Fueling young minds at 20 New Heights Court
Every Monday and Wednesday morning, the community room at 20 New Heights comes alive with the smell of fresh breakfast and the sound of neighbours gathering before the day begins.
Jozanne Charles serves up fresh breakfast for kids
For tenant volunteer and Food Service Coordinator Jozanne Charles, the program addresses a challenge many families face. “Some children go to school without breakfast,” she said. "You can't learn on an empty stomach. We want children, ages two to 24 years old, to have a good meal so they can focus, learn, and have a successful day."
The program serves children and youth from kindergarten to post-secondary age. It provides healthy meals before school and during school breaks. Since launching in February, dozens of tenants have participated each week. Parents, youth, and volunteers work together to make the program a success.
But the impact goes beyond food.
Tenants gather around tables to share meals, children build friendships, and families spend time together in a safe and welcoming environment. Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) staff also use these opportunities to connect and engage with them.
During March Break, participants enjoyed movies, educational activities, homework support, and arts and crafts.
For Jozanne, the program shows the power of community. "When people work together, we can accomplish so much more," she said. "This program shows what is possible when neighbours support one another."
The program has also created opportunities for tenants to take on leadership roles. Volunteers help prepare meals, welcome participants, and support activities. This helps create a strong sense of ownership and pride.
The program's success is made possible through the dedication of tenant volunteers, and the support of TCHC’s Violence Reduction Program and Tenant Engagement teams. The program couldn’t happen without the partnership of the Black Action Defense Committee, as they lead the program's day-to-day operations.
As another school year ends, the program is leaving a lasting impact—one meal, one conversation and one act of neighbourly support at a time. At 20 New Heights Court, breakfast is doing more than filling plates. It's helping build a stronger, safer, and more connected community for the future.
