As the city asks the federal government for more funding for its shelter system, the black-led religious groups that have gathered countless refugees from Toronto's streets are also under pressure, with many still at risk of the cold. And they live on the sidewalks. Since the summer, dozens of recent immigrants to Canada have taken up residence at Pilgrim Feast Tabernacles. Currently, 68 refugees and many others live in front of the shops on Albion Road where the church is located.

Church official Martin Grillmore says they spend roughly $20,000 a week out of pocket to provide refugees with three meals a day and a safe place to sleep. He added, we are now $300,000 in debt and due to lack of funds, we are about to close the church next Thursday. When we close the church, they will have nowhere to go. Earlier this year, the city council set aside nearly $1 million to reimburse churches. But amid a clash with Ottawa, Mayor Olivia Chow warned the municipality that it has no more money to give.

news source