As we settle into the new year, I’d like to reflect on the remarkable strides we made in 2023.

I’m thrilled to announce that the City of Toronto and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) have extended their partnership with LOFT for another year. This expansion will allow our M-DOT program to continue offering outreach support within the TTC. In December, LOFT’s Director of Mental Health and Homelessness Services, Sarah Collins, and Program Manager, Ryan White, joined CBC to discuss this collaboration and our M-DOT program.

LOFT’s Board of Directors demonstrated exceptional generosity in December by committing to match all donations up to $40,000. We not only met this goal but exceeded it—a big thank you to everyone who supported us during the holiday season.

In 2023, our team witnessed significant growth, and we are proud to enter 2024 with over 1,000 staff members working across the GTA and Simcoe Region. As a part of our commitment to fostering a community of learning and connection, we started hosting open houses last year. These activities allow our staff, clients, and supporters to visit and learn about programs beyond their usual focus. We received an overwhelming response and have decided to introduce tours of other locations in the new year.

In Bradford West Gwillimbury, I am pleased to announce that LOFT will start constructing new housing in Spring 2024. The new property will be located at 31 Frederick Street and will provide affordable and supportive housing for 99 vulnerable seniors and older adults. This relocation will enable us to support 60 more residents than our current Barrie Street building, addressing the critical need for accessible support services and housing for seniors and older adults in the Bradford community.

As we step into 2024, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and what we will continue to accomplish together.