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Dear friend,

This week, Jagmeet Singh officially tore up the Federal NDP’s Supply and Confidence Agreement with the Liberals. New Democrats worked hard and pushed Liberals to make life better for Canadians through this agreement. 

This doesn’t mean we are about to have a federal election ​— it means New Democrats are sending a clear signal about the progressive changes we need to see from the government over the year ahead. But lately, Liberals have shown themselves to be weak and self-serving again. Liberals caved to corporate interests when they forced binding arbitration on rail workers. Their union called on railway companies to address the labour shortage, which forced rail workers to work longer days under unsafe conditions and further away from home.

Liberals won’t be able to stand up to the Conservatives, who just want to make cuts to our public systems and enrich corporate insiders.

The Supply and Confidence agreement served Canadians well, bringing us real wins for people, like the national dental care program for millions of Canadians without coverage, ten paid sick days for federally regulated workplaces, long-awaited anti-scab legislation, and the beginnings of the national pharmacare program and national school lunch program.

The NDP has set the national agenda despite not being in government, which is an incredible achievement — my federal colleagues should be proud. But now it is time for something new. Without the agreement, Jagmeet will leverage this announcement to push the Liberals harder to do more to support Canadian families.

A federal election is coming, and Canadians will have a choice between Pierre Poilievre’s cuts and the hope and relief that Jagmeet and the NDP offer. This is a powerful moment but also an exciting one. 

It is certainly exciting for Samantha Green, the Federal NDP candidate for Toronto Centre. If you don’t know Samantha already, she is a family doctor and climate activist raising her family in Moss Park. She is a force.

I look forward to everyone meeting Samantha and experiencing her care and passion for everything in life. She will make an incredible MP and bring community voices to Ottawa.

In addition to this national news, there is local excitement: this weekend is festival weekend in Toronto Centre!

I will be at the Cabbagetown Festival, the St James Town Festival, and Rastafest in Regent Park on Saturday and the Cabbagetown Festival again on Sunday! Look out for our orange tent, where my team and I will give away fun swag, including our popular tote bags. Drop by and tell us about the issues you want your provincial government to take action on. If you want to join us – even better! You can sign up to volunteer at our booths here! Please note that Parliament Street north of Gerrard and sections of Carlton St will be accessible only by pedestrians for the festival. Please plan your visit accordingly. Hope to see you there!

Have a safe and wonderful weekend,

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Fighting for Public Healthcare? Very Demure
• Labour Day Parade
• Volunteer with Us: Cabbagetown and St James Town Festivals
• My Nomination Meeting!
• Our London Family Act - Have Your Say
• You’re Invited: Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration
• International Overdose Awareness Day
• Ontario NDP Caucus Retreat
• Toronto Dragon Festival
• Conservatives’ Failure on Healthcare
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

I couldn’t resist jumping on the “Demure” social trend to brag about how the Ontario NDP is working to protect public healthcare—and especially our frontline nurses—from cuts and privatization. I hope you find this silly video “very mindful.”

Workers are unstoppable when they are united! I was thrilled to march in another amazing Labour Day Parade with Marit Stiles and workers this past Monday. 

With the cost of living crisis and cuts to the public services people count on, we need the labour movement more than ever.

Over the past year, workers across Ontario have taken to the picket line to fight and win better wages and safer working conditions. Labour Day is a day to celebrate these accomplishments, but our work is not over.

People across the province are struggling with the rising cost of living and the skyrocketing cost of housing. Women and racialized workers are still more likely to be working precarious jobs for less pay and fewer benefits. Our healthcare system is being broken down and privatized by the Ford government. 

The lessons of the past century can guide us to a brighter future in the face of these challenges. On Labour Day and every day, New Democrats are proud to stand with Ontario’s workers in solidarity, determination, and hope.

The St James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals, as well as Rastafest Regent Park, are happening TOMORROW!  All three will take place on Saturday, September 7, and the Cabbagetown Festival spans the whole weekend, continuing until Sunday, September 8. My team will be setting up community tables in Cabbagetown and St James Town, and we need your help to collect petition signatures on critical issues and hand out fun swag!

Volunteering at these festivals is a great time to connect with the community, spread the word about important provincial issues, and enjoy a beautiful weekend with friends.

Volunteer with us! 

We have shifts at 11 AM, 2 PM, 4 PM and 4:30 PM on September 7 and 8.

When can you join us?

Speculation about Ford calling an early election is getting louder. He will do anything to get ahead of the RCMP criminal investigation into his Greenbelt corruption. And we will do everything to be ready for a snap election. 

