This Valentine’s Day, Kingston is launching Warm Hearts Day, a grassroots initiative aimed at helping residents experiencing homelessness.
Organized by Our Livable Solutions (OLS), the event features fundraising concerts and a drag show on Friday night, followed by a pancake breakfast on Saturday morning.
Chrystal Wilson, the Executive Director of OLS, was inspired by a children’s book series, Owl Diaries by Rebecca Elliot, encouraging random acts of kindness.
“I had a couple of people mention that they are not a fan of Valentine’s Day, and they’re glad we are transforming Valentine’s Day into something different,” Wilson recounted in an interview with CFRC. “And just how excited they are to participate in something that’s a positive initiative for our community.”
The initiative has gained significant traction, with community organizations lending their support by distributing care packages to encampments, hosting fundraising events, and writing notes of kindness for unhoused neighbours.