TTC employees raise $678K for United Way of Greater Toronto
The TTC announced today that its employees have raised an impressive $678,252.43 in support of the United Way of Greater Toronto as a result of their 2023 fundraising campaign.
This remarkable achievement was celebrated at an event held today in Davisville, where TTC Chair Jamaal Myers, TTC CEO Rick Leary, employees, and union representatives came together to showcase their unwavering commitment to the community.
“This outstanding fundraising effort exemplifies the true spirit of our city, where individuals come together to make a difference and uplift the lives of others,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. “I commend the TTC employees for their remarkable achievement and their dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive Toronto.”
Surpassing last year's efforts, the employees raised over $50,000 more than in 2022, demonstrating their determination to make a positive impact. The 2023 employee campaign, spearheaded by the TTC Recreation Council and ATU Local 113, included a series of major events, including Halloween Fest at Bay Lower Station which attracted more than 12,000 Halloween fans.
The TTC employees’ dedication to giving back was also evident through their generous donations, which were made through regular and one-off pay deductions. Thousands of employees stepped forward to contribute, demonstrating the unity and compassion that defines the TTC community.
“I want to thank each and every employee whose generosity will play a crucial role in supporting the United Way's work across all areas of our city,” said TTC CEO Rick Leary. “This remarkable achievement reflects the true character of the TTC team and their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow Torontonians.”
In addition to raising more than $678,000, TTC employees also collected over 10,000 donations of toys and 12,500 cans of soup during the holiday season. The food drive, lovingly referred to as Soup Mountain, saw TTC employees create an astounding 12,500-can pyramid of soup, all of which were donated to the Veterans Association Food Bank.
The toys were collected through the widely popular Stuff-the-Bus events held across the city. These toys were then donated to organizations such as Parkdale Peace Project, SickKids, Abuse Hurts, Community Place Hub, BGC Dovercourt, and Progress Place, spreading joy and happiness to children in need.
The TTC, in collaboration with the Recreation Council, has been collecting money for the United Way for decades. The Recreation Council has been collecting food for the Veterans Association Food Bank for the past fours years, coats, warm winter gear and money since 2013, and toys and monetary donations since 2007. Since then, millions of dollars and thousands of cans, toys and coats have been collected for the community.
The TTC extends its gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the success of these initiatives, both this year and in previous years. Their efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of those in need, spreading joy and hope throughout the holiday season.
Image: TTC Chair Jamaal Myers joined TTC CEO Rick Leary, ATU Local 113 Executive Vice President Angie Clark, and TTC/United Way Campaign Co-Chair Kathy Wyeth to present United Way Greater Toronto with a $678,252.43 donation raised by TTC employees and pensioners.
