This year, Toronto faced a quintessential Canadian winter marked by freezing temperatures and major snowstorms. For the city’s unhoused population, this harsh season presented unimaginable challenges, making the search for a warm place to shelter both during the day and overnight a daily struggle.

One such individual, "Dale," found solace and support at the 105 Gibson Centre during this difficult time. Dale first reached out for assistance through the Centre’s food bank. As staff got to know him, they learned about his personal struggles—a former Uber driver, Dale had depleted his savings by returning to his home country to visit his parents. Upon his return, the transmission on his vehicle broke down, leaving him without the funds needed for repairs. Without an income, he was evicted and left with no other option than to live out of his car, which remained parked at the garage where mechanics had assessed the repair costs.

In the bitter cold, Dale walked 2–3 kilometers each morning to seek shelter at the 105 Gibson Centre during its operating hours. When the Centre was closed, he made the same long trek back to his car, where he spent his nights. The freezing temperatures took their toll—Dale’s feet were often wet, swollen, and cold. Seeing his plight, the staff stepped in to help. At the Centre’s Thrift Store, they found him a pair of warm boots and other essential items. One staff member even gifted him a Presto card for public transportation—an individual act of kindness not tied to any official program offered by the Centre.