Get ready to feel the excitement, because Pride Toronto is absolutely thrilled to announce that we’ve selected not just one, but TWO incredible Charities of Choice for this year’s Festival! We’ve carefully chosen Friends of Ruby and the Stephen Lewis Foundation for their outstanding contributions and vital support of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. During the Festival, we’ll be shining a spotlight on these amazing organizations and rallying support for their important missions and initiatives. Let’s come together to make a difference and show our love and support for these fantastic charities! Get ready to feel the excitement, because Pride Toronto is absolutely thrilled to announce that we’ve selected not just one, but TWO incredible Charities of Choice for this year’s Festival! We’ve carefully chosen Friends of Ruby and the Stephen Lewis Foundation for their outstanding contributions and vital support of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. During the Festival, we’ll be shining a spotlight on these amazing organizations and rallying support for their important missions and initiatives. Let’s come together to make a difference and show our love and support for these fantastic charities!
The Stephen Lewis Foundation
Founded 20 years ago, The Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF) champions health and human rights alongside more than 100 community-based organizations working on the frontlines of the HIV pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa. A progressive, feminist organization rooted in social justice and international solidarity, its focus is supporting partners cutting the AIDS pandemic off at its roots by providing care and support to women, orphaned children, grandmothers, and the LGBTIQ communities . Through their Partners in Pride campaign, the SLF supports 14 LGBTIQ organizations and their leaders, who live in environments characterized by violent homophobia, legally entrenched discrimination, and political and social persecution. These organizations are lifelines for LGBTIQ communities, providing vital health care, mental health support, social support, and legal counsel.
Friends of Ruby ensures the 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (ages 16 to 29) of the Greater Toronto Area are validated, included and empowered to live healthier lives. They create welcoming and safe spaces for youth to participate in their various programs and services, including mental health, housing, wellness, education, employment, and inclusion through activities that meet 2SLGBTQIA+ youth needs. All programs and services are led and facilitated by 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, informed by 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and grounded in evidence and research. The facility is accessible, energy efficient, and pet-friendly.
