The Legacy Fund was established through a generous gift from Reva’s Gerstein’s sons in honour of their mother’s significant contributions to the mental health community and her interest in education, research, and other projects that celebrate the independent spirit of the survivor community.
The fund supports projects that are run by and for psychiatric survivors. Successful submissions include a variety of initiatives including tuition, art and film, educational and small business support.
The fund is dispersed annually by a committee consisting of the Executive Director, representatives of the board and an outside representative from the psychiatric survivor community.
If you are interested in applying for a grant from the Reva Gerstein Legacy Fund, please contact the Executive Director, Susan Davis, at (416) 929-0149 ext. 222 or sDavis@gersteincentre.org
Guide for Submissions
Successful submissions include a variety of initiatives including tuition, art and film, educational, and small business support.
Proposals should have a budget of no more than $4000 (most grants are in the $500-$1500 range).
Applications should include contact information, a description of the initiative, and the budget.
All proposals should be mailed to Gerstein Crisis Centre, 100 Charles St. E, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 1V3 or sent by e-mail to legacyfund@gersteincentre.org.
Follow-up conversations or meetings may also be arranged.
The process for application includes a letter of interest outlining the following;
- A brief description of how the project achieves the goals of the Legacy Fund.
- A short overview of the project or purpose for which assistance is requested (2 pages max).
- A brief description of past projects that will indicate your ability to complete this endeavour.
- A brief budget and time-line of activities (up to $4000 however most projects funded fall into the $500-$1500 range).
- Alternative funding sources to complete the project if the Legacy Fund is unable to fund the whole budget.
Submission deadline: May 30, 2025
Reva Gerstein (1917-2020)
Dr. Reva Gerstein had a long and distinguished career as a psychologist, educator, and community leader. She made an extraordinary impact on mental health and its related research. Educated as a psychologist, she received her Ph.D. from the University of Toronto in 1945.
