Lena lives at 91 Augusta Avenue, a popular Toronto Community Housing residence for Chinese seniors in Toronto’s Kensington-Chinatown community. Previously, we told the story of how Dr. Lim, the unofficial doctor-in-residence, brings his unique brand of medical care to the many Chinese seniors who call the building home. In this piece, we see what life is like in this Toronto neighbourhood through the eyes of Lena, a 90-year-old mother of six and grandmother of seven. When her loving husband passed away two years ago, her life changed irrevocably. Most of Lena’s children live in China, leaving her alone at 91 Augusta Avenue. No longer able to depend on her family for support, Lena has tried to remain active so she can keep living independently.
More from this issue
Bubble Tea, Dollar Stores, and Dialysis?
When Target closed in Canada, it left a crater in many suburban malls. In Thorncliffe Park, a group of health care providers stepped in.
Collision Course
In inner suburbs like Mount Dennis, the convenience of commuters zooming through often takes precedence over the wellbeing of locals.
Shedding Light on the Shadow
How a drop-in program for youth is changing the nature of mental health recovery on Toronto’s west side.
Hunger in a City of Plenty
In virtually every culture, people connect over food. To be deprived of food is to be alienated from social life.
Unsung Heroes: Ghirmai the Interpreter
In a city of immigrants, interpreters play an often overlooked role — trekking across the GTA to ensure new Torontonians are understood.
Unsanctioned
The stories behind Parkdale’s overdose prevention site.
The Roma of Flemingdon Park
Jen Quinlan was just trying to get Roma kids to the dentist. She ended up picking a fight with one of Canada’s richest real estate companies.
Young, Pregnant, No Fixed Address
Lack of affordable housing can have devastating and long-lasting health effects for teenage parents and their children.
Living Without Drug Coverage
Like so many part-time workers in Canada, Olivia is faced with difficult budget decisions every time she gets sick.
Cooking in the Shelter
I have cooked in restaurant kitchens, and for newspaper readers. Working at a shelter taught me a new way to look at food.