Our Journey
Continues

2022–2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Our History

In 1929, during the Great Depression, Dixon Hall began as a soup kitchen, serving 1,400 meals a week to residents of Downtown East Toronto. By 1958, Dixon Hall joined the United Way of Toronto, and by 1970, we expanded our number of programs for broader and more impactful community service. In 1978, Dixon Hall’s music school began year-round teaching. In 1999, we started providing shelter services, and two years later, Dixon Hall opened its first shelter. The year after, we became part of Toronto’s Out of the Cold program. In 2014, we merged with Mid-Toronto Community Services, and became Dixon Hall Neighbourhood Services.

This was the start of nearly a decade of unprecedented growth and pivotal change, highlighted by the $3.1 million capital campaign to build the Bill Graham Youth Centre in Regent Park, serving children and youth and the Music School, now fully operational. Generous investments in our facilities continue to anticipate the need for expansion of community services and their effective delivery. The revitalization of the historic Dixon Hall headquarters that will provide collaborative program facilities, a major community hub, a training centre and enhancement of administrative services, is the latest example of Dixon Hall’s vision for the future.

Land Acknowlegment

We acknowledge that Dixon Hall’s programs and offices sit on the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples, and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

We also acknowledge that Tkaronto, now known as Toronto, is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit and the Williams Treaties signed with multiple Mississaugas and Chippewa bands.

Ancestral Acknowledgement

We all share our connection to the treaties that shape our nation, whether we arrived as settlers, immigrants, or newcomers in this current generation or in generations long past. It’s important to recognize that some among us have ancestral roots tied to the involuntary migration of the Trans-Atlantic Slave trade. Therefore, we also extend our respect and recognition to the ancestors of African Origin and Descent, honouring their enduring legacy.

Who We Are

Dixon Hall is a well-established multi-service agency in Toronto that provides a diverse range of integrated services for residents in the East Downtown core of Canada’s largest city. Our dedicated staff and volunteers serve more than 10,000 people annually, positively impacting the lives of the most vulnerable and the most at-risk members of our community. We work with at-risk youth, seniors, adults with physical and health disabilities, people who need housing, individuals searching for employment, those with mental health issues, and newly immigrated individuals and their families.

Mission, Vision and Values

Our Mission:

Create lasting solutions to end poverty, social injustices, and isolation in Toronto

Our Vision:

A city where everyone thrives

Our Values:

Respect

We believe that everyone has qualities and value worthy of admiration

Diversity

We believe in an inclusive culture of diverse thought, experience, and background

Integrity

Commitments we make will be commitments kept

Care and Compassion

We live out our commitment for social justice through thoughtful action

Accountability

We are responsible for our actions, and inaction

Inclusiveness

Dixon Hall is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects our diverse community to ensure we’re best equipped to serve it. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and those who may need accommodation to join our Board. Our commitment to excellence in diversity goes beyond promoting equity. By incorporating a variety of experiences and perspectives, we create opportunities for innovative solutions and maximize the impact of our work.

Board of Directors

Cameron Scrivens Chair

President, JCIC Asset Management Inc.

Susanne Gossage Vice-Chair

Director, Global Industry Analyst Relations, CGI

Jordana Greenberg Vice-Chair

Enterprise Account Executive, Google Cloud

Scott Bell Secretary

Partner, McCarthy Tétrault LLP

Ron Stokes Treasurer

Managing Partner, Financial Services Strategy and Transactions, EY

Tim Moseley Director

Chief Adjudicator, Capital Markets Tribunal

Dr. Robert Nam Director

Physician, Sunnybrook Hospital

Dave Mun Director

SVP, Insights & Client Engagement. Personal and Commercial Banking, Royal Bank of Canada

Donna Meyers Director

Retired Senior Executive, RBC

Kelly Lawless Director

Social Worker, Building Roots In Food Justice

Genevieve Eccleston Director

Investment Banking, Canaccord Genuity Group Inc.

Honorary Board Members

Thompson Egbo-Egbo

Barbara Volk

Leadership Team

Mina Mawani CEO
Faisal Ikram Director, Marketing & Communications
Ming Smith Director, People & Culture

Alison Booth Director, Finance
Janet Lambert Interim Director, Children & Youth
Laura Stenberg Director, Special Projects

Christine Chow Director, Seniors’ Services
Bob McKitrick Director, Music School
Logendra Thayalan Director, Philanthropy

Peter Edney Director, Real Estate & Property Management
David Reycraft Director, Housing Services
Fulya Vekiloglu Director, Employment Services

CEO and Board Chair Joint Message

It is with immense gratitude and pride that we present Dixon Hall’s Annual Report for our fiscal year 2023. This year has been a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff, the resilience of the communities we serve, and the continued support of our donors, partners, and volunteers. In the waning months of the pandemic, Dixon Hall remained steadfast in its mission to create opportunities for people of all ages to dream, achieve, and live fulfilling lives. Our pursuit of excellence remains relentless, as we continuously seek ways to improve and evolve. Here are some of our key achievements.

