Due to the need to practice social distancing during these uncertain times, many seniors will undoubtedly face challenges with picking up essentials like medications, groceries and other items. These challenges are exacerbated by the new reality of having to wait in line for hours at some stores, which adversely affects the most vulnerable seniors. 

The team at UHN OpenLab, which is part of Toronto General Hospital, has been researching and designing solutions to support seniors to live independently in Toronto's vertical communities.

The team has organized a group of several hundred volunteers to provide assistance with simple pickups for seniors in public housing. The initial focus is on assisting tenants in the 83 seniors-designated buildings of Toronto Community Housing, totalling 14,000 units.

Close to 300 individuals have stepped forward to offer assistance to the thousands of seniors living in Toronto Community Housing buildings across the city. Together, we will operate the Friendly Neighbour Hotline, a single phone number seniors needing assistance can call, connected to a network of volunteers throughout the city who can help with picking up essentials during this difficult time.

The UHN OpenLab team at Toronto General Hospital has been working around the clock to establish the processes and procedures of the operation, and consulting with officials at Toronto Community Housing Corporation, the City of Toronto, and seniors themselves to ensure that we have a coordinated, effective and safe response.

We are currently accepting donations to support costs incurred through the volunteer program.
When you donate to this page, you are helping seniors in need during these extraordinatry circumstances.

Please make a gift today!