Yesterday, the corrupt Ford government unexpectedly adjourned the legislature for an extended winter break, effectively shutting down further debate and accountability for their many offenses. The next sessional day at Queen’s Park will not be until February 20, after Family Day, and a whopping 76 days later.
This early break coincides with the release of yet another scathing annual report from the Auditor General, which raises more concerns over this government’s many, ever-deepening scandals.
Doug Ford knew that if he and his government had to attend even one more Question Period with our strong NDP Official Opposition, he would face heavy scrutiny and be forced to answer more scorching questions about Ontario Place, his government’s underfunding of healthcare, education and preferential treatment of connected PC insiders.
I am grateful for the Auditor General’s thorough work, which paints a rich picture of a corrupt Conservative government abusing their legislative privileges to justify their deal-making schemes to enrich select insiders. Ford’s PCs are lurching from one terrible decision to another with complete disregard for the consequences. They don’t have a plan to help people who are struggling right now amid an affordability crisis.
The big takeaway from this report is that the Conservatives, like the scandal-riddled Liberals before them, keep getting caught in lies and cover-ups, forcing them to reverse course. These cover-ups and reversals have wasted a year of time and money. This behaviour is unacceptable, especially when Ontarians need a stable and solution-focused government more than ever. As the Official Opposition, we have worked hard to expose the deep rot in the Ford government. With your ongoing support, we have forced them to reverse some of their deceitful policies in a matter of weeks, including their Greenbelt grab and controversial urban boundary expansions.
The AG’s report highlights many failings and gaps from the Ford government, but the largest and most concerning are:
ER closures: between July 2022 and June 2023, there were 203 unplanned ER closures. Patient wait times to see a doctor have increased to two hours over the past decade.
Ontario Science Centre: the government failed to consult key stakeholders on the Science Centre move and made the decision based on ‘incomplete’ and insufficient information, driven by the need to justify a publicly-funded parking garage for a private luxury spa company
Northern Healthcare: 10 Northern hospitals closed their obstetrics/maternal health services between July 2022 and September 2023. Four remain closed, and three were closed for more than a year.
This government shows every day that they think they don’t need to consult with anyone or provide proper care for Ontarians as long as it makes their own wealthy insiders even richer.
Despite Ford shutting down the Legislature to hide from his horrible record of corruption and incompetence, you have my word that the Ontario NDP will keep working hard every day on the issues that will make life better and more affordable for everyone.
I am wishing a very happy Hanukkah to our Jewish community members who began celebrating the Festival of Lights last night, a celebration that continues until next Friday. The story of an enduring light at the darkest time of the year at the heart of this festival is something that we can all learn from to honour the survival of the Jewish people and the resilience of humanity.
Over two thousand years ago, Jews lit the Temple menorah even though they knew it couldn't possibly burn long enough. Over the next eight nights, they witnessed a miracle. I think we could all use a reminder of that hope and light right now. Happy Chanukah and Chag Sameach!
Thank you for your resilience. It is an honour to serve you.
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
You’re Invited: TCNDP Holiday Party! |
Join your neighbours and proud New Democrats at the 519 Community Centre on Thursday, December 14, for the TCNDP Holiday Party.
Get ready for a fabulous dinner, prize giveaways, entertainment, festive cheer, and, of course, surprise VIP guests!
Date: Thursday, December 14, 2023
Time: 6 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: The 519 Community Center, 519 Church Street, Ballroom
All are welcome, including Santa’s little helpers. Please register here to reserve your seats.
RAISE Grants Should Include Queer Businesses |
On Tuesday, I sent a letter to Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism outlining the concerns of many Indigenous and racialized queer business owners, especially those in the Church-Wellesely Village. These business owners should be eligible for the Government of Ontario's RAISE Grant. Still, many are worried about their eligibility because their businesses, from pharmacies to clothing and specialty retailers, include references and products relating to sex, sexuality, and sexual orientation. The Ford Conservatives need to grow up and stop codifying sex-negative attitudes. You can read my letter here.
I also spoke to the CBC about the issue and how it is affecting Indigenous and Racialized queer business owners - you can read that interview here.
No Demovictions Press Conference |
On Wednesday, MPP Jessica Bell and I joined No Demovictions Toronto members and tenants at 25 St Mary Street to introduce a new NDP motion calling for a moratorium on demolishing purpose-built rental buildings.