You are invited! My nomination meeting to be your next Toronto Centre Ontario NDP candidate will be on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 6:30 PM. Special guests and live music will be at The Aviary at 484 Front Street East in the beautiful Canary District. Join us for a memorable night.

I am thrilled to partner with Neighbourhood Information Post to celebrate the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival with you.

Join us on Friday, September 13, from 3-6 PM in the Community Room at 150 River Street. The celebration is FREE, and all are welcome! 

Attendees will enjoy colourful lantern-making, moon cakes, hot drinks and food, and door prizes. 

I hope to see you there! Please RSVP here.

The Our London Family Act was first introduced in 2021 by London MPPs after the horrific murder of the Afzaal family. This new law, if passed, would make changes to stop Islamophobia in Ontario. We are asking for your input before it is re-introduced to ensure it continues to propose the solutions that will keep Muslim communities safe. I hope you can join and share feedback. 

Where: Banquet Hall, 402 Shuter St, Toronto.

When: Thursday, September 19, 6:30 PM – 8 PM

Refreshments will be provided.

Last Saturday, I was honoured to speak at the flag-raising ceremony for Overdose Awareness Day at Toronto City Hall. The Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention Toronto and Flags of Hope hosted us, two organizations that do excellent overdose awareness work all year round.

Every Overdose Awareness Day is full of grief for the people we have lost. Still, this one had an extra layer of heaviness as communities work overtime to preserve life-saving services that Ford has abruptly cancelled. I will stand with the community and fight for the evidence-based mental health care and addiction services, including harm reduction health services, that our communities deserve. 

Addictions can impact absolutely anyone. When it comes to making lives better and easier, we need to lead with support, not stigma.

This week, I attended the Ontario NDP Caucus Retreat in Windsor, where Marit Stiles and our caucus laid out our goals for the upcoming legislative session (by prioritizing housing, healthcare, and reducing the cost of living). We have been preparing for all possible election timelines since Ford could call a snap election between this fall and June 2026. Doug Ford has publicly said there will be no election this fall, but he could always change his mind and reserve course as we have seen him do many times before. So we need to continue to be ready for all possibilities. 

Last weekend, I was thrilled to attend the Toronto Dragon Festival, which celebrates the rich heritage of Chinese performing arts. This successful festival saw participation from 50 performing arts groups and 80 vendors taking over Nathan Philips Square. It was a sight to behold.

The Canadian Association for Chinese Performing Arts did an incredible job hosting and sharing traditional Chinese art with Torontonians of all backgrounds. This event allowed artists to share their talents and connect with new audiences across Toronto.

This week, the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU) released a report revealing a five-fold shortfall between the hospital capacity required by 2032 and the Ford government’s ten-year plan. 

The government has said over and over again that it plans to add 3,000 staffed hospital beds in Ontario by 2032, a number that sounds impressive until you look at the data and see that we will actually need 15,000 additional beds by that time. 

It is not news that this government has been deliberately underfunding our healthcare system, leaving Ontarians without the care they need and deserve. Healthcare should be based on needs, not means. For years, governments have ignored the growing crisis, pretending it doesn’t exist while hospitals close, nurses are driven out of the profession, and hallway healthcare worsens.

Healthcare is Ontario’s backbone, our pride and joy, but under conservative leadership, our healthcare professionals are leaving for other provinces, and our system is unrecognizable. It's time for real action and substantial investments so Ontarians can finally receive the care they deserve.

Two years after Ontario legalized virtual casinos, gambling addicts say the province has made it nearly impossible to quit – even when they want to

Ontario dropped wastewater testing early, with no plan for feds to step in: documents

Toronto inspectors scrambled to respond to Ontario Science Centre shutdown: documents | CTV News 

Would commercial rent control protect small businesses in Canada? | CBC News 

American rental price fixing tech still in use in Canada after U.S. lawsuits

Rastafest invites the community to a vibrant celebration at Regent Park, hosted at the Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas Street East) on Saturday, September 7th, 2024 -- TOMORROW!

This free event will feature live performances by Jay Douglas, Nana McLean, Otis Gayle, Shanty Sweets, and Gavin Williamson.

• Time:
  • Children & Youth Activities, Food, and Craft Vendors: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Live Concert: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Music by: DJ Chocolate & Black Heart iNiversal

Please note, the event has been moved indoors. It promises an exciting lineup of activities for all ages.

The Friends of Allan Gardens are excited to present the new Community Market Series this September! 

Each Saturday, from 11 AM to 3 PM, the Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory and the new Teaching Garden will host themed markets featuring unique finds and fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Allan Gardens Children's Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 117 Carlton Street.

Join your BENA Operations Committee at the Bishop and Belcher on September 10 at 6:30 PM for their third Annual Social!

