Inside a Canada Post mail carrier’s last day of home delivery in Toronto

In Toronto, Canada Post mail carrier Anita McCulloch bid farewell to her last day of home deliveries in the Rexdale neighbourhood on Friday. Known for her bright green vest and friendly demeanor, McCulloch has served the community for 2.5 years, making connections with residents, from the elderly to their beloved pets.

The shift to community mailboxes, aimed at modernizing Canada Post's service amidst declining letter mail and financial losses, affects roughly four million addresses. Rexdale, a neighbourhood with old trees and autumn leaves, was one of the earliest to undergo this change. McCulloch expressed her sadness at leaving behind the personal interactions and human touch she values so much.

Residents, like the Kay family, expressed their appreciation for McCulloch's friendly presence. Steve Kay noted her role in the community, saying, "She cares about what she does." However, some neighbours are concerned about potential mailbox vandalism and the loss of the personal touch in mail delivery. McCulloch, besides sorting mail, has kept an eye on residents who might need assistance, including calling 911 for emergencies.

As Canada Post moves towards a more centralized delivery model, residents worry about the loss of personal connections. Zach Avdelopoulos, president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, Toronto local, highlighted the difficulty for mail carriers and urged communities to voice their concerns.