I have spoken to Ontario renters living in purpose-built rentals and worry that a developer will soon purchase their home to demolish it, given the speculative nature of the housing market. These rent-controlled buildings are some of the last affordable housing options in the province, but they are disappearing at alarming rates, with unaffordable investor-driven condos replacing them. In Toronto alone, there are currently more than 80 large buildings, accounting for 3,225 rental homes slated for demolition. In the middle of a housing crisis, this represents thousands of families who face an uncertain future with no place to go. Across Ontario, the picture becomes even more bleak, with even more families and their homes under threat and living in cities with local tenant protection laws that are weaker than Toronto's.
The Conservatives need to protect Ontario families and their homes - not bulldoze them over.
The proposed moratorium on demovictions would remain in effect until the provincial government guarantees fair compensation for tenants during construction so they can rent an apartment nearby during the entire construction period and permit the tenants to return to their rent-controlled home once construction is complete.
These strong renter protections exist in other fast-growing cities around Canada, like Burnaby, BC, and should be the policy here. Development should not be a zero-sum proposition. We can meet our housing supply needs and protect renters at the same time.
Remembering Ron Ellis |
Frequent readers of this newsletter will know that I work closely with Tribunals Watch Ontario, a citizen watchdog group made up primarilty of retired tribunals workers and adjudicators who are dismayed and fired up about the erosion of tribunals infrastructure.
One of those incredible activists was Ron Ellis, described by his colleagues as "the heart and soul of our Tribunal Watch Ontario Steering Committee". Ron passed away last Sunday.
Alec Farquhar, another incredible member of Tribunals Watch, wrote a moving tribute to Ron. I would like to share part of it here:
Ron Ellis was a giant in the field of administrative justice, especially around adjudicative tribunals. He was the founding Chair of the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal, now WSIAT. But he was so much more to worker advocates, to the legal community, and to all those who support access to justice in our country. We offer our deepest condolences and support to Ruth Ellis and the rest of Ron’s family and to his many friends and colleagues who mourn his passing.
Always at the center of Ron’s work was a belief that everyone deserved an administrative justice system which would provide an expert, fair, transparent and independent process to all those with claims or appeals. This was of course a reasonable expectation for those who need to resort our adjudicative tribunals, but the reality has often fallen far short of this, as Ron documented in his important book called Unjust by Design.. And Ron spoke truth to power on these issues, sometimes at great personal cost. He took a stand in 1997 for the independence of WCAT and that ended his term as Chair.
Ron combined intellectual rigour and a mastery of public policy with the ability to structure and lead major institutions. His work ethic was extraordinary. And he was a marvelous human being, in his family life and relations with friends and colleagues, with a lively enquiring mind and a great sense of humour.
We strive to honour Ron with our own continuing advocacy for the integrity and independence of adjudicative tribunals in Ontario, and especially for the principle that those most vulnerable, such as injured workers, have a right to access to justice.
Community Events & Info |
Toronto Queer Market - Holiday Edition |
Toronto Queer Market is back indoors in The 519's ballroom for their two-day long Holiday Market on Dec 9th and 10th! We have an amazing roster of 40 vendors exhibiting their wares from 11 AM - 4:30 PM on Saturday and 11 AM - 3:30 PM on Sunday in the beautiful ballroom of The 519 Community Center.
There will be a drag show from 2-3 PM with Gay Jesus, Lucinda Miu, and Ryder Toole; drinks, food and so many goodies to come see! And best of all, admission is free!
Make a day of it! We’ll also be at STACKT market (28 Bathurst St) from 1-6 PM on Saturday and Sunday as well with 25 different vendors each day. So head on over after to continue your shopping spree!
RSVP and receive updates about the market here!
Regent Park CC Pancake Breakfast |
Join the Regent Park community for the City's annual pancake breakfast at Regent Park Community Center!
Enjoy pancakes and beverages, a visit from Santa Claus, kids crafts, and family games.
When: Saturday, December 9th (tomorrow!) 10 AM - 2 PM
Where: Regent Park Community Center, 402 Shuter Street.
Yonge Street Mission Toy Drive |
Join Yonge Street Mission in bringing the magic of Christmas to over 450 families & 950 children facing hardship through YSM’s Toy Market
Donate online, mail in your toys, or drop them off in person. The deadline for donations is Wednesday, December 20.
Donate new toys in person or lend a helping hand at YSM’s Toy Market from Dec 14, 15 & 18-20 at 306 Gerrard Street East. Let's make this holiday unforgettable for every child!
Learn more about the toy market, preferred donations, and how to get involved here.
Support Corktown Businesses and Win! |
Be one of four people to Win 2 General Admission Tickets to Illuminarium Winter Wonderland at the Distillery. Compliments of the Distillery District Winter Village and the Corktown Residents and Business Association (CRBA).
From Berkeley to River, Front to Shuter Streets: Historic Corktown main street businesses look forward to your visit and are ready to greet you.
