01/22/2026
❄️ URGENT COMMUNITY REQUEST – EXTREME COLD WEATHER ❄️
Hey friends and family, with this weekend’s historic extreme cold hitting Toronto and across Ontario (with temperatures expected to feel as low as -30°C), we’re reaching out to ask for help supporting people in our city who are unhoused and incredibly vulnerable right now.
This weekend, Chris, the kids, and I will be heading downtown Toronto to personally hand out warm items to people living outside. With conditions this dangerous, having the right gear can truly be the difference between life and death.
📊 Some sobering local facts (Toronto & Ontario):
• A 2024 count estimated about 15,400 people are experiencing homelessness in Toronto, a number that has grown significantly in recent years
• Across Ontario, more than 80,000 people experienced homelessness in 2024
• Toronto Public Health reported 135 deaths among people experiencing homelessness in just the first half of 2024, with roughly 30% occurring outdoors
• People who are unhoused face far higher risks of hypothermia and cold-related death, especially during extreme weather events like this
These aren’t just statistics, they’re people in our community facing this brutal cold with little protection.
🧤 We’re collecting:
• Warm hats / beanies
• Mitts & gloves
• Thick socks
• Winter coats
• Blankets
• Sleeping bags
• Hand warmers or thermal layers
• Boots or waterproof footwear
If you have new or gently used items you’re able to donate, please message me and we’ll arrange pickup or drop-off.
Everything collected will be handed out directly downtown this weekend by our family.
💙 If you’re unable to donate physical items but would still like to help, we are also accepting monetary donations via e-transfer (even $1 makes a difference) to:
📧 [email protected] OR [email protected]
All donations will go directly toward supporting people in need. Financial donations will be used to purchase additional warm items, food, hot drinks, and gift cards so people can get what they need most. All donations will be recorded, and we’re happy to provide a thank-you receipt. Any and all support truly helps.
Even one item, one dollar, or one share can make a difference. ❤️
Thank you so much for helping us look out for our neighbours during this extreme cold
