Ruby Dalvina

Dear Readers, As Thanksgiving draws near, many of us are already picturing the golden turkey on the table, the laughter of loved ones, and the warmth of gratitude filling our homes. But behind the joy of this season, there are also families quietly wondering how they will put a meal on the table at all. This is where NeighbourLink steps in—not just with food, but with dignity, compassion, and a reminder that no one is ever truly alone. The Heart of NeighbourLink’s Thanksgiving NeighbourLink is preparing for its biggest Thanksgiving yet. With the growing demand in our community, the need has nearly doubled compared to last year. Through its two food banks, NeighbourLink now supports more than 250 families each month, offering not just non-perishable goods but also fresh produce, poultry, dairy, and household essentials. This Thanksgiving, NeighbourLink is taking on the challenge of providing: Two full Thanksgiving distributions—one at each food bank. Turkeys, chickens, hams, vegetables,...

  Every so often, a community event comes along that isn’t just about what’s being sold or bought, but about what’s being built: connections, kindness, and care. Willowdale Yard Sale Day, hosted by NeighbourLink North York, is one of those rare events where shopping secondhand becomes a doorway to something much greater — community engagement and environmental responsibility. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Willowdale will come alive with over 50 yard sales happening simultaneously across the neighbourhood: 20+ indoor sales at Lansing United Church (49 Bogert Ave) from 9 am–1 pm 20+ indoor sales at Spring Garden Church (112 Spring Garden Ave) from 9 am–1 pm 15+ sales at homes across Willowdale To make things even easier, NeighbourLink has created the Willowdale Yard Sale Map, which last year received an astonishing 90,000+ views. This simple yet powerful tool allows residents to find sales, plan their routes, and maximize their experience while ensuring vendors can reach more neig...

  “I’m Fine”—When Silence Feels Safer Than the Truth By Ruby Dalvina Dear Readers, There’s something I’ve been reflecting on lately—something many of us carry quietly but rarely name. It’s that moment when someone asks, “How are you?” and we respond with a soft, automatic “I’m fine,” even when we’re not. Not because we want to lie. But because, in that moment, the truth feels… unsafe. Too heavy. Too complex. Too vulnerable to unwrap in passing conversation. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—saying “I’m fine” with a smile that hides storms, not out of deception, but out of self-preservation. Why We Say “I’m Fine” When We’re Not Sociologists and psychologists agree: emotional safety plays a huge role in whether we express our true feelings. Vulnerability can be terrifying—especially in a world where strength is often misdefined as stoicism. According to a 2023 report from the American Psychological Association, 63% of adults admit they avoid sharing th...

By Ruby Dalvina Blog:  rubyelitedalvina.blogspot.com Dear beautiful souls, If you’re reading this and your heart is heavy — like it’s carrying the weight of a hundred betrayals, broken promises, unanswered prayers, and sleepless nights — I want to say this: You are not alone, even when it feels like you absolutely are. This blog is for you — the one who trusted too much, hoped too hard, believed in the goodness of people (especially your own blood), only to be met with silence, selfishness, or betrayal. It’s for the one who once clung to God like breath, only to now ask, “Are You even there?” It’s for those who stare at the ceiling at 3 AM, whispering, “What’s the purpose of all this?” I’ve been there. I know that emotional numbness wrapped in a smile. I know the quiet agony of questioning whether you’ve wasted the most valuable years of your life loving the wrong people, defending the ungrateful, and giving yourself away like your heart was a clearance sale. Let’s talk. When Life ...

  🍷 Warning: This event may cause temporary Italian accent, excessive use of the 🤌 emoji, and the inexplicable need to argue about whose nonna makes the best sauce. Buona fortuna! 🇮🇹 By: Ruby Dalvina 

  Dear readers, If your taste buds are feeling a little underappreciated lately—or if your social life could use a cultural jolt, music, food, and laughter—then drop everything and mark your calendars: June 6–8, 2025, Taste of North York is back for its 3rd delicious round, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it. I’ve had the joy of attending this vibrant community food festival for the past two years, and let me tell you—it’s one of those rare events that not only fills your belly, but fills your heart. And yes, your Instagram feed too. It’s happening at Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St.)—a perfect spot for the magic that unfolds when families, friends, cultures, cuisines, artists, and music all collide in the best way possible. What to Expect This Year (And Why You’ll Love It) NeighbourLink North York—the brilliant community force behind this festival—is hosting its 3rd annual Taste of North York and it’s bigger, brighter, and more belly-rumbling than ever. From Korean bulgogi ...

Dear reader, Let’s admit it: Staying fit in Canada is a different kind of challenge. One day, you’re walking through golden autumn leaves in leggings, feeling like a fitness goddess. The next, you’re scraping snow off your car in -25°C, wondering if shovelling counts as cardio (spoiler: it does). Between our moody weather, long winters, and generous poutine portions, keeping up with fitness can feel like trying to jog through maple syrup. But here’s the twist: being fit doesn’t have to look like a six-pack or a TikTok dance routine. It can be joyful, gentle, Canadian, and even… cozy. Let’s talk about how to embrace fitness in a way that fits your life, your climate, and your values—without turning it into a punishment. Why Fitness Matters (Even When It’s Freezing) According to ParticipACTION, a Canadian non-profit promoting physical activity, only 16% of adults and 39% of kids meet the recommended activity levels. That’s not to shame anyone—it’s to highlight how easy it is to fall into...

  Dear reader, If you’ve ever wondered where kindness hides in a big city, I want to take you to a place where it lives, breathes, and quietly changes lives every day. There are organizations that serve — and then there are organizations that heal. NeighbourLink North York is one of those rare few. When I first came across their work, it felt like discovering a quiet light that had been glowing steadily, often unnoticed, in the corner of a city buzzing with busyness. But once you see it — truly see it — it’s impossible to forget. And even harder not to admire. Founded in 1994, NeighbourLink North York began with one simple yet radical mission: “To support vulnerable residents of North York with compassion, dignity, and hope.” What started as a grassroots outreach from caring community members has now evolved into a fully established nonprofit that touches hundreds of lives each year — from newcomers and seniors to single mothers and struggling families. “Kindness is never loud, but...