Contest Details:
- Follow @CorktownTO Instagram page
- Snap a picture of your favourite decorated Corktown storefront (Berkeley to River Street) and tag @CorktownTO
- Be notified via DM if you are the winner! Winners will be notified by December 18th, and tickets are valid until January 7th.
Questions? Email [email protected] for more information.
51 Division Toy Drive |
Get into the spirit of giving with the 51 Division toy drive! Please bring new, unwrapped toys to be given to children in need in our communities.
Donations can be dropped off to 51 Division Police Station at 51 Parliament Street any time during the holiday season.
Friends of Regent Park Community Skate |
Join Friends of Regent Park for their Community Skate!
When: Saturday, December 30, 1 PM - 3 PM
Where: Regent Park Ice Rink, 480 Shuter Street
FORP have reserved the City's skate lending library. Skates and helmets will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are you Ontario’s Next Poet Laureate? |
The Legislative Assembly of Ontario is seeking nominees to fill the role of Poet Laureate of Ontario. Created in 2019 and named in memory of the late Gord Downie, this appointment is subject to the Poet Laureate of Ontario Act.
Ontario's Poet Laureate will be appointed for a two-year term as an Officer of the Legislative Assembly.
COVID-19 Testing |
The spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses is increasing as the weather gets colder and people stay indoors. Learn more about testing options near you here
Latest posts
January 17 2025 Newsletter
Dear Neighbour,
It has been another week of hurry-up-and-wait in Ontario. Doug Ford continues to dangle the possibility of a snap election in front of us, even as the existential threat of sky-high tariffs from the new Trump administration looms. Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP believe Ford should focus on countering this threat and delivering stability for you and your family — not engaging in a vain election. Frankly, I find it irresponsible and cynical for the Premier to exploit the threat of US tariffs to call for an expensive provincial election more than one year ahead of schedule.
The Ontario NDP and I are ready to go into an election if one is called, and I am so excited about the slate of candidates we have lined up across the province. Just this week, we nominated six candidates and are not letting up. You can learn all about these candidates and the strong visions they have for their communities here.
Despite it being a slower news week in Ontario, huge moves are being made on the international stage. We may finally have a ceasefire agreement that, if respected, will end the Netanyahu government’s current military assault on Gaza and secure the release of the hostages. I am cautiously hopeful for the people of Gaza, all detained hostages, and everyone whose loved ones have been affected by this horrible war. The road to recovery will be a long one, especially for civilians in Gaza, who have faced war crimes and crimes against humanity. Civilians in Gaza are currently living with destroyed healthcare, sanitation, housing, and public infrastructure. They need a ceasefire that includes the unencumbered flow of humanitarian supplies like food, medicine, and clean drinking water.
Rebuilding in the wake of this enormous destruction will be an immense task – only made heavier by the grief so many families are carrying. I am hopeful that the ceasefire agreement holds and that we will see justice and accountability for every warlord responsible for war crimes and genocide. The work does not end here and, in fact, only becomes more complex and delicate. Humanitarian aid is needed more than ever in Gaza, and conditions are worsening daily. I encourage you to stay informed on this issue and to donate to on-the-ground humanitarian organizations as you are able.
Each new year brings with it the possibility of peace, community connection, and our ability to collectively create a more caring world for all. In that spirit, I invite you to celebrate at my New Year’s Levee next Sunday!
Here are the details for your calendar:
Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
Time: 2 – 4 PM
Location: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas Street East
We will have a selection of refreshments and snacks. The venue is wheelchair accessible, including washrooms.
I hope to see you there!
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In This Newsletter |
- Ford’s Ontario Place Schemes - We Deserve Answers
- $200 “Bribe” Cheques Arriving Soon
- Privacy Commissioner: Ford Must Disclose Phone Records
- Cold Weather in Toronto
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community Events
Ford’s Ontario Place Schemes - We Deserve Answers |
We all know about Ford’s shady deal to sell off Ontario Place to a broke Austrian spa company by now, but the news just keeps getting worse.
This week, we learned that the Ontario Place redevelopment plan includes diverting a raw sewage pipe to the West Channel (the above red box). This change will divert the waste from a location that will become a new public beach but that will potentially contaminate areas of the lake currently used by swimmers, rowers, dragon boaters, and other beach users. Advocates from Ontario Place for All have warned that pumping sewage behind a breakwater will create an “entrapped bathtub” of polluted water, since there is reduced water flow in that area of the lake. This is unacceptable and highlights why we need a full environmental assessment for this project.
