A Letter of Gratitude
"I am because we are"
Celebrating the impact of B3 funding on Ubuntu Legacy Community Care and our flourishing community in Mississauga.
To
Ms. Arlene Coventry-Bauer
Manager, Community Investment
Region of Peel
Dear Ms. Coventry-Bauer,
We are writing to express our deepest gratitude for the pivotal role you and the Region of Peel's Community Funding program played in the establishment and success of Ubuntu Legacy Community Care. The initial B3 funding we received was the seed from which a vibrant, supportive, and truly self-sustaining community for seniors in Mississauga has grown.
While the grant was modest, its impact has been magnified immeasurably by the incredible generosity, engagement, and spirit of our members.
A Thriving Community in Action
Over the past two years, and particularly throughout 2025, Ubuntu Legacy has flourished. We have moved beyond just offering programs; we have cultivated a deeply connected community.
Therapeutic Nature Walks
Group walks where members connect with nature and each other on a deeper level.
Cultural Celebrations
African drumming workshops and cultural activities that celebrate our heritage.
WhatsApp Community
A 24/7 hub of encouragement and support
Our vibrant WhatsApp group chat serves as a digital gathering place where members celebrate birthdays, share recipes, encourage each other to stay active, and offer support around the clock. It's a testament to the deep bonds our community has formed.
Our Valued Partnerships
We have built strong partnerships that expand our impact and enrich the lives of our members.
Amica Credit Mills
Summer cultural activities including vibrant African drumming workshops that brought together community members of all ages.
Black Youth Farming Collective (BYFC)
Intergenerational programming where seniors shared life experiences and wisdom with younger generations through meaningful farm visits and life skills exchanges.
Ecosource Mississauga
Access to professional commercial kitchen, all ingredients provided, and bus transportation for members. Through the 'Field to Fork' program, seniors learned dishes like Leek and Potato Soup, Roasted Eggplant, and Blueberry Crumble in a state-of-the-art facility with hydroponic towers.
Councillor Martin Reid (Ward 9)
Volunteer Pilates sessions promoting health and wellness within our community.
Local Pharmacist Partnership
We have established a valuable connection with a local pharmacist who our members can reach out to for medication questions and reviews, ensuring their health and safety.
Mississauga Gardening Committee
We are thrilled to share that our member, Joanne, won the Mississauga Seniors Garden award! Her success has led to an invitation for Ubuntu Legacy to join the city's gardening committee, giving our members a voice in shaping green spaces across Mississauga.
Field to Fork with Ecosource
Our partnership with Ecosource Mississauga has been transformative. They provide access to their professional commercial kitchen, supply all ingredients, and arrange bus transportation for our members. Seniors have learned to prepare dishes like Leek and Potato Soup, Roasted Eggplant, and Blueberry Crumble—all in a state-of-the-art facility complete with hydroponic towers growing fresh greens.
The Heart of Ubuntu: Our Members
The true magic of Ubuntu Legacy lies in our members. We have fostered an environment where individual strengths are identified, celebrated, and shared for the benefit of all.
Margaret
A talented fashion designer who has been making beautiful dresses for fellow members.
Olive
A passionate baker who provides delicious cupcakes for our social gatherings, adding sweetness to every celebration.
Sandra
Shares her love for festive cheer by spending time with other seniors during the holidays, helping them decorate their homes.
Norma
A gifted writer who engages our members in storytelling and leads our burgeoning book club.
Yvonne
A beacon of positivity, empowering our members with workshops on maintaining a positive mindset.
Ken
Leads our games nights, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere that has successfully engaged more male members.
Eileen
Facilitates our 'My Life in Order' workshop, helping members navigate important life decisions by creating a roadmap for their families.
Joanne
Won the Mississauga Seniors Garden award! Her success led to Ubuntu joining the city's gardening committee. Also tracks every member's birthday.
Lorna
A retired nurse who has become a powerful advocate for our seniors' health and well-being.
Voices of Our Community
Hear directly from our newest members about their experience with Ubuntu Legacy.
"I was hurting in places that I didn't know I had... I'm here. I'm good."
Community-Driven Sustainability
The spirit of collective ownership has been the driving force behind our sustainability. Recognizing the financial challenges of a small, grassroots organization, and seeing the unpaid work being poured in, our members took action.
$35 Annual Fee
Members collectively decided to introduce an annual membership fee to cover instructors, website, marketing, and presenters.
Monthly Potlucks
Members suggested organizing monthly potlucks where everyone brings a dish to share after workshops, strengthening bonds while reducing costs.
$50 Monthly Donations
Generous members donate monthly because they believe strongly in our mission and want Ubuntu Legacy to continue thriving.
Looking Forward
The Region of Peel's initial investment did more than fund a project; it catalyzed a community. We wanted to share this story with you to demonstrate the remarkable and ever-growing return on that investment.
Thank you once again for your invaluable support and for believing in our vision. We look forward to continuing to make the Region of Peel proud.
With sincere gratitude,
Ubuntu Legacy Community Care
Mississauga, Ontario