Lean on me!

Growing up, I loved watching Stand By Me, Rob Reiner’s poignant and special film about friendship. The teen classic also introduced me to Bill Withers’ Lean on Me, a song that bounces around in my head whenever I notice another shift of volunteers trickling into our clinic.

Lean On Me is the mantra around here at Planned Parenthood Toronto. Imagine the person you can turn to with your most personal questions; the person who answers all of your confusing questions about sexual health when you were a teen. That’s what our peer educators do. 

These amazing volunteers talk to clients one-on-one, answering questions about birth control, sexually transmitted infections, medical abortions, and more. Whether it’s over the phone, in person, or via video call, they create a safe and non-judgmental space where youth can get the answers they need and the care they deserve.

Because of the support of our friends — friends just like you — we can continue training these dedicated peer educators. They help with absolutely everything: from pregnancy tests to arranging funding paperwork for clients without health insurance. It’s about more than just providing information though; it’s about creating meaningful connections and empowering young people to make informed decisions about their health and futures.

Just the other day, a bright and determined teen came to us confused, with so many questions about birth control. She wasn’t just looking for answers — she was seeking clarity, agency, and support. Thanks to our team of volunteers, she found a safe space where she could learn about every option — from the birth control pill to an IUD — without judgment. She left, not just with contraception, but with something more powerful: the confidence to take control of her body and her choices.

What we do at Planned Parenthood Toronto is far more than providing health services and community programs. It’s about ensuring young people in Toronto have access to the tools and knowledge they need to lead lives of their own making. Your support has helped us remain a trusted source, a beacon for youth across this city who deserve to know their rights, their options, and their power.

Thank you so much for ensuring youth in Toronto have someone to lean on.

We are so grateful you and our community of supporters are making so much of this possible — you’re truly helping to build a healthier, brighter future.

Warmly,

Lali Mohamed

Director of Development & Communications

Planned Parenthood Toronto