Out of the Cold: has been recognized by the Mayor of Toronto
By Bob Charendoff.
Holy Blossom Temple’s Out of the Cold program is honoured to have been recognized by the Mayor of Toronto, John Tory, for its ongoing work in easing the plight of homeless and socially isolated people in our city. As HBT OOTC is in its 20th season, it is particularly special to be acknowledged in this wonderful way.
On November 3, 2015, Toronto’s City Council unanimously voted on TO Prosperity: Toronto’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. Prior to that, Holy Blossom Temple and Ward 21 Councillor Joe Mihevc hosted an open forum, inviting the community to discuss and provide input into this strategy. Clearly, the Mayor’s office is taking seriously the tragic, and often fatal, situation on our streets. Holy Blossom Temple Out of the Cold is proud to be an active participant in this fight, and to be included as a partner of City Hall in this crucial initiative.
Of course, this program relies on an immensely dedicated group of over 450 volunteers that, week-in and week-out, give their time and energy to providing a warm, welcoming and dignified experience for its homeless guests – not to mention the hot, nutritious meal, clothing, and a safe place to sleep.
This recognition is for all of those volunteers, without whom Holy Blossom Temple Out of the Cold simply would not be. Thanks and praise to all of them!
How wonderful that this good work has been recognized by our Mayor. And how sad it is that this program continues to be needed. We’ve been a part of it from the very beginning (the program came into being during Elliott’s term as President of the Board) and look forward to the day when we’re out of business because everyone has adequate food, shelter, and companionship.