca and
type ‘speakers bureau’ in the search feature to get a list of
agencies that can send someone out to speak to your group.
Volunteer
There are many choices when it comes to volunteering. You can help at a
food bank by sorting food. You can help non-profit agencies raise money
at special events. You can even help people learn English in a refugee
shelter. Start your search in your own neighbourhood. Chances are good
you will find an agency nearby - a drop-in centre, a food bank, or
a community centre.
Tip: Many agencies want you to be 16 or older, so check age and other requirements.
Try www.volunteertoronto.ca
an online matching system for everyone over 13.
Donate
Socks are just one of the items you can donate to agencies helping homeless
people and those who are poorly housed. Food, clothing, and household
items are also needed. Please keep in mind that it is difficult for many
agencies to pick up donations.
Some agencies have limited storage space. Please call ahead before dropping
off donations.
Tip: Call
the agency to see what they really need before you donate or start to collect
items. Most agencies have a “wish list” of
items they could use.
A great way to connect with organizations that can use furniture and other
stuff you no longer need is to visit the City of Toronto's ReUseIt program.
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