by Turo
posted on December 1, 2023
Local food banks and charitable organizations in Ontario are facing donation shortages, struggling to meet the unprecedented demand for assistance. In response to these difficult circumstances, the Drive Change program is here to empower and encourage our community to rally behind these local charities who are working tirelessly to aid Ontarians during these challenging times.
This year, Turo is partnering with the Red Door Shelter, a non-profit registered charity serving the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Since 1982, the Red Door Family Shelter has been a beacon of hope, providing emergency shelter and support for women and children affected by domestic abuse, families facing a housing crisis, and refugee claimants with nowhere else to turn. Every year, the Red Door helps over 300 families affected by abuse and homelessness to heal and rebuild their lives.
Guests who book one of the participating vehicles in Toronto (or GTA) between December 1st, 2023 and January 15, 2024 have the option to make an in-kind donation of non-perishable food items that will be distributed to the Red Door Shelter in Toronto, ON.
According to Public Health Ontario, food insecurity touches the lives of 1 in 5 children and 19% of households across the province. This crisis has propelled food bank usage in Canada to levels never seen before. By participating, you’re directly contributing to alleviate these challenges.
How can you help?
Being a force for good has never been easier! This simple act of kindness can have a profound impact. Your donations can help bring comfort, joy, and relief to those facing hardship.
1. Book a trip with a participating host
Check out the featured hosts below and book your trip. There are over 150 vehicles enrolled in the program — plenty of opportunities to support the cause!
2. Learn more about the program
At the start of the trip you’ll find a pamphlet with comprehensive information about this initiative. Only non-perishable food items are being accepted at this time (canned soup and fruits, packaged foods, shelf-stable milk, pantry staples such as oil, sugar, and spices, etc).
3. Make a difference
If you choose to make a donation, you can do so at the end of your trip. You’ll find a reusable bag in your vehicle’s trunk: unfold the bag, place your food item(s) inside and you’re good to go! Turo will take care of delivering them to the shelter.
Every contribution matters, no matter how big or small!
Meet the hosts driving change
Tamara L.
Toronto
Zachary C.
Mississauga
Hear what hosts are saying
“Given the feeling of uncertainty in and around people’s mind these days and the Holliday season just around the corner I thought if I can bring a smile to even one person’s face I would do it without any hesitation“
“The Drive Change program’s mission to aid the less fortunate during the holidays deeply resonated with my commitment to social responsibility and giving back. Joining this program felt like a natural extension of my values, aligning perfectly with my dedication to making a positive impact in people’s lives during this special season. I see this initiative as a remarkable opportunity to leverage our collective efforts for a noble cause. It’s a heartwarming initiative that not only aims to assist those in need but also brings together hosts and guests to create a season of giving and kindness, transforming holiday travels into meaningful acts of support and compassion.“
“I eagerly joined Turo’s Drive Change initiative because of my deep-seated belief in the power of collective action to address hunger. As a Turo host, I see firsthand the impact we can have on individuals and communities. By participating in Drive Change, I aim to leverage the platform’s reach to make a tangible difference in the fight against food insecurity. It’s about using our shared resources and passion for positive change to drive meaningful impact and contribute to a world where no one goes hungry.”
“I want to be a part of the Drive Change program to help anyone in need.”
“The Drive Change program sounds like a great initiative to help those in need and connect with the Turo community.“
“Our family is blessed to be able to host on Turo and being able to support others in need through the Turo Drive Change program is something that will strengthen our community and hopefully brighten someone’s day.“
“Giving back to the community has always been a core value for me. The opportunity to use the Turo platform not just for car sharing but also as a means to make a positive impact aligns perfectly with my belief in social responsibility. It’s more than just hosting; it’s about contributing to a cause that addresses essential needs within our community. Especially during difficult times as the one many are currently experiencing. The food drive, in particular, resonates with me because it addresses a fundamental need that many individuals face daily. Knowing that my involvement can help alleviate hunger and contribute to the well-being of others is incredibly rewarding. (…) Participating in the Drive Change Program, especially in a food drive, is a fulfilling endeavour for me. It allows me to embody the values of social responsibility, make a direct and positive impact on the community, experience the strength of collective effort, and align with a platform that shares my commitment to making a difference beyond the world of car sharing.”
Food insecurity hit record levels in 2023 with 1/3 food bank users being children. I wanted join the Drive Change program as I know this is growing issue in not only Ontario, but all across Canada.
Let’s drive towards a brighter future for Ontario, one trip and one donation at a time!
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