Good Deeds on Dundas I recently wandered into the back of 630 Dundas, home to many entrepreneurs and start-up businesses, when I came across some folks who were packing up food boxes by the dozens to be delivered to homes around town. After introducing myself to the woman in charge, Mystery Furtado, who was working away with her team, she explained what was happening. From here I got the details about an amazing program called Type Diabeat It which helps educate and support folks manage with diabetes. They provide culturally conscious programming and resources for minority groups here in London. Recently they collaborated with the London Food Bank to create London’s first Black Community Garden. Along with some incredible programming and events Type Diabeat It has made some big moves. Here is what I discovered: How long have you been running or a part of the program Type Diabeat It? Type Diabeat It officially started in 2018. The journey began out of a deep concern for my home country, Belize, where type 2 diabetes is one of the top three causes of death. At the time, I was working as a clinical educator and didn’t expect Canada to need the same type of culturally rooted support—but it quickly became clear that there was a major gap in programs that reflect the lived experiences and cultural realities of people who look like me. What prompted you to start the project? The program was inspired by both personal and professional experiences. I lost both my maternal and paternal grandparents to complications from type 2 diabetes. I vividly remember when my grandmother would come visit me in Canada—she would have me drive all over town, and even to Toronto, just to find the foods she was used to. At the time, I thought she was just being picky, but as I began working more closely with patients and saw firsthand how food, culture, and health intersect within the
chronic care model, it all clicked. The connection between type 2 diabetes and food insecurity became undeniable. That “light bulb” moment solidified my commitment to starting this work. How long has the food box program been running? The food box program began in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It started with just four rows of produce grown at the London Food Bank and a mission to support 30 families. Since then, the need has grown exponentially. Why did you want to start the food box program? It was born out of necessity. The pandemic exposed deep- rooted food insecurity in our communities, particularly among Black, Caribbean, and African populations. I wanted to offer more than just food—I wanted to provide culturally appropriate nourishment that reflects the diets of our community. Food is not just sustenance; it’s culture, healing, and connection. How many boxes are you able to supply? We currently have over 500 families registered in our food box program. What started as 30 families quickly grew to 50, then 80, then 100—and it hasn’t stopped. Our goal is to support each family at least once a month, but the demand continues to grow.
To advertise here, please contact Marty@villagerpublications.com Working out of 630 Dundas Street in OEV has been a blessing. There’s a real sense of community among the local businesses, and people look out for one another. I feel the love and support here. That said, like many areas, OEV has its challenges. Issues like discarded needles, feces, and general cleanliness need to be addressed at the root cause. We need to speak up to ensure that the community remains not just vibrant and welcoming—but also safe and healthy for everyone. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or learning more about this great organization, be sure to check out more at www.diabeat-it.ca How have you enjoyed working out of the location in Old East Village?
Page 8 Old East Villager July-August 2025
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