Through Ruff Times 😺 Bocce Ball Tournament

Through Ruff Times is excited to be hosting their third annual Bocce Ball Tournament. 

When: Sunday July 23rd

Where: north/west side of Trinity Bellwoods park (near Crawford St/Dundas St. W)

We would love for you to join us for an event that will not only be fun but will make a difference in supporting people who have pets and are experiencing systemic and social barriers. Through Ruff Times (TRT) operates under Breakaway Community Services (BCS) and has been tirelessly working to support individuals experiencing homelessness, violence, health challenges, and addiction by offering barrier-free care for their animal companions. Over the last few years, there has been a 181% growth in the need for our program, making our services more crucial and necessary than ever. 

In our efforts to extend our assistance, we are organizing a Bocce Ball Fundraising Tournament. Your participation will directly impact the lives of our service users and their furry companions across Toronto. 

Funds raised will help us stay operational so we can focus on expanding our pet care services (there is currently a waitlist) and grow our pet-related grief and loss support program – HOWL (Healing our Way with Love). 

By attending this event, you'll join a compassionate community dedicated to changing the way we support people who have pets and have been disadvantaged by social structures and systems. Together, we can help TRT bridge the gap between the increasing demand for services and our current capacity. Join us for an enjoyable day of fun, camaraderie, and support as we rally behind those facing Ruff Times. 

About Through Ruff Times + Breakaway Community Services 

Through Ruff Times (TRT) started as a grassroots volunteer initiative by Mella & Melissa in 2018. In July 2021, TRT joined Breakaway Community Services (BCS), followed by an additional team/pack member, Sasha. BCS offers comprehensive and effective harm reduction services and a full range of addiction treatment services that are amenable to an individual’s needs and goals. 

Services are offered through community-based facilities with a focus on street and community outreach. TRT is designed to support people and their pets through some of the most challenging times in their lives – homelessness, violent living situations, physical health challenges, and mental health and substance use concerns.  

Since BCS’ integration of TRT, the program saw a skyrocketing client need of 181% -- from 577 clients in 2021 to 1,619 in 2022. Since January 2023, TRT has served 723 clients, indicating that the demand for services will continue to increase. This year, TRT has received 89 requests from individuals looking for emergency pet care services, and currently has a waitlist of 9 pets and 6 clients. Due to the current low program capacity and high demand for our services, this year TRT has only been able to provide care for 10% of the people who have inquired about services.