In My Opinion: Beach community’s kindness and generosity shown in support of newcomers

By ERIN HORROCKS-POPE

I’ve been part of both the Beach and Beach Metro communities my whole life. From delivering the paper with my parents as a small child to writing articles for its pages as an adult, this neighbourhood has always had a special place in my heart. I’ve even delivered the paper with my own young children to our East York neighbours.

Throughout all these years, I’ve always known the Beaches-East York community to be one that values strong social bonds and neighbourly support. Last month, that spirit of generosity truly took my breath away, and I couldn’t be more proud to call this place home.

In the fall of 2024, I shifted careers into the non-profit sector, moving from a career of journalism and communications to working with the Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto (MNLCT).

Here, I get to support newcomers to Canada as part of an incredible team dedicated to guiding them through the various challenges they face as they settle into their new lives.

One of many services we offer at MNLCT is a free community pantry and closet that is available to all members of the community, regardless of their immigration status or citizenship.

The need is great, especially this year. After a particularly harsh winter, many of the items in our pantry and closet have been taken by those in need; people who are finding it harder than ever to make ends meet.

In an attempt to replenish some of these resources, I put out a call on a few local Facebook groups, hoping to gather a few donated items—perhaps some socks, maybe a couple of cans of soup. What happened next was nothing short of overwhelming.

The response from my neighbours was incredible. Complete strangers who had no connection to me or MNLCT stepped up and offered donations in droves. People went through their closets and homes, contributing everything from gently used clothes to brand new socks, underwear, hats, and gloves.

The generosity and kindness of this community were evident in every donation, and I spent an entire weekend collecting all the goods. My SUV was absolutely filled to the brim with bags and boxes of donations-items that would make an immense difference in the lives of those who need them most.

This outpouring of support left me deeply moved and incredibly proud. It’s not just about the donations, it’s about the spirit of giving that runs through our community.

The Beach has always been a place where people look out for one another, where neighbours care for their own, and where we understand that when we help one another, we all benefit. Whether it’s a neighbour offering a few items from their pantry or a stranger purchasing brand new winter gear, it’s clear that kindness and compassion are alive and well here.

As I continue my work with newcomers at MNLCT, I’m reminded daily of the importance of community. Our neighbours, who may come from diverse backgrounds, share a common desire to build a better, more inclusive world. In a time when it can sometimes feel like we’re disconnected from one another, moments like this serve as a reminder of just how much good can come from a community that cares.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who donated and supported our community pantry and closet.
Your kindness has made a world of difference, and I’m proud to be part of such a generous and welcoming community.
The Beach truly is a place where hearts are big, and compassion is abundant.

If you would like to donate items, please email me at epope@mnlct.org, or to learn more about MNLCT and support our mission to walk alongside newcomers, visit our website at https://mnlct.org/

All types of contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of those building a new life in our communities. Thank you for your support!