Our Roots

Low Income Families Together began in response to Ontario’s review of social assistance and became an active group for low income families in the province.

LIFT, with Ryerson University and the Wellesley Institute, submit report to the U.N.
on human rights in St. James Town. Food insecurity is identified as a significant issue.

Community Café, with funding from Tower Renewal, is launched by residents,
incubated by LIFT. Activities: pay-what-you-can community dinners, nutritional education, certificate program with George Brown.

Feasibility study identifies a community enterprise co-op as the most sustainable and
appropriate model. The café incorporates as the not-for-profit resident-majority St. James Town Community Co-operative (2015).

The first annual Emergency Food Forum is held in response to global pandemic (COVID-19)

St. James Town Coop uses Red Cross Emergency funding to distribute food hampers: volunteer-packed dry goods, produce, and ingredients like coconut milk and turmeric that are culturally appropriate for residents in need

St. James Town Coop uses Red Cross Emergency funding to distribute food hampers: volunteer-packed dry goods, produce, and ingredients like coconut milk and turmeric that are culturally appropriate for residents in need