My (Sarah Robinson, founder of TCI) personal journey from homelessness to founding a local charity (Toronto Cares Initiative) has shown me firsthand the immense struggles faced by our unhoused neighbors. It underscored the undeniable importance of providing tangible help — a warm meal, a pair of boots, or a jacket to brave the cold.

THE REQUEST:  Stop limiting Direct-aid events (without permits) to under 25 people for organizations! There are thousands of unhoused in the city, who ALL deserve food & clothing. Organizations should not be required to turn people away due to event size limits.

In the United States alone, over half a million people are experiencing homelessness on any given night. These figures significantly rise during colder months, where life on the streets becomes unbearably hard (National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2020) This is no different here in Canada, where we are in the midst of a housing crisis, which is forcing more of our neighbours into homelessness. Our city parks are homes for a significant number of these individuals, many of whom depend on the generosity of strangers for their next meal or for warm clothing. 

Therefore, this appeal is urging our community leaders to prioritize and formally organize a motion to the City of Toronto to allow the distribution of food and clothing to the unhoused in our city parks without permits. Preventing community members from supporting the unhoused creates harm, that could be avoided, by not allowing this life-saving support from one neighbour to another. Requiring a permit that takes 8-weeks for approval, if it's approved at all, is just another barrier created by a patriarchal system and colonial government, to keep marginalized populations down. Addressing this issue means we do not just walk by; rather, we recognize the humanity in each person and take action to provide support where it is critically needed. 

Please, join us in signing this petition, to show your commitment to our fellow citizens, and to create a community where everyone is valued and cared for.

PHOTO NOTE: This is our amazing TCI volunteers, handing out food, toiletries and clothing at Moss Park in spring of 2024.

DIRECT DONATIONS & CONTACTS:

• Toronto Cares Initiative: www.toronto-cares.ca/donate
• GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/7a6c30ba

Much Love ❤️ The Toronto Cares Team