In an attempt to get answers on the shady Ontario Place deal, the Ontario NDP filed a request with the Integrity Commissioner to look into Ford’s Infrastructure Minister, Kinga Surma. The report came out this week, and generally served to highlight how toothless the Integrity Commissioner is and that we need stricter rules to hold powerful elected officials accountable for their actions. My colleagues and I will continue to use every tool possible to shine a light on this deal.
$200 “Bribe” Cheques Arriving Soon |
Repeatedly called “bribe” cheques on social media, this week, the Ontario Ministry of Finance began sending out cheques to individuals who filed their taxes in 2023. You can watch your mailbox for the cheque in the coming weeks. I do not have further details about the timeline, but when I have more information, I will share it here.
I know these cheques are important to community members who are truly struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. It’s sad to see the corrupt Ford government exploiting the crisis with a one-time vote-buying cheque in advance of their expensive snap election. Instead, Ford could be investing that $3 billion (total costs of rebate) to create long-term affordability and quality-of-life fixes for those who need it most, like raising ODSP and OW rates, funding our healthcare system, fixing our crumbling public schools or building new affordable housing, LTC homes and daycare spaces. Under Ford, there’s no means test for these cheques so even millionaires and billionaires will receive a $200 rebate.
If you are also upset about this bribe and are in a financial position to give your cheque to people in greater need, I encourage you to join with thousands of other Ontarians who have pledged to donate all or part of their $200 to local charities, mutual aid organizations, and others in need. You can make your pledge at 200dollars.ca. This organization is not making any recommendations about where to donate, only collecting pledges and showing the impact that we can make collectively.
Alternatively, you can also donate to the Toronto Centre NDP and help us organize to defeat Ford in his snap election here.
Privacy Commissioner: Ford Must Disclose Phone Records |
This week, the Information & Privacy Commissioner ruled that details about Doug Ford’s use of a personal phone to conduct government business will be made public. The very next day, Ford’s lawyers filed a “request for a judicial review” to keep the phone records private. What is Ford hiding?
The Ontario NDP has been pushing for the release of these records for well over a year and tabled a motion to this effect in 2023. This release would be a huge step towards transparency and accountability for Ontarians and I am so thankful for the diligent work by the IPC on this file.
People in Ontario deserve better than a Premier who doesn’t want you to know who he’s talking to or what he’s saying. Doug Ford likes to say his personal phone is open to anyone – but it’s just another way for him to give preferential treatment to powerful lobbyists and personal friends.
For accountability, government officials are supposed to conduct all business on their government-issued devices, but records show that Ford’s government-issued phone goes unused for months at a time, while he’s known to frequently advertise his personal device. Relatedly, the phone of Ford’s Chief of Staff was mysteriously reset without a back-up, destroying months of messages related to government business
Cold Weather in Toronto |
I hope that you are all staying warm during this cold snap we are experiencing. Cold can be very dangerous, so I encourage you all to check on your elderly and vulnerable neighbours and extend extra compassion to people who are unhoused in our communities. The City of Toronto’s warming centres are now open - you can see the full list of them here. Out of the Cold is also operating hot meal programs and other services at faith buildings across the city. You can find all of the details here. Please share these lists with anyone who needs them and volunteer to keep these programs running if you are able.
This Week's Headlines |
Feds stick provinces with vaccine bill
Five key takeaways from the 2025 Toronto budget
Local businesses vote resounding ‘no’ on funding Historic Queen East BIA
Upcoming Community Events |
Ward 10 Forum: S.T.E.P.S to Mental Health & Well-Being in Schools |
Trustee Deborah Williams invites community members to the Ward 10 Forum: S.T.E.P.S to Mental Health & Well-Being in Schools.
- Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: Online via Zoom
This forum will include an engaging presentation and discussion about supporting mental health and well-being in schools. Topics include creating safe, inclusive, identity-affirming school communities, improving access to mental health supports, and addressing stigma and barriers. Updates will also be shared from the Trustee and Superintendents.
Registration: Register Here
The Zoom link will be emailed to registered attendees.
For accessibility or interpretation needs, contact [email protected] or 416-395-8787. Everyone is welcome!
Regent Park Safety Network Meeting |
The Regent Park Safety Network invites community members to participate in the Regent Park Safety Network Meeting to discuss safety-related issues and initiatives in the neighborhood.
- Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: Online via Zoom
- Zoom Meeting ID: 354 498 5532
For more information, please email Leonard Swartz at [email protected].
Bay Cloverhill Community Association Meeting |
Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Online via Google Meet
Meeting Access:
- Link: Join the Meeting
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Dial-In: 437-781-4585
PIN: 706 177 356 4968#
Agenda Highlights:
- Guest speaker from By-Law Enforcement.
- Updates on neighborhood projects and developments.
- Annual social media report.
- Open discussion on community concerns.
