Temple Sinai Congregation
210 Wilson Avenue
Toronto, Ontario MBM 3B1
416-487-4161
e-mail Temple Sinai Congregation
So many of our large cities have enormous populations of people experiencing homelessness. Temple Sinai, in partnership with Na Me Res (Native Men's Residence, a First Nations/Native Canadian organization that has reached out to literally thousands of Toronto's residents and saved many lives) has committed itself to respond to the plight of people experiencing homelessness in a meaningful way. Their goal is to administer to and to sustain lives of those people who live on Toronto's streets in all seasons from the frigid winters to the hot summers - and also to educate their congregants to be aware of their responsibilities to heal the world, one person at a time. In this way the program seeks both to encourage congregants to be more knowledgeable, sensitive and articulate in their understanding of the tragedy and complexity of the housing crisis in Toronto and to nurture the relationship and understanding between the Jewish and the First Nations (Native Canadian) communities in Toronto.
Temple Sinai congregants support and staff a Street Help Van from 6:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. one night a week. The program attempts to teach life skills, where possible, restore dignity and offer a hand of friendship and caring to the many people who live without shelter or permanent accommodation. This is accomplished under the guidance of an experienced counselor/driver. Each volunteer is educated by his/her experience, becoming more aware of the tragedy and complexity of the homeless situation in Toronto and forging personal relationships with the First Nations/Native Canadian Community.Reciprocally, the Na Me Res group has reached out to the Jewish community as well. Last year when one of the cemeteries in Toronto was desecrated, this organization came forward to assist in the repair and clean up. As a result of their collaboration, the two communities are increasing trust and respect for one another.
In Deuteromony 21:1-9 we are commanded to be accountable and be responsible for that which we may not have caused. This is what Temple Sinai is doing. This is a powerful social action undertaking on many levels.
