Jessica arrived in Canada six months ago claiming refugee status. Last November, she was let go from her job, and then evicted from her home when she was soon unable to pay rent, after having issues with immigration status.
Forced into homelessness, Jessica was couch surfing and staying with friends for a few weeks, however, in early December she had run out of options, according to a Blue Door news release.
Without housing or a job, and with her immigration status still unclear, Jessica was distraught and completely shaken up. It was at this time she was referred to Blue Door’s Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold.
Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold is a collaborative, community-driven interfaith program that provides warm beds, meals, clothing, medical care, showers, and much more to youth, adults and seniors experiencing homelessness during the winter.
Since entering the program in early December, Jessica has received confirmation that her refugee claim has been accepted, and the Blue Team team supported her in gathering OHIP documents to ensure medical coverage, and with the support of the housing workers and volunteers, Jessica successfully secured housing.
Many individuals in York Region like Jessica require assistance and with the support of Blue Door’s Mosaic Interfaith Out of Cold program, staff and volunteers can ensure that each individual is provided with the supports and services needed.
You can help by getting involved in Blue Door’s 2023 Coldest Night of the Year walk in Richmond Hill on Saturday, Feb. 25.
Blue Door’s Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold relies on community support and donations from Coldest Night of the Year – Richmond Hill to continue providing winter refuge and warm meals to those in need, Blue Door said.
The Coldest Night of the Year - Richmond Hill walk is a fun, family-friendly fundraising walk inviting Canadians to step outside the warmth and comfort of their home to shine a light of welcome, compassion, and inclusion in their communities.
“The Coldest Night of the Year – Richmond Hill walk has become one of the largest community events. We are so proud of the support we’ve received from the community over the past five years running this fundraiser,” said senior manager of seasonal programs at Blue Door Rehana Sumar. “The funds raised are so critical at this time, as the pandemic has put unprecedented pressure on community services.”
York Region has seen an increase in individuals experiencing homelessness over the past few years, and it is a crisis that is only getting bigger. Community support is needed now more than ever, Sumar said.
As Blue Door’s only annual fundraiser, Coldest Night allows the charity's programs to continue to provide life-saving supports and services to our community’s most vulnerable.
Funds raised support urgent needs and Blue Door’s Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold program, providing services to youth, adults, seniors, and families experiencing homelessness and poverty in York Region.
For the first time in two years, Blue Door will be hosting an in-person event on Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. at TMS Lower Campus – Richmond Hill. Registration is free.
There are many ways to get involved in Coldest Night of the Year and help Blue Door raise more than $150,000 needed to provide life-saving support.
- Become a sponsor. Opportunities range from $500 to $7,500.
- Sign up to Walk: Register a team and recruit team members to walk and fundraise. Registration is free.
- Spread the Word: The best way to get the word out is through community promotion. Consider promoting the event throughout your network.
Sponsors include Alectra, Kylemore, Beneva, LiUNA Local 506 Training Centre, City of Richmond Hill, Bingo World Richmond Hill, and TMS.
For more information about Coldest Night of the Year or Blue Door visit cnoy.org/location/richmondhill or www.BlueDoor.ca.