Please RSVP to [email protected] by Friday September 6.

See the poster attached for further details or visit their website here.

The Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/Multicultural Women Against Rape (TRCC/MWAR) invites the community to the 40th annual Take Back the Night on Thursday, September 12. This event honours survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and state violence, including police brutality and other forms of institutional oppression.

Event Details:

• Rally: 6 PM
• March: 7 PM
• Location: Christie Pits Park, 750 Bloor Street West
• Theme: 40 Years of Reclaiming the Streets

This year’s march continues the movement’s dedication to decolonisation and resistance against settler colonialism and heteropatriarchy. Let’s come together to celebrate survivorship, resiliency, empowerment, healing, and activism.

The event is wheelchair accessible and includes ASL interpretation. It is open to everyone and is a queer and trans-positive space.

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Marshall or Accessibility Team (Training dates: September 5 and 10)

For more information, visit the TRCC/MWAR website.

The Foundation for Environmental Stewardship (FES) is offering grants through its "Funding for Net-Zero" program to support student-led projects to reduce emissions in schools across Canada. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 are available for students in grades 6-12 who are ready to take action for a sustainable future. This initiative provides students with hands-on experiences and education related to achieving net-zero emissions.

The application deadline is September 12, and FES encourages educators and youth across the country to apply.

The City of Toronto is inviting residents to provide input on implementing a new renovictions bylaw modelled after successful initiatives in other cities across Canada.

In June, Toronto City Council directed City staff to create a bylaw in response to the growing trend of renovictions in Toronto, where a landlord illegitimately evicts a tenant by alleging that vacant possession of the rental unit is required to make renovations or repairs, leading to situations where landlords increase rents significantly or refuse to allow tenants to return to their homes. This results in the displacement of tenants, the permanent loss of affordable rental housing, and contributes to rising homelessness in Toronto.

To inform the development of the bylaw, the City is engaging with tenants, landlords, and residents impacted by renovictions. Staff will report back to the Planning and Housing Committee with a proposed renovictions bylaw in October.

Online survey

Residents are encouraged to share their insights and experiences by completing the online survey on the City's website by Monday, September 30.

Drop-in sessions

The City is also hosting in-person and virtual consultation meetings: 

City-wide Online Session

Date: Monday, September 9

Time: 7 to 8.30 PM

Zoom Online Meeting: Click the link or join by phone at 647-374-4685

Meeting ID: 369 644 7895

Passcode: 740975

Downtown Toronto

Date: Friday, September 13

Time: 1:30 to 3.30 PM

Location: 55 John Street – Rotunda (main floor)

More information on the Renovictions Policy Implementation report is available on the City’s website.

The Toronto Newcomer Council invites refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers to the "Empowerment Through Employment: Refugees and Newcomers Career Navigation Seminar 2024" on September 13-14 at 163 Queen Street East. This event will connect participants with employers, training institutions, and service agencies, offering valuable insights into the Canadian job market.

Event Highlights:

• Panel Discussions & Q&A Sessions: Explore challenges and opportunities in the Canadian labour market.
• Workshops: Hands-on training in resume writing, cover letter preparation, and interview techniques.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with employers and fellow job seekers.
• Exhibition Booths: Engage with organizations showcasing employment resources.
• Expert Talks: Gain career navigation advice from professionals.

Attendees can meet potential employers, enhance job readiness skills, and access tailored employment programs. Register here to secure a spot.

Walk with Grassy Narrows youth and community members to show that you are with them on their path to achieve mercury justice and freedom!

Date: September 18, 2024

Time: 12 PM

Location: Downtown Toronto, details TBD

Sign up: Click here to register

This is a family-friendly event. Rain or shine!

The Young Politicians invites all youth to the Youth Civic and Political Forum on September 21 at Toronto City Hall. This event is an opportunity for young minds to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore solutions to issues facing Toronto. Join like-minded peers and renowned leaders to explore, initiate, and debate on civic and political matters. For more details, click here.

Wildlands League and Mushkegowuk Council are delighted to present Tawich in the City, where Indigenous music meets science meets art and much more.

Tawich* has been a hidden gem until now. This one night only event will connect your heart, soul, and mind to Canada's great inland sea and its incredible people!

You will see astonishing wildlife footage by the award-winning Water Brothers and hear from the Omushkego leaders like Mushkegowuk Council’s Deputy Grand Chief Natasha Martin, Peawanuck’s Sam Hunter, and Juno Award winner Lawrence Martin, who is galvanizing the protection of his peoples’ sacred lands and waters.

