TO Artists Unite for ‘The Forgotten Homeless’ Music Campaign

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A powerful new music-driven campaign is uniting Toronto’s arts and advocacy communities to raise awareness about the city’s escalating homelessness crisis.

At the centre of the initiative is “The Forgotten Homeless”, a song by Toronto singer-songwriter Richard Todd, performed by his ensemble Artists Against Homelessness. The song serves as both tribute and call to action — blending creativity, compassion, and community impact.

The initiative has gained national attention and is featured in the City of Toronto’s Market Gallery exhibit, At Home in Toronto (on view until Nov. 30). Todd’s guitar, handwritten lyrics, and the music video are displayed alongside a QR code for streaming the track on Spotify and YouTube.

“It’s a vivid example of how art can illuminate the housing crisis,” says Kendra Campbell, Museum Administrator, Museum & Heritage Services.

According to Toronto’s 2024 Street Needs Assessment, the number of unhoused people has more than doubled since 2021 — from 7,300 to 15,400. “The Forgotten Homeless” channels that urgency into awareness and support.

All streaming royalties support WoodGreen Community Services’ UNMET Needs Campaign, helping those facing homelessness in Toronto.

“Music has the power to unite people,” says Todd. “This project is about empathy and real impact.”

Todd is also the founder of Warm it Up!, a grassroots outreach effort that has assisted more than 3,800 individuals with socks, gloves, and essential supplies. The project was produced by Chris Birkett, a Juno Award–winning producer known for his work with Sinead O’Connor and Talking Heads.