The Peggy Ann Walpole Women’s Choir (Formerly The Street Haven Women’s Choir)

Street Haven Women’s Choir was founded in 2000 by Geoffrey Butler, the Artistic Director of the Toronto Choral Society. His vision was to provide women who use or have used the services of Street Haven at the Crossroads the opportunity to experience the joy and healing powers of singing together. 

Street Haven is a multi-faceted organization located in downtown Toronto, serving women through emergency shelter beds, addiction services, a learning centre, and supportive housing. 

In 2019, Street Haven Women’s Choir was renamed in honour of Peggy Ann Walpole who founded the organization in 1965. 

Initial funding for our sister choir was provided by the United Way. Since then, the choir has been supported financially by TCS, private donors, a generous anonymous sponsor, and Toronto Firefighters Operation Christmas Tree. 

Prior to pandemic restrictions, the choir rehearsed weekly under Mr. Butler’s direction, learning an eclectic repertoire of folk, traditional and classical music. They performed at special events in the community, and annually with Toronto Choral Society at a benefit concert called The Gift of Song.