September 25, 2024 | 7:00 PM

• Tikcets: $55.00+
• Venue: Koerner Hall
• Genre: Art & Conversation, Indigenous Music
• Presenter: Wildlands League & Mushkegowuk Council

Seniors for Climate invites the community to join their nationwide movement for urgent climate action. Fossil fuel emissions continue to fuel devastating fires, floods, and extreme weather. On October 1, seniors across Canada will stand in solidarity with youth, urging the federal government to take immediate steps towards renewable energy expansion and the end of fossil fuel burning.

Toronto Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 1
• Time: 1:30 PM
• Location: Rally at University Avenue and Armoury

March to the Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square

Notable speakers include David Phillips, David Suzuki, and Lillian Allen. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, and masks are welcome.

This event is part of a larger initiative by the Seniors for Climate project, featuring over 50 events across Canada.

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, October 9:
  • FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
• Thursday, October 10:
  • Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewellery, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
  • CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.

The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.

Do you know of an exemplary project, group or person who has shown leadership, commitment and the best practice in heritage conservation this past year? Help the Ontario Heritage Trust recognize and celebrate them by submitting a nomination for the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Awards.

Nomination deadline: October 11, 2024

This year, the Indigenous Legacy Gathering will take place over four days at Nathan Philips Square, starting on September 27 and culminating in the unveiling of the Spirit Garden on Orange Shirt Day, September 30.

Stay tuned for details on vendor applications, which will be released soon. Check the event website for updates and more information.

Dear Neighbour,

This week brought heavy news for people in Toronto Centre and across Ontario when the Ford government announced that they were closing 10 of 17 provincially approved consumption and treatment sites (CTS). Let’s unpack this backwards announcement. 

Substance abuse is a health issue and supervised consumption is a proven, evidence-based intervention that can prevent overdose amid a deadly crisis that has already claimed thousands of lives across Ontario. The Ford government’s own expert review of sites did not recommend closing any sites. Just like when Ford ignored his own expert housing panel — the housing crisis deepened. Now he is covering up his own CTS safety report and doing the opposite of what his health professionals recommended. 

As said before, ‘without supervised consumption sites, our whole city becomes an unsupervised consumption site’. Health professionals anticipate that things are about to get significantly worse and more visible when the CTS are closed.

Ontario’s framework for addressing the overdose crisis was never perfect — it was an underfunded patchwork of emergency responses. CTS is a health and referral service that should be funded to operate 24/7 and right-sized so people are not kicked out at closing time and left on the streets without other options — Ford did not even attempt this. The cap on sites that Ford himself created in 2019 forced people to access harm reduction at a limited number of facilities with restricted hours. This led to unhoused individuals using drugs in public spaces when they had nowhere to go. This is something we will see even more of when sites are closed suddenly.

By failing to invest in mental health services and supportive housing, sites that were making referrals were knee-capped by the social safety net that Ford kept broken. People had no other options when they couldn’t access housing and mental health services or addiction recovery treatment beds.

 Ford could have chosen policies that would have actually improved safety around supervised consumption sites like:

• Funding CTS to operate 24-hours-a-day so that users are not kicked out at random hours.
• Guaranteeing 24-hour access to shelter and emergency addiction treatment beds.
• Funding safety and well-being plans for service areas.
• Integrating micro-sites into health care centres to facilitate safer access, counseling, easy referrals, and prevent the overcrowding of extremely traumatized people into fewer options.
• Investing in sufficient supportive and deeply affordable housing to transition patients out of chronic homelessness, where it is unbelievably challenging to escape addiction. 

Ford chose stigma over support. While I welcome any new investment in health care, the 375 beds he is committing to creating by diverting funding will not end the overdose and poisoned drug supply crisis. This is all made worse with Ford’s privatization agenda and I predict that he will continue to take public money to enrich private, for profit companies. Nor do I believe that 375 recovery beds would be adequate for Toronto Centre alone — much less the entire province of Ontario. 

My heart is especially heavy for everyone working in health care and harm reduction who will face the frontline consequences of Ford’s decision. Hospital emergency room staff, first responders and harm reduction workers are tired and burnt-out. They have buried too many patients, community members, and friends. In particular, harm reduction workers have carried on despite the odds, grief, and pain — it is impossible to face a seemingly unending torrent of death and be hit hard by callous attacks from the Premier. I will continue to stand with you, lift up your stories, and fight to make Ontario a province where healing and recovery from addiction is not just possible — but common and widespread. 

You can sign my petition calling on Ford to adequately invest in this health care crisis here. When the house resumes, I will deliver the petition and the names of everyone who signed it to Ford's desk in the Legislature.

