City of Toronto invites holiday giving this Giving Tuesday through DonateTO

This Giving Tuesday, the City of Toronto invites interested donors to make a meaningful difference by contributing to community initiatives through the DonateTO portal. By giving back, donors can spread holiday cheer and support vital programs that strengthen communities across the city. 

In 2023, generous individuals and organizations donated approximately $1.59 million directly supporting initiatives that help Toronto thrive. 

Celebrate the Spirit of Giving
As Black Friday and Cyber Monday focus on holiday shopping, Giving Tuesday shines a spotlight on generosity. It only takes a few moments to brighten the season for someone else. 

Ways to give
Through the DonateTO portal, donors can contribute to a variety of causes including: 

• Shelter Services: The City’s annual Holiday Wish List connects donors with local community agencies supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Each agency has provided a list of needed items like warm clothes, hygiene products and gift cards, along with drop-off information.  
• Toronto Firefighters toy drive: New, unwrapped toys and gift cards can be dropped off at any Toronto Fire Station for the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association annual toy drive. Toronto’s 84 fire stations also accept non-perishable food donations for the Daily Bread Food Bank year-round.  
• Animal Services: Support medical care, supplies, veterinary programs for pet owners and training for shelter animals.  
• Support for refugee claimants: Connect with community agencies supporting refugee claimants in Toronto through the interactive map, helping address challenges like isolation, loneliness, financial strain and housing issues.  
• Long-Term Care homes: Donations will be directed to the purchase of technology (for example, tablets and robotic aides) and resident programming that include outings and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents.  
• Toronto Public Library (TPL) Foundation: Gifts will be tripled this Donating Tuesday thanks to a matching gift program made possible by members of TPLF’s Board of Directors and Governors’ Council. Funds will support TPL’s highest priority needs like children’s literacy and programs. Visit TPL Foundation website to learn more and donate. 

Since 2012, residents and businesses have donated more than $16 million to enhance vital City and partner programs. Every contribution helps make Toronto a more caring, compassionate city. 

Whether donating funds, goods or services, donors can visit DonateTO portal to make a difference – and learn where they can drop off toys or unperishable food at one of the main Toronto Fire Station locations. Torontonians can share their giving stories on social media using #GivingTuesday and inspire others to join the movement. 

Quotes:

“This giving Tuesday, the City invites Torontonians to embrace the spirit of the season by spreading kindness and generosity. Every act of giving has a ripple effect that strengthens our communities – by working together we can make the holiday season brighter for everyone.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow 

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.