Community Involvement
Beyond The Build: Our Commitment to Community
At D&R Custom Steel, community means more than just a location. It’s about the people, partnerships, and shared purpose that shape where we live and work. As a company with deep roots in Ontario, we believe in showing up for the communities, collaborators, and places that have influenced our journey. Giving back is part of who we are! Whether it’s through charitable initiatives, local partnerships, or supporting causes that matter to our employees. We understand that our success is built on strong relationships with our clients, our dedicated team, and the broader community. That’s why we’re committed to making a meaningful impact wherever we can. From supporting local food banks to encouraging the next generation of skilled trades professionals, we’re proud to play a role in building a stronger, more connected community.
Initiatives
Giving Back: D&R’s Partnership with Feed the Need in Durham
At D&R Custom Steel, we believe that real impact goes beyond the shop floor. That’s why we’re proud to support Feed the Need Durham, a local non-profit organization that plays a vital role in fighting food insecurity across the Durham Region.
FTN Durham is the central food distribution hub for emergency food providers in the region, supplying more than 60 partner agencies – including food banks, shelters, meal programs, and community service centres. They serve thousands of individuals and families facing food insecurity by distributing millions of pounds of food each year.
As a long standing supporter, D&R contributes to this important mission in multiple ways. From organizing workplace food drives and providing donations, to encouraging our employees to get involved through volunteering. We’re so proud as a company to align with an organization that shares our commitment to community resilience and support.
By partnering with Feed the Need, we’re helping to ensure that no table goes empty in the community we call home. For us, giving back isn’t just something we do, it’s part of who we are.
Gate 3:16 Outreach Centre
Gate 3:16 is a community outreach centre based in Oshawa that provides essential support services for individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and hardship. Through daily meals, counselling, health services, and employment support, Gate 3:16 offers dignity, compassion, and stability to those in need. D&R is proud to support this critical resource in Durham Region.
The Refuge Youth Outreach Centre
The Refuge offers safety, mentorship, and basic needs for at-risk and homeless youth in Oshawa. Through housing supports, life skills programming, and crisis care, The Refuge empowers young people to break cycles of poverty and build brighter futures. D&R stands behind their mission to create hope and opportunity for vulnerable youth in our community.
Make-A-Wish® Canada
Make-A-Wish Canada creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. These experiences provide hope, strength, and joy during some of life’s most difficult moments. D&R supports Make-A-Wish because we believe in the lasting impact that compassion and shared moments of happiness can bring to families across the country.
SickKids Foundation
The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is one of the world’s foremost paediatric healthcare institutions. From groundbreaking research to life-saving surgeries, SickKids leads the way in children’s health. D&R is honoured to support their work and contribute to a future where every child can thrive.
Whitby Curling Club
As a long-standing part of the Whitby community, the Whitby Curling Club promotes active living, teamwork, and connection through sport. D&R supports the club’s mission to make curling accessible and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels in a welcoming, community-driven environment.
Possibilities House – Mexico
Possibilities House offers safety, education, and care for vulnerable children in Mexico who have experienced abandonment or abuse. Their work provides not only shelter but a loving environment where children can heal and grow. D&R supports this international initiative as part of our broader commitment to making a meaningful difference, locally and globally.
Whitby Football Club
The Whitby Football Club plays an important role in developing youth through soccer, encouraging discipline, sportsmanship, and community spirit. D&R is proud to back programs that help young athletes grow both on and off the field.
Student Programs & Apprenticeship Partnerships
D&R Custom Steel is committed to building the future of skilled trades through active participation in student-focused programs. We proudly support local high school co-operative education (co-op) placements and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), providing students with hands-on experience in fabrication, welding, machining, and industrial operations. We also maintain strong relationships with local colleges and skilled trades schools, to support apprenticeship pathways and post-secondary development. By investing in education and mentorship, we’re helping prepare the next generation of trades professionals and reinforcing the long-term strength of Canada’s fabrication industry.
