Maria, a dedicated donor to LOFT, now enjoys a fulfilling life with stable employment, her own apartment, and wonderful friends. Her journey to success, however, was far from easy.

Arriving in Toronto from Montreal in her twenties, Maria left behind a difficult past. With no family or financial support, her first six years in Toronto were extremely tough. She found herself in and out of women’s shelters and relying heavily on food banks. Despite these hardships, Maria’s determination led her to college. However, her low income made it challenging to afford stable food, housing, and vital care. It was during this time that she found LOFT’s 416 Community Support for Women (416), which provided her with lifesaving support services.

“I wanted to live my life to the fullest, and I’m grateful to have met amazing people who believed in me and supported me”

Drop-in centres, like 416, provide nutritious meals and resources for women experiencing homelessness, mental health, and substance use challenges. Maria remembers arriving at 416 one day after lunch was served and was kindly offered food. “From that moment until I graduated from college, I went there as much as I could. I was extremely grateful. They inspired me to really push myself to grow into my best self.”

With the support of 416, Maria was able to secure stable employment and return to school in her late thirties at Toronto Metropolitan University. Today, she has a successful career as a paralegal, a safe and stable home, and a strong sense of community.

Maria is also choosing to give back, making her second gift-in-kind donation to LOFT. “I want to show my appreciation for the support. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve my personal success if LOFT’s 416 wasn’t there. I wanted to live my life to the fullest,” says Maria, “and I’m grateful to have met amazing people who believed in me and supported me.”