February Updates:

Strengthening Support Through Connection, Truth & Action

With the new year well underway, February marks an important step forward in how we support others. These updates are not about limiting help—they are about creating clear, respectful pathways of support that protect our donors, volunteers, community partners, and the people who rely on this support.

Our efforts now move through three connected parts: in-person outreach, structured online assistance, and open community conversations that bring education, truth, and action together.

Part One: In-Person Outreach (Ongoing)

This work has been happening for years and continues every week.

📍 Tuesdays

• 11:30 AM — Midtown Mall

• Around noon — Memorial Park

Weather may affect timing, and we may arrive 10–15 minutes late during poor conditions.

We walk through the mall and park with a sign that reads: “Free Hugs — Ask Us How to Get a Free Sandwich.”

It’s simple:

• A fist bump or a hug = a friend

• A friend can receive a sandwich

After more than 15 years assisting on the streets, connection remains at the heart of this work. A smile. A short conversation. Sometimes just listening. Free hugs are about human connection, dignity, and compassion.

LIFE — Love Is For Everyone.

Part Two: Online Support Requests (Structured & Growing)

The second part introduces structured online requests for assistance, starting with free sandwich delivery and expanding for those who demonstrate reliability and genuine need.

📦 Free Sandwich Delivery

• Delivered between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM

• Prepared in a licensed kitchen, following Durham Region Health regulations

• Food is never left unattended

Respect and reliability matter

• Missed deliveries without communication result in removal from the program

• Advance notice allows us to try to arrange alternatives

• If no one is present at delivery, food is redirected to others in need

These boundaries exist to respect donors, volunteers, and limited resources.

Why We Use Stepping Stones

This is not an entitlement-based program.

Support begins with a free sandwich. From there, assistance grows only when respect, consistency, and real need are shown.

Additional support may include:

• Weekly bread and supplies (4–5 days per person)

• Care packages when available

• Clothing and basic necessities

• Extra food support when donations allow

At this stage, many are encouraged to meet in person and may be invited to join the ILFJL Collective, opening the door to deeper support options.

Health, Wellness & Truth — Open Community Chat

We host a weekly Open Chat: Health, Wellness & Truth, a key part of the Not Just A Food Program.

📍 Fridays | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 74 Simcoe St S, Unit #102 📍 Book Dragon’s Den

These open conversations are a space to learn, ask questions, and understand how support connects—from food assistance to health and wellness education, and even becoming a volunteer.

Event Expectations

Because this chat is held inside a local business, we ask all attendees to:

• Dress appropriately

• Maintain proper hygiene

• Respect the space, staff, and other guests

These expectations help ensure the space remains welcoming, safe, and available for everyone.

Why These Conversations Matter

Being poor and experiencing food insecurity directly affects:

• Physical health

• Mental health

• Long-term wellness

• Access to healthy choices

Many people are forced to eat food that harms their health—not by choice, but by necessity.

At these weekly chats, you can:

• Learn about types of support available

• Understand why health and wellness are critical when resources are limited

• Hear honest truths about food insecurity

• Explore real, practical options for improving health and wellness over time

This is where education meets action.

Real Options. Real Solutions.

The Not Just A Food Program is about more than food—it is about helping people move forward.

Support may include:

• Simple nutrition improvements (teas, spices, basic food education)

• Honest conversations about health realities

• Help stretching limited resources

• Assistance finding clothing or necessities so funds can go toward food or medical needs

This program is for:

• Those truly struggling

• Those willing to show respect

• Those wanting change

• Those ready to take small, realistic steps toward better health and stability

Clear Boundaries. Real Hope.

Free support begins with sandwiches. From there, we build foundations—not dependency.

Through in-person outreach, structured assistance, and open conversations rooted in truth, we are creating real pathways toward dignity, health, and hope for better days ahead.

LIFE — Love Is For Everyone.

What’s Coming Next — March Educational Events

We will also be launching additional hands-on educational events starting in March, focused on practical skills for real-world conditions.

Upcoming topics will include:

• How to Make and Use a Tarp Tent

• How to Make a Bedroll

• How to Keep Yourself and Your Belongings Dry in Bad Weather

These sessions are about knowledge, preparation, and dignity—real skills that help people stay safer, warmer, and more resilient when conditions are difficult.

📢 Watch for event announcements coming soon.

LIFE — Love Is For Everyone.