Dixon Hall’s Housing department persevered through challenging COVID protocols, then was faced with emergency shelter hotel closures and our mandate to relocate those residents, sometimes on short notice, truly a Herculean task. Our Seniors’ Services continued its Meals on Wheels and lifestyle supports that met the challenge of food insecurity, health, and wellness among older residents. Overall, we provided more than 700,000 meals across all our programs.

As the MIRA | Dixon Hall Centre, our unique partnership with McMaster University, gained momentum in early 2023, the programs and studies attached to it are providing ample early evidence and returns that will see seniors live better, healthier lives.

At the other end of the age spectrum, Children and Youth Services and the Music School always give us immense hope and satisfaction as we continued to adapt our engagement strategies to better serve our youngest residents, thanks to vital public and private funding. The multi-year BLOCK (Building Leadership Out of Community Kids) program helped teenagers who are vulnerable and at risk of anti-social influences, while the Music School flourished with record enrolment at the Bill Graham Youth Centre.

Dixon Hall’s Employment Services and our Settlement Services share the common goal of helping clients gain employment, with each department serving different audiences in different ways. Nearly 2,000 residents benefited from a comprehensive offering of programs and support by Employment Services, while Settlement Services helped over 350 newcomers and their families begin to live and work in Toronto.

It’s often said that success breeds success, and revitalization of our historic headquarters at 58 Sumach Street, nearing completion, is a milestone of renewal, success in community building, empowerment, and hope.

During 2022, leading into early 2023, the faith that was shown by our funders, supporters, donors, volunteers and our community, inspires us as Dixon Hall continues to make an enormous difference in the lives of over 10,000 residents annually. All are owed the human dignity of a decent meal, a place to live, with supports that help them truly belong in the largest, most diverse city in Canada.

Realizing our vision of creating a city where everyone thrives is a never-ending quest, and we are forever grateful to those within our community who share Dixon Hall’s vision by means of enduring, loyal support.

Warmest regards,

Mina Mawani CEO

Cameron Scrivens Board Chair

Dixon Hall Makes a Difference!

Select the plus icon to expand and read more about each service.

Lives We Touched

Shelter for over 500 residents daily

170 residents supportively housed in The Rooming House Project

Our Impact

4 shelters and 3 emergency shelter hotels managed

547,500 meals to shelter residents

More than 40,000 Harm Reduction kits distributed in the community

80 residents connected to urgent primary care

Social, mental health, and accessibility services for 170 tenants in The Rooming House Project

What Our Clients Say

“It really opened my eyes to people who use drugs and that they need lots of support.”

Harm Reduction Support Client

“There just isn’t one bad thing I can say about staff.”

J., Shelter Resident

Lives We Touched

Over 2,100 seniors supported through a broad spectrum of services

Our Impact

Meals on Wheels – 67,000 deliveries to isolated seniors

Seniors assisted: Community Transportation – 1,076, Telephone Check in and Reassurance – 641, Respite relief for caregivers – 436

Number of Services provided: Assisted Living for Seniors – 6,763, Seniors Active Living Centre Programs – 2,853

What Our Clients Say

“Everything in this activity is amazing. Hoping it continues and offer other activities. Everyone involved and participants are very good. Good job!”

Strides for Health Senior

Lives We Touched

More than 550 youth, ages 4 to 29, nurtured by positive learning, recreation, and focused Individual support

Our Impact

BLOCK Program Focused support for 150 at risk youth, ages 12 to 17

Growing Up Healthy Downtown programs: Youth Basketball – 108 Participants, Youth at Risk – 60 drop-ins, Summer Campers – 114 youth

Lives We Touched

Nearly 2,000 participants in workshops, skills training, job search, and one-on-one employment counselling

Our Impact

Over 300 hybrid workshops, trainings, and information sessions

Job seekers – 216 assisted (130 employed)

Literacy and Basic Skills – 48 learners

Youth Incubator/Better Food Work – 34 graduated

Building Resilience/Career Path Development – 42 graduated

What Our Clients Say

“These courses helped me to see where I am, how I’m positioned in the job world, and my experience with Dixon Hall restored and built my confidence to return to education and meet my goals.”