Join us to stay informed and engaged with your community!
FMTA Workshop: Your Tenant Rights |
Are you a tenant who lives in the GTA?
Do you have questions about your rights under the law?
This FREE and interactive workshop explains:
- How leases work
- How to get things fixed
- How legal rent increases are calculated
- What to do when you want to end your tenancy
- How evictions do and don’t work
- And lots more…
Register here for the training.
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Time: 7PM to 8 PM
Location: Virtually over Zoom
Contact: Joeita · [email protected] · 416-413-9442
Notes:
- Zoom links will be sent out the night before
- If you have access needs, please let the FMTA know as soon as possible. They will do our best to work with you.
Being in Good Relation: Actioning Solidarity in the BIPOC Non-Profit Sector |
FoodShare Toronto invites you to "Being in Good Relation: Actioning Solidarity in the BIPOC Non-Profit Sector," a presentation by Shady Hafez exploring solidarity within BIPOC-led and serving non-profits through an Indigenous lens.
- Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- Location: Online
This session will delve into Indigenous perspectives on relationality, highlighting challenges and successes in building solidarity. The discussion will also explore the impacts of both fostering and neglecting positive relationship-building within the sector.
Register here: Event Registration.
Regent Park Cyber Wellness Workshop |
The Regent Park Safety Network is hosting a Cyber Wellness session to promote online safety and healthy digital habits.
- Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: 50 Regent Park Blvd (main floor recreation room)
Register here: Cyber Wellness Event Registration.
The Image Centre Winter Exhibition Season |
The Image Centre is excited to announce the opening of its winter exhibition season, featuring three captivating exhibitions and a special artist talk:
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Opening Reception:
- Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Location: The Image Centre
- The evening will celebrate Michael Benson: Planetfall in the Main Gallery, Yann Pocreau: Towards the Light in the University Gallery, and Kelly Richardson: Origin Stories on the Media Wall.
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Artist Talk with Michael Benson:
- Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: The Image Centre
- Michael Benson will discuss his unique photographic process, his engagement with planetary imagery, and his new body of work. This will be followed by a conversation with Ann Thomas, renowned former senior photography curator at the National Gallery of Canada, to explore the relationship between Benson’s work and the broader history of photography, space, and science.
Seating for the artist talk is limited. To reserve a spot, please contact Kristen Gergely at [email protected].
Visit The Image Centre this winter to enjoy these exhibitions and more exciting events throughout the season!
Micro-Grants for Regent Park Entrepreneurs |
The Yonge Street Mission is supporting entrepreneurs in Regent Park with its 2025 Micro-grant Program. This initiative offers financial assistance and coaching to help individuals grow their businesses.
Program Details:
- Grant Amount: Up to $4,000 (disbursed in two payments based on progress)
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Eligibility:
- Must be a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur in Regent Park or surrounding areas
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Proficient in English and computer skills
- Involvement in YSM programs is a plus
Timeline:
- Application Deadline: January 24, 2025
- Coaching Sessions: March – May 2025 (8–10 sessions)
- Grant Interviews: May 2025
- Final Report Submission: August 2025
To apply, click here or email [email protected] for further inquiries.
TTC Summer Student Program Applications Now Open |
Hiring Now Open!
From operations to administration, the TTC offers a variety of roles for students available from May to August 2025.
Application Deadline: January 26, 2025
Eligibility Requirements:
- Students must be enrolled at a Canadian university or college for the Winter 2025 semester.
- Must be available to work full-time from May to August 2025.
How to Apply:
Visit the TTC Jobs page for more details and to submit your application.
Take advantage of this opportunity to gain valuable experience with the TTC this summer!
St. James Town Community Co-op Affordable Housing Community Meeting |
St. James Town Community Co-op invites residents to an Affordable Housing Community Meeting to discuss the proposed development at 5 Huntley and 2-8 Earl Street and ways to advocate for affordable housing and community benefits.
- Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: The Corner, 200 Wellesley Street
This gathering will provide an opportunity to connect with neighbours, enjoy snacks, and explore ways to get involved, including organizing information sessions, postering, door-knocking, deputations, signing the petition, and a press release.
For more details, contact Ana Teresa at [email protected].
SLNA’s January ReMarket |
The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 12th annual REmarket, a two-day event for recycling and donation.
Event Details:
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Dates:
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January 29, 2025 (10 AM–7 PM):
- Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
- FreeMarket: Guests can donate or take items for free (non-commercial purposes).
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January 30, 2025 (10 AM–6 PM):
- Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
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Repair Café Toronto and CultureLink Bike Hub (11 AM–3 PM):
- Repair Café: Fix clothing, jewelry, electronics, appliances, and more.
