Editor’s Note: The Following is an abridged version of a story written as part of a collaboration with The Globe and Mail. The story originally appeared on September 25, 2015.

Growing up, I felt like a loner. It was tough to fit in.

But at Queen and Bathurst, it didn’t matter who you were, or where you came from.

Punks, rockers, and all sorts of kids hung out there. Some were homeless.

Instead of being rejected elsewhere, we made a place where we belonged.

Thanks to Frankie for sharing her story. Check out her band, Frankie Whyte and the Dead Idols!

Hogtown Stories is a project by Jeremy Korn. Follow Hogtown Stories on Facebook and Instagram!