Lliam, Employment Services Client

Lives We Touched

Over 350 newcomers welcomed and helped in Downtown East Toronto

Our Impact

Newcomers directly assisted shortly after arrival – 357

Newcomers provided with a settlement plan – 140

Referrals to local agencies supporting newcomers – 250

What Our Clients Say

“With the help of Settlement Services, my child was enrolled in the day-care centre with day-care subsidy and I am able to work to support my family. I am being grateful for the assistance I received.”

Settlement Services Client

Lives We Touched

Over 300 students, ages 5 to 29, learning music, experiencing performance, and having fun at Dixon Hall music camps

Our Impact

Music teachers engaged – 23

Classes taught – 22

Students in public performance – 30

Experiential learning and social skills building at music camps

Adapted Music Lessons and Music Therapy successfully introduced

What Our Clients Say

“It has been incredibly rewarding to witness these students reach new milestones and experience the joy of musicianship. I believe that this program will continue to be a representation of how Dixon Hall strives to better the lives of all members of the community.”

Hayley Nauton, Teacher, Adapted Music Lessons and Music Therapy

Lives We Touched

Total volunteer hours – 9,037

Over 300 volunteers gave of their time to Dixon Hall

7 volunteers each donated over 100 hours

Our Impact

Backbone of Meals on Wheels for Seniors’ Services

Instrumental in Seniors’ Services Telephone Check in and Reassurance program for isolated seniors and local residents

Engaged supportive corporations in focused volunteer projects and during the holiday season

What Our Clients Say

“Volunteering provided me with self-worth. I felt good doing and helping other people. Doing this type of community service enabled me to seek help and counselling support.”

Volunteer who later joined Dixon Hall in peer support

Order of Dixon

The Order of Dixon was created on Dixon Hall’s 80th Anniversary to recognize those who have made outstanding voluntary contributions that have impacted the life and work of Dixon Hall. Since 2009, the Agency has annually selected deserving candidates to receive Dixon Hall’s highest honour, and recipients are recognized by the Board at the Annual General Meeting.

The Order of Dixon’s Hall of Fame is an honour roll of exceptional voluntary service.

Hall of Fame

2021
Rod Bolger
Monty Hanson
Fredrick Campbell
2020
Leona Lowe
Joan Savage
2019
Jean Alleyne
Marie-Paule Houle
Thomas Chan
Mitchell Cohen
Julianna Critchley
Patricia Woolner

2018
Alex Hahn
John Henderson
Richard Mak
2017
Darren Cooner
Carine Chan
Arthur Gray
Leonard Chimienti
Pam McConnell
Nicholas Volk
2016
Bob Rae
Elliott Jacobson

2015
Allan Ireland
Susan Kaufman
Kate Stark
2014
Vivien D’zau
Charlie Witherell
2013
Pat McNamara
Lily Szetol
2012
Gordon Henderson
Robert Heyding

2011
Pat Bearclaw
Peter Halsall
2010
Pat MacKay
Barbara Volk
2009
Neil Clarke
Barbara Dixon
Patrick Gossage
Bill and Cathy Graham
Steve Hudson
Tony Minard
Robert Patillo
Ada Slaight
Gary Slaight

Years of Service

Dixon Hall gratefully acknowledges our Staff with more than 10 years of service, with sincere thanks for being instrumental in achieving our mission and vision.

40 Years
Carmen Benoit

30 Years
Nancy Consalvo
Christine Chow
Anne Jeffers
Veronica Thompson

20 Years
Jalal Barkhordar
Yasami Bijanzadeh
Dinath Delabarrera
Ana Gomes
Norman Shao
George Tonka

10 Years
Zahra Jama
Dade Moyo
Bilkis Nahar
Huong Nguyen
Mira Zolotic

Housing Services

Housing has a significant role in fulfilling Dixon Hall’s mission and vision, and we are a leader in the community service sector in shelter administration, harm reduction, implementation of supportive housing models, and creation of permanent mixed housing projects. During 2022, leading into 2023, Dixon Hall staff adapted to a reorganization of shelter options available from the City of Toronto, careful to ensure that residents were not unduly disrupted or displaced. At the same time, both The Rooming House Project and the ongoing Bond Place Hotel conversion continued to evolve. Both are beacons of hope for reaching the goal of universal housing security in Toronto. Our dedicated staff found new ways to reach out to residents faced with housing insecurity, including food and health support of those in the Allen Gardens encampment, and further initiatives that involved casual employment of Rooming House Project tenants with the Cabbagetown BIA and gardening to grow self-sustaining fruit and vegetables. The quality of our services, the resourcefulness and impact of our programs, and the excellence of our front-line staff continue to place Dixon Hall at the forefront of leadership in Toronto’s response to its emergency housing crisis.

