Dear Neighbours,
We’re excited to announce the launch of our Winter Fundraiser and invite you all to come together to help break the cycle of social isolation in the East End!
At the Ralph Thornton Community Centre (RTCC), we are committed to creating spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, share, learn, and build meaningful relationships. By supporting our local programs, you can make a real difference in breaking the cycle of social isolation, bringing warmth, care, and connection to those in need. From our Exchange Loft to the Seniors Program, Wellness Line, and Repair Café events, your generosity is crucial in strengthening our community and helping people feel supported and valued.
Seniors Program & Wellness Line: Creating Connections, Building Community
Our Seniors Program offers a blend of light exercise, educational workshops, and recreational activities each week, helping seniors stay engaged, active, and connected. In the past year, 25 seniors participated in 42 enriching sessions, building friendships, sharing experiences, and forming bonds in a supportive environment.
The Wellness Line provides confidential emotional and mental health support over the phone for seniors, offering compassionate listening, practical advice, and helpful referrals to address stress, anxiety, and other challenges.
Last year, we made 419 calls through this service, helping seniors feel heard, supported, and less isolated.
These programs do more than provide learning—they create opportunities for seniors to stay connected, engaged, and part of something meaningful. Your donation helps ensure these programs continue to thrive, offering crucial services that keep our community vibrant and connected.
Exchange Loft: Connecting Through Technology and Support
The Exchange Loft is a drop-in computer lab and community hub, providing free access to desktop computers, Wi-Fi, tech support, fax machines, a phone, a scanner, low-cost printing, and more. Last year, we welcomed over 7,000 visits, kept our doors open for 300 days, and provided 3,100 hours of access and support to those in need.
This space helps bridge the digital divide and ensures that everyone in our community has the resources to stay connected and engaged, regardless of their circumstances.
Repair Hub: Turning Simple Repairs into Social Experiences
One of the most unique ways we bring people together is through our Repair Hub, which organizes free community events where volunteers help repair clothes, electronics, and more. These events extend beyond just fixing things—they turn simple repairs into opportunities for neighbours to connect, share skills, and learn from each other.
This year, we hosted a Repair Café with 20 fixers and 70 attendees, plus two skill-building workshops with 25 spots each. These events are about community-building, one repair at a time!
How You Can Help
Your donation ensures that these local programs at RTCC continue to provide spaces for people to come together, learn, share, and form lasting relationships. Every contribution helps combat social isolation and strengthens our community. Here’s how your support can make a difference:
- $20 brings joy and connection to a senior with a heartfelt call from the Wellness Line.
- $150 fosters community and provides access to technology and support for an evening in the Exchange Loft.
- $250 turns simple repairs into shared moments of learning and connection during an hour of a Repair Hub event.
- $500 fills a full day with smiles, discovery, and engagement through our enriching Seniors Program.
If you have the means, please consider donating today!
Click HERE to make a meaningful impact!
Or visit Duke’s Refresher+ Bar at 709 Queen Street East and ask your server to top up your bill throughout the month of December!
No matter the amount, every gift makes difference.
Together, we can break the cycle of social isolation and create a more connected, caring community.
For more information, check out our FAQ HERE!