- Bike Hub: Conduct small bike repairs and safety checks.
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January 29, 2025 (10 AM–7 PM):
- Location: St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade (at Market St.)
Items Accepted:
- Recycle: Dental waste, cigarette butts, batteries, damaged textiles, disposable razors, and more.
- Donate: Household items, books, mobility aids, toys, clothing, and accessories.
For full details and accepted items, visit slna.ca/remarket-guidelines or email [email protected].
Safety Meetings for Moss Park |
The Moss Park Safety Network invites residents to a Safety Meeting for Moss Park, focusing on key issues and community-led solutions.
- Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Location: 275 Shuter Street (Bubble Room)
Topics Include:
- Community safety
- Reflections from residents and community leaders
- Community empowerment
- Addressing community isolation
- Enhancing the resident-led safety network
Additional Details:
- Refreshments will be provided.
- The first 10 people to sign up will receive raffle tickets.
For inquiries, contact:
- Leah: [email protected]
- Zenah: [email protected]
- Hanan: [email protected] or call 416-924-2543 ext. 0.
Sign-up Link: Click here or register directly with the organizers.
Street Health Coldest Night of the Year Walk |
Street Health is participating in the annual Coldest Night of the Year walk to support individuals experiencing hunger, homelessness, and hurt in the community.
- Date: Saturday, February 24, 2025
- Time: Check the event page for schedule details
- Location: Toronto Sherbourne (see link for exact details)
CNOY is a family-friendly event that raises funds for local charities serving people in need. Walkers can participate in 2 km, 5 km, or 10 km routes while raising awareness and building solidarity.
For more details or to register, visit: Coldest Night of the Year – Toronto Sherbourne.
January 11, 2025 Newlsetter
Dear Emma,
The new year has come in like a lion! We may now be facing a provincial and federal election before the month of May. Now is the time to hold on to your hats, stay informed, and get involved in your local communities.
As I’m sure you have heard by now, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he will resign. He has also prorogued, or suspended, parliament until March 24. After that date, a federal election could happen at any point, especially since both Jagmeet Singh and Pierre Polievre have said they will table non-confidence motions as soon as possible and will not vote to support the government.
The NDP have done incredible work at the federal level over the past several years, bringing dental care and pharmacare to Canadians. Our federal party did the hard work of starting up those programs to bring dental care and access to medications to those who need it the most. These programs represent the most significant expansion to our healthcare system since Medicare and bring us several steps closer to true universal healthcare. The NDP also passed the Early Learning and Child Care Act to lower the price of child care along with anti-scab and sustainable jobs legislation to protect workers. These strides would never have occurred if the NDP had not held the threat of an election over the Liberals every day. All of those measures were opposed by both Liberals and Conservatives until the NDP forced the Liberals to enact them.
However, the NDP never intended the supply and confidence agreement to last forever. Eventually, the Liberals showed their true colours, as they always do, and the NDP couldn't look past their scandals and mistakes. It is time for a new government in Ottawa, and I am so glad that the NDP has already shown the kind of caring and effective government they will be.
At the same time as all of this drama is taking place at the Federal government, President-elect Trump is threatening to slap massive 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, providing Doug Ford with the cover he needs to seek a new mandate from Ontarians and send us back to the polls. This could happen any day now, as it is advantageous to Ford to have Ontarians go to the polls before the Federal election begins. But all of this is pure speculation. Only Ford and his insiders know when Ontarians will go to the polls.
Regardless of what the government decides, the Ontario NDP caucus and I are ready to run a campaign filled with positive, practical and ready-to-go solutions. The only thing that would make our campaign in Toronto Centre better is YOU!
Campaigns run on people power. I would love to see each and every one of you out knocking on doors with me. Let’s tell your friends and family about the significant policies of the Ontario NDP. Speak out on social media about the importance of getting out the vote, especially for first time voters. Let’s work together to elect the Ontario NDP and fix the things that has been broken by 30 years of Liberal and Conservative rule in the province.
Amidst all of this turmoil, we also need to take a moment to gather with our friends and neighbours. In that spirit, I’d love for you to join me in celebrating the possibilities of the year ahead at my New Year’s Levee.
Here are the details for your calendar:
When: Sunday, January 26, 2025
Time: 2 – 4 PM
Where: Daniels Spectrum
585 Dundas Street East
Toronto, ON M5A 2B7
We’ll have a selection of refreshments and snacks. The venue is wheelchair accessible, including washrooms.
Let’s celebrate the year ahead, including the Lunar New Year, with hope, positivity, and our shared power to create change. I can’t wait to see you there.