Shelter for over 500 residents DAILY!

The Successful Relocation of J.

J. resided in a temporary COVID-19 shelter hotel for about a year. During his stay there, he found the staff extremely helpful, observing that, “There just isn’t one bad thing I could say about staff.” He was happy with the size of his room and felt that it resembled ‘home’. Anxious over news of the shelter hotel’s closure, given his four-year history of homelessness, J. felt concerned that he may have to return to the congregate shelter system as it was prior to the pandemic, losing his room and privacy. Happily, J. was rapidly re-housed in a unit at St. Hilda’s. Several months after settling in, J. is enjoying watching a football game in peace and he also has several channels to choose from, “I have a picture for the wall and am finishing decorating the apartment.” J. is extremely grateful to have a space of his own and is thankful for the assistance he received from Dixon Hall.

(J.’s name withheld for privacy reasons)

Seniors’ Services

The pandemic brought into sharp focus how isolated and vulnerable many seniors are in Downtown East Toronto. With increasing numbers of clients, a diverse demographic, and greater need for more responsive programs, particularly in person, the need for Dixon Hall’s Seniors’ Services has never been greater. The most challenging issue is food insecurity among older adults, which significantly impacts health and wellness. Thanks to dedicated staff and volunteers, Dixon Hall has responded by delivering over 67,000 meals, sourced from a culturally diverse menu, through Meals on Wheels. Additionally, over 910 food hampers of fresh fruit and vegetables were delivered in collaboration with Yonge Street Mission. The emergence from COVID-19 was welcomed by staff who are committed to providing programs that keep seniors active and connected to each other and the local community.

The MIRA | Dixon Hall Centre in early 2023 was finally able to come into its own. This Centre is a unique partnership with McMaster University, purposed to assist Dixon Hall to address ongoing issues for older adults such as isolation and mental health, physical mobility and accessibility, housing and food security, barriers to transportation, approaches to care-giving, and digital connectivity. The Centre’s academic and community service collaboration will result in seniors living better, healthier lives.

67,000 meals on wheels delivered to isolated Seniors!

Strides for Health has Seniors MOVING!

In early 2023, 23 older adults gathered at Regent Park Community Centre for an innovative Nordic Pole Walking program. Over the course of 16 weekly sessions, the group began the morning with stretches and mobility exercises followed by a 30-minute guided group walk on an indoor track using poles. Each week, the group finished off their exercise with an engaging workshop facilitated by a McMaster University researcher. Workshops covered a wide range of topics that enhanced participants’ knowledge of healthy aging designed to engage them in developing a healthier lifestyle. Every workshop featured healthy snacks prepared by a Dixon Hall Peer Worker, and regular presentations and discussions with a Food Access Worker. Clients enjoyed socializing and joining in enthusiastic discussions of dietary and fitness goals, as well as having the opportunity for highly stimulating conversations among participants, staff and researchers about new knowledge in aging research.

Children and Youth

Towards the end of the pandemic, our Growing Up Healthy Downtown program, our sports, camps and weekly drop-ins, were active from April, 2022. Dixon Hall is extremely fortunate to have the Bill Graham Youth Centre, situated in Regent Park, serving residents in that and other nearby neighbourhoods.

The department’s major program BLOCK (Building Leadership Out of Community Kids) is a multi-year project, funded by the Government of Canada, now fully underway. With a focus on Black and racialized youth in Regent Park who have been historically underserved in an area of increased risk of crime, BLOCK reflects Dixon Hall’s commitment to support families as key partners in the revitalization of Regent Park. BLOCK proactively connects case managers to teachers and parents, and to other service providers in the community as part of its wraparound approach. Dixon Hall continues to explore community engagement that will expand its outreach, ideally in partnership with government agencies and private benefactors who share Dixon Hall’s vision that every child should have opportunities to grow, flourish, and achieve maximum potential.

Over 500 underserved children and their families have benefited!

