Visiting Partners: Wychwood Open Door
Jan 13th, 2010 by Jenna Charlton
Just before the holidays I had the opportunity to visit Wychwood Open Door, one of Not Far From The Tree’s partner organizations in Ward 21. Wychwood Open Door’s mission “is to reduce social isolation, boost nutrition and help develop life skills among homeless and socially isolated people.” One key component of the program is to serve three full meals every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. During the harvest season Not Far From The Tree provides fresh fruit to the program’s participants.
It was a very memorable experience and an honour to meet and chat with volunteers and participants. I was invited to stay for lunch and enjoy some of the amazing food being served up. The Open Door program is truly open to everyone. Some of the volunteers and participants travel across the city to meet with friends, receive home-cooked nutritious meals, and enjoy some company.
Some of the stories I heard over lunch were difficult tales of what it means to be homeless in Toronto, while others were uplifting stories that inspired hope. What was more than apparent was the need for community and for people to feel a true sense of belonging. The coordinators, volunteers, and participants have accomplished that sense of community. Wychwood Open Door is a place that brings together people and organizations from the neighbourhood and beyond. It is a place that creates partnerships, not just to help its own cause, but also to help other organizations and groups. The neighbourhood fruit, and the community building inherent in Not Far From The Tree’s work, has made our project a welcome partner to the Open Door’s longstanding work.
Wychwood Open Door Trivia Night!
If you would like to learn more about Wychwood Open Door and meet some of the folks, the organization is hosting a Trivia Night fundraiser at the Wychwood Barns on February 6th, 2010.
The Event:
“Compete with your friends and neighbours in six rounds of family-friendly pop culture trivia to see who has the biggest brain. CBC’s Kevin Sylvester will emcee the evening while a different local celebrity calls each round of trivia. Prizes will be awarded to the top teams, and everyone will enjoy live music, a cash bar, snacks and a silent art auction.”
To purchase tickets or read more about the evening please visit:
