Oh, what a night. It was late November, back in ’23. Three Society staff decided to resurrect the Society Holiday Goodies Exchange, a cookie exchange, which had been on hiatus since the COVID years.
For those who did not wish to bake, a $10 donation could be made in lieu in order to allow more people to participate. The money raised would be donated to an organization that assists homeless and unhoused people in Toronto. Organizers decided on the Fred Victor Mission (Fred Victor - Leader In Ending Homelessness in Toronto).
And then things took off. Challenges among staff and elected people began and, before we knew it, we had amassed hundreds of dollars of donations. The Society’s Staff Union (SSU) stepped in and donated $1000, which was then met and exceed by the Society Board who donated $2,500! By end of day on December 6, 2023, we had raised $4,550 for the Fred Victor Mission.
In speaking with a representative of the organization, we were informed that they are being supported this month in a matching program, so our donation doubles in value to $9100! If you wish to add to the Society’s staff and Board’s extraordinary efforts, please visit the donation page: Make a donation today! - Secure Donation Form - Fred Victor.
Additionally, during the fundraising efforts, another organization was recommended for support: Sistering (www.sistering.org). Sistering offers practical and emotional support to those who experience social isolation, homelessness or precarious housing, trauma and violence, discrimination, substance use, or need mental health support. The work of Sistering is well known and so very valuable. We are happy to report that we have also raised $4350 for Sistering, thanks to $1,000 from the SSU and $2,500 from the Society Board. If you wish to donate to Sistering please visit the donation page: Financial Donations - Sistering
Thank you to everyone who stepped up and donated, it has been such a wonderful thing to witness.