Children and Youth celebrate Black History Month

In February 2023, Dixon Hall, as part of the annual celebration of Black History Month, delivered a series of cultural and recreational experiences to Black and racialized youth in the Regent Park community that messaged diversity, equity and inclusion. A month-long awareness and education campaign culminated on February 22nd at the Regent Park Community Centre, where Dixon Hall hosted an evening of musical entertainment that reflected the richness of Black cultural history and tradition. Performers ranged in age from 4 years to adult, with plenty of opportunity for all in attendance to join in. The evening’s special guest was the Honourable Marci Ien, Canada’s Minister for Women and Gender Equity and Youth, who spoke about her personal journey as part of Toronto’s Black community and what she believes it means to be Black in Canada. Her wonderful personal success as a role model for Black youth reflects the ideals that Dixon Hall’s Children and Youth Services programs aspire to.

Employment Services

Employment Services provides a broad spectrum of engagement for job seekers in Downtown East Toronto, with generous financial support principally from Employment Ontario. Sustaining its mandate and level of service was not easy during COVID-19, but thanks to Dixon Hall’s dedicated staff, free online information services, workshops and webinars continued, as did virtual one-on-one client appointments.

The focus has always been on direct personalized skills development and job matching for those seeking employment and for businesses wishing to attract qualified employees. By September 2022, our Youth Incubator, Wrap Around/Building Resilience, and Better Food Work programs resumed in person, with support from the Labour Education Centre, George Brown College, Fred Victor, and the City of Toronto. Dixon Hall continues to respond and adapt to market conditions, update access to job searches and strategies for the job application process, while recognizing current and future demand for specific employee competencies, all purposed towards gaining meaningful employment.

Nearly 2,000 job seekers helped through counselling and training!

Lliam’s Journey to Re-employment

As a client of Dixon Hall, Lliam O’Neill found the path to return to work as a client of Dixon Hall’s Employment Services, “Contacting Dixon Hall’s Employment Services online was really easy, and staff were so helpful and informative from enrolment to instruction of the courses.” Following an assessment, it was decided that O’Neill should take the ‘basic computer skills’ and ‘food handling certificate’ courses offered as part of Dixon Hall’s Literary & Basic Skills program. Fast forward to the outcome: Lliam has graduated to full-time enrolment in George Brown College’s Business Human Resources’ 2-year Diploma program with full OSAP funding! He believes that this further education will equip him for a meaningful role in facilitating integration of the disabled into the job sector. O’Neill is full of praise for Dixon Hall’s employment services,” These courses helped me to see where I am, how I’m positioned in the job world, and my experience with Dixon has restored and built my confidence to return to education and to employment that will meet my goals.”

Settlement Services

Dixon Hall’s Settlement Services helped over 350 newcomers adjust to life in Canada through an enhanced multi-service approach. Staff connected recent arrivals to social and professional networks, as well as providing resources they need to live and work in Toronto. Services continue to be offered in English, Mandarin, Urdu, Hindi, Saraiki, and Bengali, and translation and interpretation services are available.

A warm welcome, personal counselling and guidance assist clients in making informed decisions about life in Canada, as part of Dixon Hall’s comprehensive service model. Help is provided for completion and filing of Immigration forms, transition to Permanent Residency, and ultimately with the Canadian Citizenship Test, culminating in clients formally adopting Canada as their new home.

357 newcomers and their families welcomed and assisted!

Dixon Hall helps Tahmin’s Family’s Dreams Come True

Tahmin and her family came to Canada after fleeing Bangladesh in 2018. They had no personal knowledge of their destination, only a belief that a safer, better life was in store. When Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board declared the family Protected Persons, the family felt renewed optimism about choosing Canada following a difficult and uncertain first few months. The next important step was applying to become Permanent Residents, but Tahmin couldn’t afford a lawyer to guide her family through the process. An ad in the local Bengali Newspaper led the newcomers to Dixon Hall and its Settlement Services. A staff member helped each family member complete necessary Immigration documents, and applications were made for housing, work permits, and Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Tahmin’s daughter was enrolled in school and Tahmin attend LINC classes to improve her English. Tahmin’s husband, suffering from a physical disability, was eventually approved for ODSP financial support. All three family members were recently granted Permanent Residency status and are looking forward to Citizenship, as Tahmin’s dreams for her family continue to come true.

Dixon Hall Music School

Dixon Hall’s Music School continues to flourish. In September 2022, the School returned to teaching in the Ada Slaight Studios of the Bill Graham Youth Centre, and programs quickly filled to near capacity. By October, 23 teachers were covering more than 35 classes per week, offering 22 subjects in individual and ensemble settings. Over the past seven months, Dixon Hall’s Music School introduced Music Therapy as well as Adapted Music lessons in keeping with its inclusion of youth who have a need for a different approach to learning, an initiative that gained instant popularity.

