Coffee with Caroline

Last week, we had the chance to sit down and chat with one of our community members, Caroline. Over coffee and fruit, she told me a bit about herself, her life in Toronto, and her love of painting at our art drop-ins.

“Since the pandemic started, I’ve been coming regularly to Sanctuary. What I really like is the art drop-in on Wednesday afternoons. It’s more low-key. People don’t bring dogs inside. It’s so different on Wednesdays, it’s very relaxing. I love it! I’ve always liked art, but I can’t do it by myself. I need people around, doing it together. It’s exciting for me – I get excited every time I come.”

“Art is like therapy to me. My favourite thing to paint is food. The last thing I did was a hamburger. I copy from things I see around me, and from the Longo’s recipe booklet.”

“I get isolated. For over 30 years I’ve been at Toronto Community Housing. I’ve been homeless a few times. It’s terrible when you live alone and you have health problems. I was really depressed before. But I got a computer last April. That really helped. I saved for a whole year for that computer. I feel more connected now. Also, I highly recommend the Toronto Seniors Helpline. They’re the ones that keep me going.”

“The art drop-in gives me a sense of belonging. It gives me a sense of purpose, and it’s social. I know the people here. I like how people care here. Painting in this space distracts me from the harsh reality of life. It has a calming effect. I’m hooked on it! I wish life was lovely like that. I wish life was as lovely as art downstairs.”

Journeying Together

This Way Up