OOTC Volunteer Registration is Now Open

The 20th season of the Beth Sholom/Beth Tzedec Out of the Cold Shelter will operate on Tuesday nights from January 1, 2019 through March 19, 2019. We provide a hot meal, clothing, entertainment, an art program and a mindfulness group for 175 of Toronto’s homeless and needy. We also offer sleeping accommodations for 60 overnight guests, a hot breakfast, bagged lunch and a subway token for everyone each week.

Volunteers can register through November 5. For information or to register for specific dates/duties, click here>> 

The distribution of warm clothing is one of the most essential services we provide to our guests. We greatly appreciate your clothing donations. Please note that we only accept the following items, and they must be in adult sizes and in new or nearly new condition: down coats, ski jackets, parkas, snow pants, sweaters, hoodies, sweatshirts, sweat pants, blue jeans, corduroy pants, winter boots, hiking boots and running shoes. Clothing can be dropped off at Beth Sholom Synagogue, and placed in the bins and boxes located in the entrance of the Synagogue.

Looking for an interesting group mitzvah project?

Are you looking for a group or a corporate volunteer activity that will support the 175 individuals OOTC supports each week? We are excited to announce that we have partnered with The Bargains Group to make an even bigger impact on the local community! The Bargains Group is an award-winning wholesaler with bargain prices, that offers donations to non-profits with every purchase, as well as their signature Kits for a Cause program.

If you plan on donating items to Out of the Cold, please consider calling The Bargains Group, because they'll not only stretch your dollar, to increase your budget, but they'll also provide us with donations! For example: You buy a case of socks to donate—we receive additional donations! Contact Maureen Tanz through the Synagogue office at 416-781-3511 for details.

Additionally, The Bargains Group’s Kits for a Cause program offers groups the opportunity to purchase Winter Warmth Kits or Hygiene Kits for distribution through OOTC. It is a great team-building exercise for companies, and a way to give back to the community. Interested in learning more? Check out Kits for a Cause or contact their team at info@kitsforacause.com or 416-785-5655.

Maureen Tanz 
Chair, Beth Tzedec H̱esed Committee