Music School students come from mainly low-income families who reside in the Regent Park, Moss Park, and St. Lawrence neighbourhoods. The cost of lessons is based on ability to pay. Musical talent and ability are not factors in the application process. In this way, local children and youth have access to music and the Arts, an opportunity that otherwise may not be available. Fees account for only 7% of the cost to operate the Music School, with the balance coming from private donations by individual and corporate benefactors of the Arts and Arts education. Dixon Hall’s fundraiser ‘Music ‘n Mingle’ last November was a tremendous vote of confidence. Everyone involved with the Music School continues to be extremely grateful for hugely generous and loyal community support.

Over 300 students weekly have learned in 35 different classes!

New Dimension of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Introduced in 2022, Adapted Music Lessons and Music Therapy programs have enjoyed a hugely positive reception. Dixon Hall saw a need to include neurodivergent youth diagnosed with learning disabilities and developmental delays in its Music School outreach. Adaptive Music Lessons enable students to learn Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Violin, or Recorder at their own pace. Music Therapy students explore music making, singing, listening, improvisation, songwriting, and movement to meet goals such as improving communication and motor skills; developing coping skills to handle complex emotions (anxiety); and increasing social interactions and self-expression. After nearly a year, these programs are now firmly part of the Music School’s curriculum.

Volunteer Services

Early in 2022, volunteering to help Dixon Hall deliver its programs and services was a challenge, due to distancing dictated by the pandemic, yet a core of over 300 volunteers rose to the occasion, especially for Seniors’ Services and Meals on Wheels. So many volunteers are truly unsung heroes who consistently and selflessly contributed by helping clients with their most urgent needs. And, as awareness about the value of corporate volunteering continues to grow, Dixon Hall had invaluable assistance from the corporate sector in delivering many of our programs and services. In 2023, Dixon Hall welcomed a trend towards increased corporate volunteering requests and participation, a win for everyone involved.

OVER 9,000 HOURS of caring and engagement!

Sarah’s 257 Hours

Newcomer to Canada Sarah didn’t waste any time adopting her new country and local community by asking in 2019 to volunteer at Dixon Hall. She recognized that being a volunteer is a great way to learn about Canada and get to know and network with Canadians, while making a valuable personal contribution and a difference. She has assisted with Meals on Wheels, Telephone Reassurance, and volunteered for special events. In 2023, Sarah became a Permanent Resident and is now employed with the City of Toronto. As with many volunteers, Sarah remains loyal to Dixon Hall’s mission and vision, ready to volunteer when needed. She is a shining example of our cohort of committed volunteers who give of their time because they recognize the immense value of what Dixon Hall does.

Financial Summary

Revenue $28,082,925

Municipal: 72%
Provincial: 12%
Federal: 4%
Donors: 4%
United Way: 3%
User Fees: 4%
Other: 1%

Expenses $27,329,539

Housing: 73%
Seniors: 13%
Neighbourhood: 8%
Employment: 4%
Community Development: 1%
Other: 1%

Giving

Thanks to the loyalty of so many individual donors, corporations and foundations, and our important, enduring partnerships with government, the United Way of Greater Toronto, and the Trillium Foundation, Dixon Hall maintained its operations and community programs and services in the waning months of the pandemic. The Financial Summary above demonstrates how donors invested in Dixon Hall, and how Dixon Hall used those funds to support a broad spectrum of services, residents and needs.

Appeals for financial support in the first seven months of the fiscal year were online, but by November, Dixon Hall returned to traditional fundraising events. ‘Music ‘n Mingle’ successfully showcased the Music School’s wonderfully talented students and celebrated the huge impact that the School has in Regent Park and surrounding neighbourhoods.

We gratefully acknowledge our Government Funders

Employment and Social Development Canada
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Public Health Agency
Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Infrastructure Canada

Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility
Ontario Health
Ministry of Infrastructure
Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

Children’s Services
Community Services partnership (CSP)
Housing Secretariat
Shelter, Support & Housing Administration / Housing Support Services
Toronto Employment and Social Services
Environment and Energy
Social Development, Finance & Administration

