​The Jewish Festival of Shavuot commemorates the revelation at Mount Sinai, when God gave the Israelites the Torah. This year it occurs on May 24–26. The biblical description of that moment is dramatic—thunder, lightning, fire, and the sound of the shofar—marking a defining turning point when a newly freed people became a covenantal community bound by shared law and purpose.

For me, this is not simply a distant historical event. Jewish tradition teaches that all Jews—past, present, and future—stood together at Sinai. In that sense, the giving of the Torah is ongoing, calling each generation, and each of us personally, to listen, interpret, and respond anew.

In synagogue on Shavuot we read the Book of Ruth. At first glance, this may seem paradoxical, since the book is not explicitly about the Torah or even about God. Instead, it tells the simple story of Ruth—a kind and gentle woman who, in a time of loss and uncertainty, pledges her loyalty to the Jewish people and to her family. Yet it is precisely this quiet story of devotion and moral choice that reflects the deeper meaning of Shavuot: that accepting the Torah is not only about revelation at Sinai, but about how we live—with kindness, commitment, and responsibility toward others.

We are reminded of this enduring truth each time we read the Torah. At the conclusion of the reading, the Torah is lifted high for all to see, and we recite the blessing that calls it a “tree of life.” It is not merely an ancient text of laws and history, but a living guide—one that continues to shape how we think, act, and live each day.

Another tradition is to eat dairy foods. At my son’s congregation in Maryland, they even hold a contest for the best cheesecake. Few would disagree that a holiday that involves eating cheesecake is well worth celebrating.

“It is a tree of life to those who hold fast to it, and all who uphold it are happy. Its ways are ways of pleasantness, and all its paths are peace.” (Proverbs 3:17–18)

​Tulipathon is a chance to take meaningful action on affordable housing in our community.

Each year, people across the city come together to walk, give, and support the work of Multifaith Housing Initiative. What begins as a simple walk leads to real impact for tenants who need safe, stable housing.

This year’s campaign comes at a time when the need for affordable housing continues to grow. Funds raised through Tulipathon help maintain homes, support tenants, and create opportunities for people to build stability in their lives.

We are proud to have Natasha Hall & Associates Inc. returning as our Presenting Sponsor. As they shared: “Natasha Hall & Associates Inc. is proud to return as Presenting Sponsor for a second year in support of Multifaith Housing Initiative and the meaningful work they do right here in our community. Our values are deeply aligned in believing that safe, stable housing strengthens families and neighbourhoods, and we are committed to being part of a local solution to the housing crisis for those who need it most.”

Tulipathon is powered by community. Walkers, donors, volunteers, and partners come together with a shared purpose. Every step and every contribution helps make affordable housing possible.

Join us.

For siblings Spencer and Shelby, living at The Haven has made it easier than ever to stay connected while still enjoying their own independence.

The two now live in the same housing community, which means spending time together comes naturally. Whether it’s watching Netflix at Spencer’s apartment or letting Shelby take the lead on entertainment at hers, they have found a rhythm that works for both of them. While they don’t often cook together, they enjoy sharing meals and visiting each other regularly. Living close by has not changed their relationship, but it has given them more opportunities to spend time together.

What stands out most to both Spencer and Shelby is the strong sense of community at The Haven. They describe it as a friendly and welcoming place where people are kind and connections come easily. Shelby especially enjoys the community garden, where she spends time working on her plot. Spencer, who is newer to The Haven, appreciates the calm environment and the convenient access to public transit, with a nearby bus stop that makes getting around simple.

Both are looking forward to the summer months, especially the community BBQs. These gatherings offer a chance to meet other tenants and build new friendships, something they both value.

When it comes to daily life, Spencer and Shelby enjoy having their own spaces. Spencer spends his time on the computer, watching TV, and reading, while Shelby enjoys TV, computer games, and walking along the pathway outside the building. They both appreciate the balance of independence and connection, often chatting with neighbours and building relationships within the community.

Outside of The Haven, they enjoy typical sibling activities like going to the movies and going out to eat. Now that they live so close, they are excited to spend more time shopping, visiting bookstores and gaming shops, and going for walks together.

Living independently has also brought new experiences. Spencer has discovered a love of cooking since moving into his own apartment. With assistance and encouragement from his support workers, Chris and Aby, he has been building his skills and confidence in the kitchen. Shelby is also supported in her day to day life by her support worker, Maggie, helping her maintain her routines and stay connected to the community around her.

Both Spencer and Shelby describe their experience at The Haven as a positive one. From decorating their apartments with posters to building friendships and routines, they are creating a space that feels like home while staying closely connected to each other.

Their journey to independent living has also been supported by the important partnership with LiveWorkPlay. Through this collaboration, Spencer and Shelby have been able to access the supports and opportunities that make living independently not only possible, but meaningful and sustainable.

Spencer and Shelby at LiveWorkPlay's "Make A Buzz" event with their Mom, Sandra and Keenan, the Director of Communications at LiveWorkPlay, in the background. Spencer received the Terri Hill My Own Home Bursary Award.