As the holiday season arrived in Toronto, ODSP Support continued our winter outreach by visiting local disability-support organizations to host a festive gingerbread cookie decorating event. This simple activity brought joy, laughter, and connection to adults with disabilities across the GTA — creating a heartwarming afternoon filled with creativity and community spirit.
From icing sugar smiles to gingerbread people wearing tiny candy coats, the event was bursting with personality, warmth, and holiday magic.
Decorating Gingerbread Cookies & Gingerbread People
Participants had the chance to decorate their own gingerbread cookies and gingerbread people using:
colourful icing sprinkles marshmallows festive candies chocolate chips edible glitter (a fan favourite!)
Everyone made something unique — some created classic gingerbread people, others designed joyful characters, winter scenes, or creative patterns that reflected their personality. The room was full of laughter, conversation, and the smell of fresh gingerbread.
These moments didn’t just create cookies — they created memories.
Accessible, Inclusive Holiday Fun
One of our goals is ensuring every event is adapted for individuals of all mobilities and abilities.
We made sure the environment was:
wheelchair accessible table heights suitable for seated participation decorations and tools easy to grip guided support available for anyone who needed assistance
Our team and the staff at each organization made sure every participant felt included, supported, and proud of what they created.
Conversations About Proper Care Products & Health Supports
This wasn’t only a craft afternoon — it was also a great opportunity to share important information about care products, incontinence support, and ODSP-covered health benefits in a relaxed, friendly environments.
Bringing Holiday Spirit to Every Space
The event created a warm, festive environment that helped residents feel connected and uplifted during a season that can often feel isolating for people with disabilities.
Every participant received:
a holiday treat extra craft supplies supportive resources and a warm thank-you from our team
Seeing residents smile, laugh, and proudly show off their decorated gingerbread people reminded us why these community connections matter so deeply.
Our Ongoing Mission
At ODSP Support, our mission is to build community through:
inclusion education empowerment in-person engagement and accessible activities
By partnering with organizations across the GTA, we bring support directly to residents in a way that is meaningful, human, and rooted in respect.
This gingerbread event was one more reminder that small moments can make a big difference — especially during the holiday season.
We look forward to continuing these events, bringing warmth and connection to more homes, centres, and communities across Ontario.
