As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.
– Mary Anne Radmacher
This quote by Radmacher came to mind while reflecting on the events that occurred in 2020. We might not have survived until now if it weren’t for the unexpected heroes of this year. Before we bid 2020 goodbye, why not end the year right by donating to charity groups and making others happy? You can also offer your time toward volunteer work. It’s never too late to start making a difference, and you can take action today.
Here are five charitable non-profit organizations close to Liberty Village, where you can either donate or volunteer.
Parkdale Community Food Bank
1499 Queen Street West Toronto, Ontario, M6R 1A3
Registered Charity Number: 81201 6210 RR0001
Let’s start with Parkdale Community Food Bank. As active supporters of underprivileged communities, they serve holistic meals to people who fit this category on a weekly basis. In addition to providing staples such as canned or perishable goods, they also offer fresh vegetables, meat, and fish. Their mission is to end poverty by promoting a good dietary lifestyle.
Currently, they are urgently looking for volunteer delivery drivers who have their own vehicles. You can also apply to volunteer with packing goods from their warehouse.
Since their source of funding is provided through donations, you can support Parkdale Community Food Bank by contributing directly to their site. To learn more about how volunteering works in Parkdale, check out this video.
Habitat For Humanity Greater Toronto Area
Habitat ReStore Etobicoke
700 Kipling Ave. Unit 600/500/400 Toronto, ON. M8Z 5G3
Habitat ReStore Studio District
3 Carlaw Ave. Toronto, ON. M4M 2R6
Registered Charity Number: 13382 4680 RR0001
Having a roof over our heads gives us a sense of security. However, homelessness continues to rise at an alarming rate. This is what Habitat for Humanity has been fighting for since its 1985 establishment in Canada.
Volunteering with Habitat offers significant advantages. In addition to experiencing the opportunity to make a difference, you will also develop a variety of skills that will be valuable to you in the future. Learn more about the volunteering programs here.
Additionally, you can donate new or gently used furniture, building materials, or appliances to their Habitat ReStore. The process is simple—donate your goods in person or arrange for pick-up at no cost.
* Habitat ReStore won’t be accepting drop-off donations at Toronto, York, and Peel Region stores due to COVID-19 restrictions. Durham locations may accept drop-off donations between 11 AM to 4 PM only.
Etobicoke Humane Society
67 Six Point Road Toronto, Ontario M8Z 2X3
Registered Charity Number: 13116 7629 RR0001
Etobicoke Humane Society is an animal shelter organization. Their “no-kill shelter” motto has remained well-known in the community for over 30 years.
EHS aims to provide shelter for cats and dogs before finding their forever homes. They ensure that these fur buddies are prepared for adoption through a series of special services including veterinary care, behavioral training, and psychological comfort.
If you love to be around animals during this busy season, why not become a cat or a dog volunteer? Another way to support EHS is serving as a one-time or monthly donor. Any amount can help improve the lives of these pets.
* Due to the pandemic, fewer volunteers are permitted to work in their small shelters.
Florence Booth House
723 Queen St West Toronto, ON M6J 1E6
Registered Charity Number: 10795 1618 RR0001
This charity organization is similar to Habitat, but its objective is more targeted to a specific demographic. Florence Booth House has built a strong reputation for helping the homeless—primarily women who have no voice to be heard and are particularly vulnerable to health-related harm and sexual assault.
Florence Booth House’s mission is to provide basic needs such as meals and shelter to women aged 16 and above who struggle with domestic abuse, unemployment, or addiction. This house delivers emotional support through counseling therapy and housing assistance.
If you have toiletries to spare, these can be donated by contacting the organization or emailing them through their website. You may directly donate funds through Paypal or your credit card by clicking Florence Booth House at the bottom of this page. You can also volunteer your time to help women in the Florence Booth House.
Liberty Village Cares
Our final charity group is one that represents our local community. Liberty Village Cares is a jovial group of self-driven residents who consider each other “family”. They are the individuals who inspire the Liberty Village community to stay engaged, inspire, and ultimately make a difference.
Started solely as a way to connect with Liberty Village residents, they have since made a significant amount of contributions to society including fundraising, volunteering, and other giving opportunities.
An especially unique component of LVC is the wide variety of events to choose from. Through their Facebook group, you can even create your own team of fundraisers. To learn more about the events and donations, join the group here.