Yours in community service,
Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
In This Newsletter |
- Jarvis Collegiate Repair Backlogs
- Supporting Small Business - Wanda’s Pie In The Sky
- 2024 in Review
- Regent Park Community Centre’s Pancake Breakfast
- Ford Fails on Housing and Homelessness
- Pride Toronto’s 2025 Theme - ALL IN!
- This Week's Meetings
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community Events
Jarvis Collegiate Repair Backlogs |
On Thursday, I returned to Jarvis Collegiate with ONDP Leader Marit Stiles and Trustee Dee Williams. Principal Stephen Bain highlighted the vibrant school community and revitalized the library and gym.
Ontario students deserve safe, fully operational and staffed schools so that they can receive the best education and learn about all career paths. I am so grateful to the principal, educators, and students we met, especially the grade 10 civics class, who are passionate about politics and asked the best questions!
We also observed important facilities that have been shut down for a decade or more, including two science labs, a greenhouse, an art room and a full industrial kitchen. Ontario’s Fiscal Watchdog, the Financial Accountability Office, warned in their December report that the Ford government was underfunding capital repairs needed in schools by $12.7 billion. What we saw at Jarvis CI is symptomatic of chronic Liberal and Conservative government underfunding in public education, leading to 85% of TDSB schools falling below the state of good repair.
Supporting Small Business - Wanda’s Pie In The Sky |
Wanda’s Pie in the Sky is a longtime and beloved bakery in Kensington Market. I’ve known the owners, David and Wanda Beaver, for years. In fact, they used to be one of my suppliers when I owned a Timothy’s World Coffee franchise on Church Street. They’re responsible business people and exceptional pie makers. So when they reached out for assistance in December to correct an issue with City Hall, I was happy to lend my support as the Small Business Critic for the Ontario NDP.
At issue was an addition built during the pandemic to provide safe distancing for indoor dining. City Hall at that time was gripped with delivering rapid responses on critical issues during the extended state of emergency. Issuing permits was not one of the urgent core functions as City Council redeployed planning, building, transportation staff to shelter, housing and public health departments to fight the spread of COVID-19.
Caught in the middle of all this was Wanda’s Pie in the Sky who has been ordered to take down an expensive addition. Except the City’s notices were sent to their landlord and property owner but never forwarded to Wanda’s Pie as the commercial tenants. I asked David and Wanda not to tear down the addition, so we can work with the City to find an alternative solution. Thanks to Mayor Olivia Chow’s personal involvement, City staff will now be working with Wanda’s Pie to conditionally approve the addition. This is a big win! Thank you to everyone who came out to sign the petition, call their Councillor, enjoy a slice of pie, and support Wanda’s Pie in the Sky. It’s a great Toronto news story for the start of 2025!
2024 in Review |
2024 was a huge year, and I am so proud of all we have accomplished together as a community. At the end of last year, my team and I put together a year in review to capture all of the big events. You can view the entire thing here.
A few of my favourite moments of the year include when we:
- Moved second reading of the Gender Affirming Healthcare Act (which Ford voted down)
- My Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act passed second reading after Ford was forced to support it by community pressure
- Helped to save St. Bartholomew’s Children’s Centre
- Ontario NDP cracked open the Greenbelt scandal, revealing that Ford’s office used codewords to avoid detection
- Supported St James Town tenants through flooding, power outages, and landlord negligence
- Fought Ford’s sudden closure of the Ontario Science Centre, removing fencing by hand
- Worked alongside the community to bring Rastafest to Regent Park
- Listened to 100+ expert witnesses who affirm IPV is an epidemic in Ontario
- Rode my bike from Toronto to Montreal in support of HIV/AIDs research
- Lead community consultations around the Our London Family Act and countering Islamophobia
- Hosted a Small Business Roundtable to hear directly from business owners about the support they need
- Hosted a massive National Housing Day event at Queen’s Park, bringing over 200 advocates together
- Tabled my bill to fix Ontario’s tribunal backlog at the Landlord Tenant Board
I am looking forward to everything that 2025 has in store! I know it will be a year of bringing community voices forward, fighting for access to justice, and bringing forward new ideas to make our neighbourhoods stronger.
Regent Park Community Centre’s Pancake Breakfast |
Thank you to the City staff and volunteers at the Regent Park Community Centre for cooking up a delicious pancake and waffle breakfast for the neighbourhood. It was so much fun to make waffles and chat with everyone who attended.
The breakfast was about connection, community, and belonging for everyone during the winter season. Let’s keep showing up for one another this new year - it's what community is all about!
Ford Fails on Housing and Homelessness |
On Thursday, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) published its Municipalities Under Pressure Report, a searing indictment of the conservative government’s inaction on homelessness.