On another note, this week I have been made aware of disruptive noise coming from the Metrolinx Don Yards construction site in our riding. The noises range from augers banging to concrete pouring throughout the night and into the morning. I have been in contact with many of the residents in the area about the severity of the noise and how it has been impacting the health and well being of community members. 

Our office has been in communication with Metrolinx every day since we have received complaints from residents. I have asked for daily updates about the status of the noise mitigation measures, and we continue to ask them for adjustments to their construction schedule so that there is no disruption to residents while they sleep. While Metrolinx has been responsive, I continue to push them for answers and modifications on behalf of residents. 

It is imperative that if you have concerns about how the construction is impacting your life, please bring them to my office’s attention by emailing [email protected], as well as to Metrolinx directly at [email protected]. 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Save the date! Nomination meeting announced!
• Have your say in the St. James Town Act
• AMO 2024
• Ontario Attacks Growth Plan for the Golden Horseshoe
• Ford boasts about ‘modern’ courthouse that isn’t even accessible
• Critic Portfolio Surveys
• 77 Howard St. Update
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

Speculation about Ford calling a snap election is swirling. And we will be ready to meet his challenge. 

My nomination meeting to be your next Toronto Centre Ontario NDP candidate will be on Thursday September 26, 2024. We can't let Ford's corruption and regressive policies go unchallenged. I have proven myself to be a strong defender of our democracy and province. From reversing Ford’s Greenbelt giveaway and Bill 124 to standing up for Toronto residents and small businesses. From fighting for justice, public health care, education, Ontario Place and the Ontario Science Centre, I have done what I always do - represent Toronto Centre with all my heart, dignity and strength. 

We need to show that Ontario’s New Democrats have the passion, experience, and community support to win. There will be many special guests, live music and great food. By uniting progressives across the riding and province, we will and must defeat Ford Conservatives in the next election.

You are invited to join me at my nomination meeting:

Date: September 26, 2024

Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: The Aviary, 484 Front St E (near Bayview Ave)

Six years after the fire at 650 Parliament Street, bad landlords are still getting away with negligence that threatens tenants’ lives. Tenants at 77 Howard are out thousands of dollars because the same landlord continued to fail to keep their property in a state of good repair.

The St. James Town Act proposes an elegant solution to a systemic and ongoing problem. It emerged from deep conversation with tenant leaders across St. James Town and Ontario. But we are now six years into Ford’s anti-tenant government, and we need to ensure that it will continue to meet the moment. I welcome all feedback on this proposed bill through my survey!

Residents at 77 Howard are still struggling with the aftermath of the heavy rain on July 16 that led to damaged apartments, shared spaces, and facilities like their onsite laundry room. This week, a tenant from the building shared a video with me documenting the severity of the destruction to their apartment and disruption of their lives. 

While our office awaits the incident report from the City that will give us a better sense of the structural damage and what maintenance work could have be done to prevent undue hardship, these residents continue to pick up the pieces to rebuild their lives. The property owner, WPSQ maintains this was a “natural” disaster and refuses to offer rent abatement of other financial support to help residents recoup their losses. Check out the damage cause by this so-called natural disaster below:

This week a major annual conference called the Association of Municipalities in Ontario (AMO) took place. This gathering is like a family retreat for the multiple levels orders of government in Ontario to discuss shared challenges and how to best solve them. Marit Stiles and Ontario New Democrats joined putting our best foot forward by announcing a new deal for cities and Northern Ontario communities

Marit Stiles announced a detailed and comprehensive plan aimed at reversing decades of underfunding and neglect across our province and especially in Northern Ontario. 

Key aspects of the Ontario NDP’s plan include:

• UPLOADING back provincial financial responsibility for affordable housing, shelters, and homelessness prevention programs, while maintaining locally focused delivery by municipal service managers.
• RESTORING 50% provincial funding for municipal transit net operational costs.
• Building affordable homes through Homes Ontario — the Ontario NDP’s plan to provide significant new provincial investments in public, non-profit and co-op housing.
• Fair cost-sharing between municipal and provincial governments to stabilize municipal finances.

Too many Ontarians feel that their elected representatives give them excuses for why vital city services are under-funded — ENOUGH. 

An Ontario NDP government will restore provincial funding where we need it so you can get services — and not excuses.

This week, Ford’s Minister for Creating Excuses that Perpetuate the Housing Crisis Paul Calandra announced that Ontario will repeal the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. This will harm Ontario’s environment and our ability to tackle the housing crisis.

