To strengthen interfaith cooperation and community care, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto participated in the Sunday Dinners community meal program on January 4. Working alongside the 6th Meadowvale Scout Group (also known as Buddha’s Light Toronto Scout Group), the temple prepared and delivered 50 vegetarian meal boxes for individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship. The meal distribution took place at Meadowvale Community Church.

The outreach initiative was led by Wilson Yau, Localization Team Leader of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, together with Scout leaders and representatives from the 6th Meadowvale Scout Group. Through their collective efforts, freshly prepared vegetarian meals were shared with community members in need, offering warmth and care during the winter season.

All meal boxes were thoughtfully preparedby temple volunteers. Beyond meeting immediate food needs, the outreach reflected the meaningful role of faith communities in responding to local social challenges through compassionate action. Through hands-on participation, Scouts engaged in service learning, cultivating empathy, social awareness, anda strong sense of civic responsibility, while putting the value of compassion into everyday practice.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto noted that its participation in the Sunday Dinners program grew out of interfaith dialogue initiated at the W9 Faith Leaders Meeting held in May 2025. Convened by Martin Reid, City Councillor for Ward 9, City of Mississauga, the meeting brought together representatives from Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, and other faith communities to explore collaborative approaches to supporting vulnerable populations through shared resources and coordinated service.

During the meeting, Pastor Sam Cooper introduced several community outreach efforts, including the Sunday Dinners meal program and the Loads of Care laundry assistance initiative, both addressing essential needs related to food security and basic living support.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing interfaith collaboration, working alongside community partners to strengthen local connections and help build a more compassionate and inclusive community support network.

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