A heartfelt Thank You to our Donors

100,000+
The Azrieli Foundation
The Slaight Family Foundation
Sprott Inc.
25,000 to 99,000+
Minto Foundation Inc.
Weston Family Foundation
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Slaight
CIBC
The Minstrel Foundation For Music And Arts Advancement
RBC Foundation
Estate Of Donald Bruce Adams
Langar Foundation
The Silver Hotel Group, Ruparell Foundation
10,000 to 24,999
Suzanne Labarge
Catherine and Maxwell Meighen Foundation
Marie Day Laufer
Tippet Foundation
Dave Mun
1832 Asset Management L.P.
Anonymous
Michael I.M. MacMillan
Mark Ross
Judith Bussey
Nancy L. MacKellar
IA Financial
The Hope Charitable Foundation
Gestion Maurice et Donna Assh Inc.
Harriet Powelson
The KPMG Foundation
Ernst & Young LLP
Dr. Robert Nam, MD, FRCSC
The Ben and Hilda Katz Foundation
Nemar Limited

5,000 to 9,999
Toronto Star Fresh Air Fund
George & Del Milbrandt
Dawn Tattle Family Foundation
The Daniels Corporation
Jill James
Derek Williamson
J.P. Bickell Foundation
Greater Toronto Apartment Association (Charitable Foundation)
Shirley Woo
Broccolini Real Estate Group Inc.
Estate Of Marianna Korman
Joyce Booth
The Harry E. Foster Charitable Foundation
Triovest Realty Advisors Inc.
RBC Global Asset Management
Wilmot & Judith Matthews
1,000 to 4,999
Primerica Life Insurance Company Of Canada
Vivien Drau
Jordana Greenberg
Sage Foundation
Rosedale United Church
Ann Dunlop
Gordon Currie
David Wilson
Bob Cronin
Yasmine El-Gebali
APEX Public Relations
Susan Bartlett
Matt Broadbent
Logos Baptist Church
Creative Planning Financial Group
Canada Life/Great West Life Assurance Company (MOW)

Anthony & Patricia Minard
Toronto Region Board of Trade
Carmen Clayton
Scotiabank
Jonathan Doda
Jenna Bushnell
Kippo Management Limited
Turco Persian Rug Company Inc.
Daren Cooney
Joe & Jeanine Essaye
Mary McDougall Maude
Barbara Ouzunoff
Adobe Inc.
The Henry White Kinnear Foundation
Idaho Productions Inc.
Gillian Brown
Susan Parks
Donna Meyers
Dee Lewis
N. James Swan Memorial Scholarship Fund
Judith Malkin
Ross McGregor
Tazmoon Ratanshi
Toronto Community Housing Corporation, Tenant and Community Services Unit
Derek Amery
Dr. Debra Pepler
Gilles and Julia Ouellette
Scott Bell
Joan McCalla Fund
Integroy Construction Inc.
David Reycraft
Alison Booth
Dan Yungblut
Liam Elliott
Thomas Dicker
Hugh Garner Housing Co-Operative Inc.
Michael H. Williams
Elspeth Heyworth

Bursary Fund at Toronto Foundation
Canada Border Services Agency
Ian Worling
John Macleod
Union Realty Brokerage Inc.
Nancy Smith
James Beninger
Susanne Gossage
Mina Mawani
Leona Lowe
Don DeBoer
David S. Wilson Professional Corporation
Patterson and Patricia Hume Foundation
Devon & Lang
CHUM Charitable Foundation
Ian Robinson
Burgundy Legacy Foundation
Robert Lehman
Derek Walker
Charles Kennedy
Jackman Foundation
Murray Fisher
Don Goddard
Blake Murray
Cyril Dimitris
Scott Armstrong
AlayaCare
Anne Davies
Mitchell Stuart Cohen
Marco Petta
Brian Bimm & Margaret Lynch
Section Architects Ltd.
Carrie Lee
Genevieve Eccleston
Stringer LLP Management Lawyers
Ji-Won Park
The Hermant Family Foundation
Patrick Moran
Gilbert’s LLP
Mrs. Rivette Herzig

Jeffrey Daley
Philip Bolton
Wayne Fraser
Paul and Kaye Beeston
Doug Ward
Derrick Ross
Heritage Restoration Inc.
500 to 999
Karen Smiley
George Hume
Mrs. Adrian Macdonald
Cosmin & Ramona Munteanu
Macquarie
Maria Fine
Becky Hurwitz
Jonathan Kichler
BMO Private Wealth
Sam Evangelista, Sam
Mercedes Watson
Rieshdah Gabier
Daniel Ryan
Rubina Khan
Kelly Ford
Patricia McNamara
Robert Appleby
Glen Defreitas
Marc Walker
Melissa Wong
Scott Montgomery
Laura Feldman
Robert Brien
Emmanuel Uzonwanne
Patricia Arsenault
Verite Films Inc.
Sara Ehrhardt
Rosie Orlando
Jermaine Delisser
Elise Andrey
Christine Chow
Nadia Sayeh
Virk, Misha
Meng Yi Dai
Mr. & Mrs. Timothy & Frances Price
Rukshana Nanji
David Howell
Heather McAllister