Instead of focusing on building affordable, sustainable housing in existing neighbourhoods, this government is paving the way for more sprawling developments over limited farmland and delicate wildlife habitats. The Growth Plan helped coordinate how cities grow in the Golden Horseshoe to minimize damage to our surrounding farmland and wildlife. Scrapping the growth plan won’t help fight the housing crisis because the McMansions Ford wants to build are not the tool we need to fight the affordability crisis. Ontario New Democrats will oppose Ford’s short-sighted changes and fight for smart housing investments that actually build deeply affordable and supportive housing with real rent control.

I have created four surveys spanning the three ministerial portfolios I am responsible for including one to cover community safety as that is a priority issue for the City of Toronto and Toronto Centre. If you have general feedback that doesn’t fall into these buckets you can still provide that information through the ONDP’s general consultation survey here.

Please share my surveys with anyone in your networks who would be interested!

We will be back at the Cabbagetown and St. James Town Festivals tabling on the weekend of September 7, 2024. We would love all the volunteer help we can get engaging our neighbours. Sign up below.

Saturday September 7, 2024

Sunday September 8, 2024

It’s disappointing to be having this conversation in 2024 — all major new buildings should be accessible. But disability advocates are saying they are tripping over how long the list of problems is with Ontario’s new billion-dollar courthouse on Armoury St. 

How did we get here? I’ve toured this courthouse with workers and have some insights. First, the government sidelined workers from the development of the new courthouse. Second, the government refused to listen to the unions representing court workers as they advocated about accessibility AND safety problems in the new building. Third, Ford’s Minister of the Attorney General stuffed cotton into his ears so that he could not hear the chorus of community voices giving him free advice on how to fix what is wrong with the courthouse. Disability advocates have posted videos showing how wayfinding routes installed to help people who walk with a stick navigate were hard to follow, occasionally randomly stopped, and that brail signs are sometimes incomplete or wrong.

I will continue supporting community voices demanding the government do their job and ensure our new courthouse meets basic accessibility standards for disabled Ontarians.

• Ford government's deadly closure of safe consumption sites spells disaster for Ontario’s overdose epidemic
• Ontario municipal leaders call for new law to address harassment 
• Finding a job is tough when you have a disability, and Ontario's revamped employment system isn't helping
• Ontario to ask province to name intimate partner violence an epidemic
• Toronto wants more family-sized condos. Here's why what's being built just doesn't work 
• Killing growth plan for Greater Golden Horseshoe is a disaster for Ontario's environment
• Jarring survey results reveal worsening mental health among Ontario youth 
• Ontario and GTA traffic expected to slow to 20 km/h due to construction 
• Ontario health minister went against review recommendations on consumption sites 
• People will die: Toronto Board of Health Chair denounces plans to close supervised consumption sites 
• Electoral College Projected Averages this week

Have you ever wondered what it is like inside an Overdose Prevention Site but never had the chance to learn? South Riverdale Community Health invites you to their Moss Park Overdose Prevention Site Open House on August 26th from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at 134 Sherbourne St. Join South Riverdale Community Health’s team for an informative and engaging afternoon featuring Naloxone training, a safe needle disposal demonstration, and a site tour. Learn more about how their services can support our community. Before you go, please RSVP at [email protected].

Community members are invited to join the International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) Flag-Raising Ceremony for 2024. It will take place on August 31st at 11:00 A.M. at Toronto City Hall. 

The event is supported by organizations like Black CAP, CACVO/ACCHO, Families for Addiction Recovery, and others committed to this cause.

The event aims to raise awareness about overdose deaths and highlight that they are preventable. It also seeks to support the fight against the stigma associated with substance use and overdose.

Attendees are encouraged to add the name of their loved ones to the IOAD Commemorative Canvas.

This year Rastafest is coming to Regent Park on Saturday, September 7 from 1 PM to 5 PM! Please come by to enjoy live music, vendors, and celebrate Rastafarian culture in its entirety. 

Me and my team will be hosting a table, so please stop by to say hello and pick up a tote bag!

Louis March’s family are hosting a community celebration to honour and share loving memories of Louis. It's going to be an afternoon of music, spoken word, dance, inspiration and reflection on Elder Louis’ legacy of tireles advocacy against gun violence and youth empowerment. The event will take place this coming Sunday August 25, 2024 at 1 PM in the St. Lawrence centre for the Arts, 27 Front Street East.

Please RSVP here to attend. 

Samantha Green, our federal NDP candidate in Toronto, is out knocking on doors every week. You can join her by signing up for her upcoming shifts. 

Drop by Sunday in the Park festival from 1 PM to 5 PM, happening this Sunday, August 25 at 600 Dundas Street East. There will be free BBQ with halal and vegetarian options, as well as family friendly activities, local vendors and live entertainment.

