Cover Me Urban - Rexdale

Cover Me Urban - Rexdale

Youth Without Shelter – commonly known as ‘YWS’ – is a charity offering shelter and support for youth facing homelessness in the GTA. Since our founding in 1986, we have been providing client-focused services in a non-judgmental environment for youth aged 16 – 24. Located in North Etobicoke, we are a house where a youth’s culture and needs are understood, and where each youth can receive shelter, one-on-one guidance, mental health and wellness supports, and training, through our wrap-around model of programming.  

Toronto is recognized as one of the most diverse cities in the world. Over 250 ethnicities and 180 languages are represented here. For the past 9 years, Cover Me Urban has been a celebration of our diversity. We come together for a special night to celebrate the culture-rich neighbourhoods of Toronto for an electric evening of urban sights and sounds. We sample street foods prepared by local Toronto Chefs, enjoy visual arts, music and entertainment, all while supporting and bringing awareness to youth within our city who struggle with the realities of homelessness. 

While celebrating our diversity, CMU fundraising events have always represented different cultures and communities by having “neighbourhoods” in our venues to embody the spirit of Toronto.  

Each year, Cover Me Urban takes inspiration from one of our cultural neighbourhoods of Toronto. We aim to explore and learn about our communities while raising awareness to the thousands of youth within them who struggle to find a safe place to call home. Last year, for our first stop in our Neighbourhood Series, we looked back to our roots, exploring the original neighbourhood and meeting place on this land – Tkaronto. Working alongside First Nations, knowledge holders, artists, and organizations within our community, “CMU – Tkaronto, The Original Meeting Place” was a collaborative celebration of the origins of our city – the original meeting place. 

Our next stop in our Neighbourhood Series takes us a bit closer to home where we’ll be celebrating the Community of Rexdale! 

Home to YWS for over 35 years, Rexdale is known for its diversity and resilience, making it a great example of the strength that can be found in local communities when people come together to support one another. 

Rexdale is a remarkable and culturally diverse community, where residents from all corners of the world come together to create a rich and vibrant mosaic. The strength of Rexdale lies in its unity, celebrating a blend of traditions, languages, and customs. At the heart of Rexdale's vitality are its youth - a strong, inspiring generation who embraces their heritage while working to shape a brighter future for not only themselves but their community at large. Building and supporting this local community is not just a commitment; it's a celebration of the unique talents, stories, and potential that reside within. CMU 2024 will be a celebration of resilience, growth, and hope for a better tomorrow. 

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Rec Room, 255 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Canada