Celebrating Black History Month with REST: Honouring Heritage, Empowering Communities

Dear REST Community, 

As we approach the end of Black History Month, we are filled with gratitude and reflection for the remarkable events that have taken place throughout February. It has been a month of profound celebration, recognition, and empowerment, and we are honored to have shared these moments with you. 

Our "Shades of Black" event was a resounding success, bringing together our community in a vibrant celebration of Black cultural heritage. From the captivating array of food, dance, and music to the inspiring stories of Black justice pioneers, we were reminded of the rich tapestry of our collective history. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a memorable and meaningful experience. 

Additionally, the unveiling of our Mississauga Office marked a significant milestone in our journey to expand our reach and impact. With this new space, made possible through collaborative engagement and support from Peel Housing Corporation, we are better equipped to serve the growing needs of our community. We are also grateful for the generous contribution from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), which funded a vehicle for service delivery, further enhancing our capacity to support those in need. 

As we reflect on the achievements of Black History Month, we are reminded of the importance of honoring heritage, celebrating resilience, and empowering communities. While this month may be coming to a close, our commitment to these values remains unwavering. We will continue to work tirelessly to eliminate housing insecurity among BIPOC youth and create a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. 

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

Warm regards, 

Dagma Koyi 

Executive Director/Founder 

REST Centres