Ruth had only $45 in her purse when she
emigrated to Canada from South Africa in 1960.

She understands what it’s like to be alone in the city, with very little, and few prospects. Despite thinking that her time in Toronto would only amount to a couple of years, she ended up falling in love with the city and its people. 

“I’ve had such a wonderful life,” she remarks with gratitude. “I was fortunate to find a job when I arrived in Toronto, and I’ve always felt incredibly thankful to be here.” 

This past year, Ruth celebrated a milestone birthday, her 85th. While much of our city—and the world—remained in rotating lockdowns, Ruth decided to celebrate her birthday in a unique way—by “giving herself a present,” as she calls her own generosity. 

So she made a large purchase of cupcakes, cookies, and sodas as a special treat for the clients who stay in Scott Mission’s emergency shelter for men, bringing our shelter residents much joy. 

“During the pandemic, I had seen people
lining up in the cold for a meal, and I knew
that I wanted to help them,” she says of her
desire to help Scott Mission’s clients.

Ruth is also a generous legacy donor to the Scott Mission – naming the Mission as a beneficiary of her estate in her will. 

“Many people, through no fault of their own, find themselves in difficult circumstances, like losing a job and not being able to pay one’s rent,” she says. 

“It gives me great joy to give,” she continues. “And it makes me look forward to my next significant birthday—so that we can all have a dinner together!” 

Scott Mission is grateful to legacy donors like Ruth, who have the vision to see that what we give today enables the Mission to help those in need tomorrow and for generations to come. 

Thank you for reading Ruth’s story of giving.
If you would like more information on how to leave a legacy at Scott Mission,
please contact Kendra Hickton at khickton@scottmission.com.