Age is Just a Number

For Yogi Akal, celebrating turning 70 is about going 700km in 70 days to raise $7,000 in support of Haven Toronto. The new septuagenarian is using the occasion of his birthday to give back to the community, and he is inviting the community to join him.

People can participate in Yogi Akal’s Walk for Health, Hope and Haven Toronto by joining the Team to reach the goal of a combined 700 kilometres and/or sponsoring the Team to fund at least 7,000 meals for Haven Toronto.

100% of the funds raised go directly to Haven Toronto, a downtown drop-in centre for elder homeless men. Proceeds will help reduce food insecurity by providing drop-in centre clients with healthy meals; $7,000 raised is the equivalent of about a month of meals for visiting clients.

For Team members, there are 7 ways to help reach 700km, from walk to run, swim to float, and canoe to kayak between now and July 28, 2022. People are encouraged to Sponsor the Team per kilometre, i.e. 10¢ a kilometre = $70. Registration and sponsorship can be made at www.walkforhealthandhope.ca.

Yogi’s relationship with Haven Toronto began many years ago as a volunteer serving with his dog Beta, a trained therapy dog. “Beta loved Haven Toronto and looked forward to his many visits there. Though Beta is gone now, I am continuing his connection with Haven Toronto.”

Haven Toronto reduces barriers to health care, housing and food security for elder men impacted by poverty, homelessness and isolation. The only drop-in centre in Canada dedicated to serving elder homeless men, Haven Toronto is a safe space where clients can form and cultivate friendships, and become part of a community. Haven Toronto serves thousands of elder homeless men annually and has clients from over 60 countries.