We in Toronto Centre know the realities of encampments and homelessness. We see our neighbours out in the cold every day. Each person sleeping unsheltered is a failure of government, and yet this conservative government doesn’t have any concrete plan to tackle homelessness. I have asked the government over and over to produce this plan, and they have refused.
The number of unhoused Ontarians grew by 25% over the past two years, with more than 81,000 people identified as experiencing homelessness in 2024. Without significant intervention, that number is expected to triple by 2035.
A future in which hundreds of thousands of people live without stable housing should be unimaginable in a province as prosperous as Ontario, but instead, it is a very real possibility.
Luckily, the Ontario NDP does have a homelessness plan and is committed to making meaningful investments in mental health care, taking back provincial responsibility for shelters and homelessness prevention programs, and building affordable and supportive housing.
Pride Toronto’s 2025 Theme - ALL IN! |
This week, Pride Toronto announced their Pride 2025 theme: ALL IN! You can watch the announcement video here.
I am so excited about this theme, which brings solidarity and community connection to the forefront of our pride celebration. This unity is something we need now more than ever as the alt-right tries to separate LGB people from their Trans and Non-binary siblings. A threat to one of us is a threat to all of us, and we must stand strong together.
I can’t wait to celebrate pride together in June, emphasizing love, solidarity, and joy!
This Week's Meetings |
- Rainbow Health Ontario
- Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
- The Harm Reduction Collective
- FAIR Association
This Week's Headlines |
After refusal to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic, PCs curtail study
YorkRegion.com reporters wrote about intimate partner violence in 2024 in response to local murders
TTC board debating 2025 budget that's set to freeze fares, increase service | CBC News
Norovirus cases are on the rise. Here's what you need to know about this nasty bug | CBC Radio
CBC investigation uncovers grocers overcharging customers by selling underweighted meat
Huge tent next to Toronto landmark may finally come down after a decade
Upcoming Community Events |
NIP’s Rosedale Heights School of the Arts Workshops |
Neighbourhood Information Post is offering exciting workshops at Rosedale Heights School of the Arts for youth under 18. Participants can explore ceramics, filmmaking, printmaking, and photography in two after-school sessions:
- Dates: January 14, 2025, and February 4, 2025
- Time: 4:30 to 7 PM
- Location: Rosedale Heights School of the Arts, 711 Bloor St E, Toronto, ON M4W 1J4
Transportation and a gift certificate will be provided, with all supplies offered by the school. For more details, contact Seyon at 416-924-2543 x0.
Artreach Info Session: Community Arts Programming Grant |
ArtReach invites Toronto-based arts programmers aged 13–29 to attend an info session for the 2025 Community Arts Programming Grant. This session will provide guidance on grant applications and strengthen submissions.
Details:
- Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
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Time: 6–8 PM
- 6–7 PM: Overview of guidelines and Q&A
- 7–8 PM: Walkthrough of the application package
- Location: Online via Zoom
The grant application deadline is February 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM. For more information, visit artreach.org/workshops.
YSM's Micro-Grants for Regent Park Entrepreneurs |
The Yonge Street Mission is supporting entrepreneurs in Regent Park with its 2025 Micro-grant Program. This initiative offers financial assistance and coaching to help individuals grow their businesses.
Program Details:
- Grant Amount: Up to $4,000 (disbursed in two payments based on progress)
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Eligibility:
- Must be a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur in Regent Park or surrounding areas
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Proficient in English and computer skills
- Involvement in YSM programs is a plus
Timeline:
- Application Deadline: January 24, 2025
- Coaching Sessions: March – May 2025 (8–10 sessions)
- Grant Interviews: May 2025
- Final Report Submission: August 2025
To apply, click here or email [email protected] for further inquiries.
SLNA’s January ReMarket |
The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 12th annual REmarket, a two-day event for recycling and donation.
Event Details:
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Dates:
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January 29, 2025 (10 AM–7 PM):
- Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
- FreeMarket: Guests can donate or take items for free (non-commercial purposes).
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January 30, 2025 (10 AM–6 PM):
- Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
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Repair Café Toronto and CultureLink Bike Hub (11 AM–3 PM):
- Repair Café: Fix clothing, jewelry, electronics, appliances, and more.
- Bike Hub: Conduct small bike repairs and safety checks.
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January 29, 2025 (10 AM–7 PM):
- Location: St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade (at Market St.)
Items Accepted:
- Recycle: Dental waste, cigarette butts, batteries, damaged textiles, disposable razors, and more.
- Donate: Household items, books, mobility aids, toys, clothing, and accessories.
For full details and accepted items, visit slna.ca/remarket-guidelines or email [email protected].