WOMEN OF FAITH – 

BUILDING HOMES, 

HOPE AND RELATIONSHIPS

NEWS REPORT

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Submitted by: Canadian Centre for Diversity

On Thursday, October 16, 30 women of different faiths, ages, cultures and backgrounds gathered at the first “Women of Faith Build”, a collaboration between the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Habitat for Humanity Toronto.

Organized by Judy Csillag, Director of Outreach and Partnerships, the goals of the “Women of Faith Build” were to bring a diverse group of women together to share a meaningful intercultural experience and to increase awareness of the need for affordable housing.

This initiative provided an opportunity for women to connect with other women who may have otherwise not have met. A week prior to the build, they participated in a community-building workshop facilitated by Carla Wittes, VP, Programs, and Jenni Stoff, National Programs Manager.

Working together at the Main and Kingston Road construction site provided an opportunity to deepen relationships while building decent, affordable homes and a brighter future for families in need. The women hauled drywall, hung vapour barriers and caulked seams.

"We have to find a way to come together," said Rev. Cathy Gibbs, Chaplain at Bishop Strachan School and one of the co-chairs of the initiative.

"At times like these, we sometimes think of ourselves and how it all affects us," said co-chair Tanya Khan. "But we need to remember that there are others with greater need. "

Four 17-year-old students accompanied the third co-chair, Lori Cohen of Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto. “This project has shown all of us how we must reflect on the fragility of life,” she said.

The women crossed all boundaries of faith and culture, putting aside biases in order to break down barriers that may exist between their communities and work together for a cause that touched all of them. “It makes me optimistic that if there is a will, we can move towards peace,” said Gurwinder Gill, Director, Diversity Services for William Osler Health Centre.

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL OF THE PICTURES ON PICASA;  

Enjoy a first hand account by: Raheel Raza - go to her Column

For more information please visit: www.torontohabitat.ca.

To organize a community build through Habitat for Humanity, contact: Barbara Wilson, Family Outreach Coordinator. bwilson@torontohabitat.on.ca <mailto:bwilson@torontohabitat.on.ca>

Judy Csillag begins the day 

with a smudge ceremony

Helping walls to grow

Works shirts that carry the 

theme of the day.

Measure, cut, position: 

steps to building a home

A salute to US!

Lunch, Laughs and Friendship.

Building homes, and friendships

Short breaks -with sharing.