Karla Wallace
Michael Lee
William James McLeod
Elizabeth Mason
Don Simpson
Paul Ferguson
Happy Worker Inc.
Michael Chow
Blair Marrett
Rev. Marili Moore
Hunter Thompson
Ming Yue Xu
Marsh Birchard
Antonio A. Campea
David Amos
Ourboro
Ali Barry
The Murtaugh Fund
Jason Gibbs
Katelyn Taylor
Google Canada
Susan Orlando
RBC
Margaret Wente
Yong Zhao
Heather Peterson
Calvin Maclean
Colin & Ann Lambert
Sprucegrove Investment Management Ltd.
Robert Tedford
Richard McRae
Perfect Homes Inc.
Vicky & Erik Koudstaal
ERA Architects
Julie Markham
Janette M. MacDonald
Michael Mandel
Margaret MacMillan
Michael Kaluzny
RX Music
Gord Meyer
R. Brian Cartwright
Ann McCain Evans
Lisa Balfour Bowen
Woodsworth Housing Co-operative Inc.
Kristen & Ben Kearon

The Rooming House Project

After partnering in 2018 with other stakeholders to revitalize several Toronto Community Housing rooming houses in Cabbagetown, Dixon Hall in 2021 launched its own ambitious project to renovate several large vacant rooming houses on Parliament Street. The Rooming House Project fit Dixon Hall’s strategy of wraparound support of residents experiencing housing and food insecurity, social isolation, employment and mental health issues. This past year, approximately 200 residents were supported every day in many ways: peer support staff served clients nutritious meals at drop-in centres, engaged in harm reduction strategies, and developed social programs to promote inclusion in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood.

With occupancy by Dixon Hall clients of the renovated Parliament Street rooming houses anticipated in 2023, The Rooming House Project will showcase how Toronto can generate rooming house conversions meant to increase supportive housing capacity for city residents who otherwise would face challenges in overcoming personal housing insecurity.

Bond Place Hotel Conversion

Located at 65 Dundas Street East, the 18-storey building was acquired by the City of Toronto to ultimately convert 280 hotel rooms into supportive and deeply affordable housing units. This is only the second project of its kind in Canada. Prior to renovation, the City enlisted Dixon Hall to operate the Bond Hotel as a homeless shelter. Dixon Hall in 2023 continues to assist residents during construction, including their temporary relocation, after having collaborated with City staff in the planning and design of the new supportive housing spaces. Being an integral part of this innovative project combines Dixon Hall’s experience and expertise with its commitment to move shelter beds into permanent supportive housing options. Upon completion, the City will continue to involve Dixon Hall in providing holistic services to all Bond Place Hotel tenants.

Towards the Future

Revitalizing 58 Sumach Street

For almost a century, Dixon Hall has been headquartered at an unassuming single storey building located at 58 Sumach Street. With our visionary reimagining of 58 Sumach scheduled for completion in the fall of 2023, we will reach yet another important milestone in our journey to better serve residents of Downtown East Toronto. This is an impactful revitalization, physically redefining a space that will recast Dixon Hall’s values of respect, diversity, integrity, care and compassion, and accountability, while respecting our history of community building and dedicated service.

Redesigned interiors will support an open and inclusive community hub that welcomes people in need of support for housing, food security, seniors and settlement services, and employment assistance. Above all, 58 Sumach will be a space where people come first, served more efficiently and effectively by staff and volunteers, thanks to a collaborative facility with office and common area solutions that will increase capacity and productivity. Going forward, 58 Sumach Street as a core location will empower Dixon Hall to deliver enhanced community programming on site for at least 3,000 residents annually, plus enable improved outreach to so many more who are vulnerable and in need.

Dixon Hall’s renewal of 58 Sumach Street would not be possible without major, lasting capital investments by key partners and benefactors in the project, funders who continue to believe in and support our mission, vision, and values. Dixon Hall expresses our deepest gratitude for the faith that you continue to have in us. Thank you for your expression of confidence where it matters most, as we continue to create lasting solutions to end poverty, social injustices, and isolation in Toronto, creating a city where everyone thrives.