From Al: Hello! My workplace Sherbourne Health runs Supporting Our Youth (SOY), a program that has transformed the lives of countless 2SLGBTQ youth and young adults, including my own. I found friends and community when I joined a SOY program in 2014, an experience that mirrors many trans, racialized, street-involved/underhoused, sex-working, disabled, low-income, and marginalized young queers in Toronto.  

I'm fundraising because SOY is working with a reduced budget -- a windfall of $90,000 -- this year, while managing increased need. The numbers in SOY's weekly drop-in programs for Black youth and trans youth have each doubled. 

We are currently the most visited 2SLGBTQ community programming provider for trans youth in Toronto. The impact of the pandemic on marginalized 2SLGBTQ youth means all our youth have reduced support to live safe, healthy, authentic lives.  

I especially want to support the amazing work of my colleagues, including, but not limited to, these folks:

-Patrick, a shining star who coordinates SOY's drop-in groups that happen four times a week, every week. 
-Morgan, who spearheaded Limin, an incredibly cooking program where Black youth explored their love for food.
-Maiesha, a SOY program worker who is incredibly passionate about helping and educating.

If you have the means to contribute, please do so! :)

SOY staff work tirelessly to offer:
-housing support queer and trans youth experiencing homelessness
- food and TTC tokens
-supports for newcomers
- four weekly drop-in groups
- skill development and case management
- fun, engaging programming
-and so much more!