Join us on the last Thursday in October!

Every October, children’s aid societies and Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agencies, together with their community partners, raise awareness about the importance of supporting vulnerable children, youth, and families through the provincial Dress Purple Day campaign.

This year’s theme, It Takes a Community, highlights how strong community connections and early support can help families before challenges become crises. It also reminds children and youth that they have a right to safety and well-being and that trusted adults and supports in their communities are #HereToHelp.

Wear purple on the last Thursday in October to show your support and celebrate the people who make a difference in your community.

How the campaign began

Dress Purple Day has its roots in a local purple ribbon campaign launched in the Greater Toronto Area in 1992 to raise awareness about child abuse. Over time, it grew into a provincial campaign. Today, Dress Purple Day emphasizes the shared role communities play in supporting children, youth and families through connection, prevention and early support.