Join New Democrats this Labour Day! Sign up below.

Dixon Hall is launching their Farmers’ Market flyer market. This unique market works on the “Pay What You Can” model.

Dates: Every other Thursday (Aug 29, Sept 12, Sept 26)

Time: 3 PM until sold out! 

Location: 190 Carlton Street

Farmers Market Quick Facts:

• PWYC Model: Choose your price, from $5 to $20, ensuring everyone can access fresh food.
• Community Engagement: Enjoy fresh produce, lively activities, and music, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Dixon Hall needs volunteers to help them organize the market; help out today!

Date: Every Wednesday, from July 3 – September 4, 2024

Location: The Big Park | Bake Oven

Time: 5 - 8 PM

Learn more here.

Dates: Mondays-Thursdays, July 8 – August 29

Times: 3:30 - 5:30 PM 

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart this summer for drop-in summer arts programming! Children, youth and family arts will run Mondays-Thursdays (note that some Thursdays will be Family Field Trips days and may start earlier - please enquire)! 

A one-time application is required. Click here or email us at [email protected] for the application. 

This summer, participants will explore painting, sculpture, paper crafts, and more! Nourishing snacks and refreshments are provided.

Seniors Program (55+)

Date: Every Monday 

Time: 10 AM - 12:45 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Adults Program (16+)

Date: Every Wednesday

Time: 5:30 - 8:30 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart for our year-round open art studio for adults and seniors! Participants are welcome to attend both sessions. 

Enjoy an open, welcoming environment to meet like-minded creative people! Warm meals are provided during programming.

From Aki Studios comes In my Own Little Corner! In this award winning “outstanding new play”, Carly Neis explores the mess, beauty, grief, joy and care of an unexpected friendship stitched together by the love of music and a shared longing to be acknowledged as artists, creators, and “normal” humans.

If you are interested in checking out some local theatre in an accessible, immersive experience, you can buy tickets for performances from August 23 to September 1, 2024 here.

Art à la Carte provides Ontario artists with the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents with visitors to the In Camera Dining Room at the Legislative Building. Selected artwork will be featured in an exhibit for one year. It is not a requirement that artwork is for sale; however, if it is, interested buyers will be connected with the artist.

Applications will be accepted from July 10 to August 25, 2024. Check out the link for eligibility, the application form here!

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program offers grants to Toronto residents who are behind on their hydro payments and receive support from Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This initiative is a collaboration between the City of Toronto, Neighbourhood Information Post (NIP), and partner agencies.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Residency: Must live in Toronto
• Income: Must meet low-income guidelines
• Utility Bills: Must have a recent “past due” Toronto Hydro bill or a disconnection notice from the utility provider
• Additional Requirements: Must meet other program criteria

Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee grant approval, and additional documentation may be required.

Learn more here.

Did you know that Wellesley Community Centre has a new indoor pool? And it’s FREE to use EVERY DAY!

• Wellesley pool offers FREE drop-in access to all ages:
• Open leisure swim
• Aaquafit classes
• ️Lane swimming
• ️Women's only leisure swim
• ️2SLGBTQ+ friendly inclusive leisure swim

Check out the schedules here

Join The Circle of Cedar Singers for 2 Spirit Healing Drumming sessions:

• Dates: Tuesdays from July 23 to October 29
• Time: 6 - 7:30 PM
• Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church St.

All are welcome to watch or join in (bring your own drum). For more details, email [email protected].

Join the St. James Town Community Corner for the St. James Town Festival 2024, celebrating with the theme "Greener and Safer: Reviving and Rebuilding Relationships."

Enjoy fun activities, performances, community awards, cultural foods, and a variety of vendors at this year’s St James Town Festival! 

• Date: Saturday, September 7
• Time: 1 - 7 PM
• Location: Ontario Street, north of Wellesley Street East

For more information or questions, email [email protected].

Dear Neighbour,

Ford's Education Minister Todd Smith stepped down today, shocking everyone — and turning up the dial on speculation of an early election.

This is suspicious. Todd Smith had recently been promoted to being the Education Minister. The Queen's Park rumour mill is alleging that he was unhappy having been moved from energy to education — but these excuses have more holes than Ford's social safety net. 

I see merit in theories that the work and responsibility of an early election led to him wanting out.

This is especially strange after news broke this week with the impending announcement of a new child care funding formula. Todd Smith was supposed to be the salesperson for this new plan.

Ford has shuffled his cabinet. The new Education Minister is Jill Dunlop. Nolan Quinn is replacing her as the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Kevin Holland has become the new Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products as part of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Graham McGregor has been made the new Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform as part of the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

After uncertainty, foot-dragging, and question-dodging by the Ford government, a new clear formula will allow small businesses to plan and count on government funding as Ontario attempts to realize the federal government’s $10-a-day child care commitment. 

