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As the largest city in Canada, Toronto is truly a global city. It is an urban center with a diverse economy and population. Visitors enjoy visiting the local parks, farmer’s markets and festivals, as well as exploring Toronto’s arts and cultural attractions. While the city prides itself in a strong economy, not all residents are enjoying prosperity. Your group will share the love of Jesus and serve Toronto residents by partnering with local homeless shelters, children’s ministries, food banks and senior centers.
| Date Start | Date End | Price Per | # of Available Spots | |
| 6/12/2011 | 6/17/2011 | $288.00 | 35 | Register |
| 6/19/2011 | 6/24/2011 | $288.00 | 42 | Register |
| 6/26/2011 | 7/1/2011 | $288.00 | 72 | Register |
| 7/3/2011 | 7/8/2011 | $288.00 | 72 | Register |
| 7/10/2011 | 7/15/2011 | $288.00 | 44 | Register |
| 7/17/2011 | 7/22/2011 | $288.00 | 72 | Register |
| 7/24/2011 | 7/29/2011 | $288.00 | 56 | Register |
| 7/31/2011 | 8/5/2011 | $288.00 | 0 | Register |
Demographics
The city of Toronto sits on the north shore of Lake Ontario and is the capital of the province of Ontario. It is home to 2.6 million residents, including a large immigrant population. Nearly all of the world’s culture groups are represented in Toronto and more than 100 languages and dialects are spoken. Over one-third of residents speak a language other than English in their home. Many visitors come to Toronto to experience its world-class theater and performing arts, and to see the CN Tower, currently the world’s tallest free-standing structure at 1,815 feet. Canada’s commercial, financial and industrial success can be linked to the prosperity of Toronto.
But there are those in this city who are struggling. In 2002, 31,985 different people stayed in Toronto’s emergency shelters. Of those, 4,779 were children. Toronto’s estimated homeless population is over 5,000 and growing. Census figures indicated that 8 percent of Toronto’s families had incomes below $10,000. Come to the spectacular city of Toronto to enjoy a unique cultural experience as you minister to those in need.
About the Ministry
Participants serve in a variety of ways during a YouthWorks mission trip. Students may spend all week at one ministry or switch between ministries during the week. Our goal is to partner with local organizations and programs that seek to address the very basic needs of residents. Students may serve at places like: Children’s Programs, Elderly Centers, Soup Kitchens/Homeless Shelters and Thrift Stores. We cannot confirm until all groups arrive exactly what ministries your students will be a part of during the week. We ask that you come with a willing and flexible spirit!
Activities
Evening activities during a YouthWorks week are designed to give participants insight into the lives of local residents and the culture of the area. Below is a list of evening/cultural activities we have done in the past: visit Ashbridge Bay Beach; Go on a scavenger hunt in China Town; take part in a community educational experience; and spend an evening at a local park. These are examples of what your group might partake in during your mission week. These examples are subject to change due to weather or availability. In case of change, suitable substitutes will be provided. We try to arrange for free evening activities, but from time to time, an additional cost may be required for an activity. Please plan to bring an additional $10 per person to cover any extra costs. We will confirm the details closer to your trip.
Ministry Week
Partnering with Local Ministries.
Mileage
Toronto is located 240 miles northeast of Detroit, MI, in the Canadian province of Ontario, directly off Highway 401.
Transportation & Travel
Each group is responsible for transportation to and from the site, and during the mission week. Toronto can only accommodate standard 15 passenger vans or smaller and cannot accommodate trailers. Per the U.S. Department of State travel website, "On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or WHTI-compliant document." To learn more, please visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html. For ease of travel, we ask that each person obtains a passport.
Additional Information
If you would like more information on what there is to do in Toronto and surrounding areas before or after your trip, call Toronto Tourism at 1.800.499.2514, or check out this Web site: www.torontotourism.com.
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