How One Woman’s Grassroots Initiative Supports Toronto’s Unhoused

January 23, 2025
Rebecca Freeman is the founder and creator of Blessing Bags, a grassroots initiative that provides essential care packages to individuals experiencing homelessness in Toronto. Operating out of her home and self-funding the initiative, she strives to bring comfort and dignity to those who have limited access to shelter or resources. Driven by a deep sense of compassion, Rebecca has been running Blessing Bags for 4 years and is passionate about inspiring others to take small acts of kindness in their own communities. In addition to her work with Blessing Bags, she works as a manager at a long-term care home, where she is dedicated to improving quality of life for seniors. Rebecca is also an advocate for social causes related to homelessness and community welfare.
This story took place in Canada

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For the past 4 years, I’ve been handing out Blessing Bags, care packages filled with essential items such as hygiene products, snacks, gloves, scarves, socks and gift cards to people experiencing homelessness in Toronto. This project, entirely self-funded and operating out of my home, began from a desire to give back and help those in need.

Through this initiative, the idea for Compassion Pathways was born. While still in its early stages, my goal is to grow this grassroots effort into something larger creating not only care packages but also a broader community of support and understanding. We’ve recently begun exploring ways to expand, including volunteering and fundraising efforts that will allow us to continue supporting marginalized individuals on a larger scale.

My own experience with homelessness makes this work deeply personal. Both my family members and I have faced housing instability, which fuels my commitment to taking meaningful action. Living in Toronto, where resources can be stretched thin, I felt compelled to offer support, knowing firsthand the uncertainty and challenges faced by those without a stable home.

As a Director in the long-term care sector, I work daily to improve the lives of seniors and am passionate about providing quality care to vulnerable populations. The work I do in my professional life complements my personal initiative, as I understand the importance of empathy, connection, and human dignity in all stages of life. My career in healthcare has further fueled my drive to help others, especially those who are underserved or marginalized.

While the project started as a personal mission, I believe it’s a reminder that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their resources. You don’t need a large organization or funding to help others; all it takes is the willingness to take action and the belief that small acts of generosity can add up to something big.

I hope that by sharing my story, others will be encouraged to take similar steps in their own neighborhoods. The project reflects my belief that even the smallest gestures can change someone’s day and remind them they are not invisible. I’ve witnessed how the simple act of receiving a care package can bring comfort, ease stress, and offer hope during a difficult time. It’s not just about the items in the bag, it’s about seeing people, hearing their stories, and offering a moment of compassion.

Through this work, I’ve learned that the issue of homelessness is complex, and systemic change is needed. But I also know that individual action matters. We all have a role to play, whether that’s by supporting someone directly or simply acknowledging them with understanding. As I continue this journey with Compassion Pathways, my hope is that others will be inspired to join in and create a ripple effect of care, reminding everyone of the power of individual effort and the impact one person’s actions can have on their community.

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