But fundraising efforts continue.
MNLC Team
On Sunday, July 20, the community came together for a lively and heartwarming yard sale fundraiser in support of Aurora House, raising $2,500 for the transitional housing program dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking and gender-based violence.
Hosted in east Toronto at the Toronto United Mennonite Church (TUMC) in partnership with MNLC, the event brought together neighbours, families, and local businesses in a shared effort to uplift a critical community resource. Aurora House provides safe housing, trauma-informed care, and holistic support for women, pregnant individuals, and children escaping violence and exploitation. For many of its residents, Aurora House offers not only refuge, but also a pathway to healing, education, and independence.
The fundraiser featured an impressive selection of donated items from community members, ranging from household goods and books to toys and clothing. Live music from the Steinwall Band kept spirits high, and volunteers from MNLC and Toronto Mennonite New Life Church served up delicious Latin American cuisine. TUMC members also contributed a charming bake sale which was a hit with sweet-toothed shoppers. While there were no frills or flashy attractions, the day was filled with great deals and genuine community connection.
Local businesses, including Book City Beaches, ESPRO Coffee Bar, and Beaches Pizzaville, generously contributed to the success of the event through in-kind donations and promotional support. Their involvement underscores the value of community partnerships in sustaining meaningful social change.
While the $2,500 raised will directly support Aurora House programming, including case management, food and other essentials, and wellness supports, organizers stress that the work is far from over. With a goal of raising $50,000 by the end of 2025, Aurora House is calling on Torontonians to continue showing their support by attending upcoming events, spreading awareness, and donating when possible.
The next major fundraising initiative, Sip & Support: An Evening for Aurora House, takes place on Thursday, August 21 at the CSI Annex Garage (720 Bathurst Street, Toronto). The ticketed event promises an evening of music, refreshments, and powerful storytelling.
Guests will hear firsthand from Cassandra Harvey, a former Aurora House resident and survivor advocate who will share how the program helped her begin a new chapter for herself and her two daughters. Cassandra’s story, marked by strength and resilience, is a testament to the transformative impact of safe, supportive housing.
The team behind Aurora House hopes the community’s generosity continues to grow.
Our recent yard sale fundraiser showed us just how much this city cares,” said Erin Horrocks-Pope, an MNLC team member. “But the need is great, and ongoing. Every dollar raised helps provide a safe haven and a future for women and children overcoming the unimaginable.”
Tickets for Sip & Support are on sale now, with all proceeds going directly to Aurora House. Donations are also welcome at mnlct.org/donate, where community members can designate their contribution to support Aurora House.
For those who missed the yard sale, it’s not too late to get involved. Supporters can attend Sip & Support, share Aurora House’s mission on social media, or connect with MNLC to learn more about how to make a difference.
Together, we can ensure that every survivor has the chance to rebuild, restore, and rise.