Ford is instead planning to cap costs at $22-a-day. While we are waiting for more details, what we know does not meet the moment — it does not include a clear plan (or the necessary funding) to recruit, train, and retain child care sector workers. 

When it comes to child care, the child care workforce is everything. Having well-trained, fairly paid child care workers means better child care. It will allow the sector to grow and waitlists to shrink. 

It was not that long ago that nurses and teachers were grossly underpaid because the sector was seen as largely women’s work — though there is still so much more to do still. It took decades of organizing community power by unions and families to secure the improvements to pay that both professions have. 

It’s time for child care sector workers to win a similar transformation.  

Ford’s funding formula has no clear plan to transform pay for child care sector workers to match the importance of the work that they do. This kind of hollow posturing is why I struggle to read the headlines and not see another bullet point he wants to print on his campaign flyers and ads. 

We can read the writing on the wall — and we are getting election ready. We are grateful to everyone who can volunteer or donate!

Additionally, I have created four surveys spanning the three ministerial portfolios I am responsible for including one to cover community safety as that is a priority issue for the City of Toronto and Toronto Centre. If you have general feedback that doesn’t fall into these buckets you can still provide that information through the ONDP’s general consultation survey here.

Please share my surveys with anyone in your networks who would be interested!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• WPSQ continues to mistreat tenants at 77 Howard St.
• New Ontario Homelessness Numbers
• IPV Committee Hearings
• Walk with the NDP in Labour Day
• Volunteer at the St. James Town and Cabbagetown Festivals
• Ontario NDP Platform Survey 
• Visiting Little Canada - Top Toronto Attraction
• Ford Jokes About Hospital Wait Times
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

I was deeply disappointed to see Wellesley Parliament Square (WPSQ) continue gaslighting and invalidating what their tenants are going through at 77 Howard St. In a new article by Gaye Taylor, their spokesperson told the media that " if it’s coming from anybody other than the building management, it’s either supposition, rumour or third-hand (information)".

I cannot take WPSQ's spokesperson seriously considering their track-record of not getting back to tenants and failing to manage the building. WPSQ has also failed to meet the deadline to answer the letter I sent them last week. 

Adding insult to injury, a tenant at 77 Howard St. sent my office a video this morning showing dust pouring into the open laundry room —when tenants were doing their laundry! Tenants are already struggling because only 1/3 of laundry machines are operating. They deserve laundry refunds and compensation.

Next week the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) will meet, and this week featured a preview of the issues they will raise with numbers reported that Ontario’s homeless population has grown to number more than 230,000 — almost a quarter million. 

This is up over 200,000 from 21,000 in 2018. 

Those numbers are not a typo.

These numbers encapsulate Ford’s failure to respond to the housing crisis. An NDP government will make sure provincial responsibilities are paid for by the province in a new partnership with cities, based on respect.

We will act urgently to fix our housing, health care and addictions crises, so that everyone, no matter where you live in Ontario, can live a good life.

The committee studying intimate partner violence continued this week. I started this seventh differently by calling on MPP Mike Mantha to formally resign from the intimate partner violence (IPV) study committee and our Justice Policy Committee. I want to echo the call from Marit Stiles that he step down as an MPP after reports were published that he sexually assaulted his constituency staff. Perpetrators of sexual harassment and violence should not shape the laws intended to stop IPV. 

This week, the IPV Study Committee and I delved into comprehensive discussions to address the urgent need for declaring intimate partner violence (IPV) an epidemic and passing Bill 173. Presenters, including those from the Moose Hide campaign, emphasized the integration of land-based healing and Indigenous sovereignty into IPV initiatives. We spoke to experts about how to use tools like the ODARA and the limits of their effectiveness within diverse communities.

Further discussions highlighted the crucial role of education and training in detecting and responding to IPV, the ongoing failure to act on past IPV recommendations, and the need for preventative measures to reduce emergency situations. We also explored the systemic issues of human trafficking and the significant role of family services in healing IPV impacts.

Calls were reiterated for legislative actions including the immediate passing of Bill 173, expansion of Legal Aid, smarter bail reforms, and better housing and counseling access for survivors. The expert consensus is clear: Ontarians want comprehensive reform and accountability to protect and empower IPV survivors.

Join New Democrats this Labour Day! Sign up below.

We will be back at the Cabbagetown and St. James Town Festivals tabling on the weekend of September 7, 2024. We would love all the volunteer help we can get engaging our neighbours. Sign up below.

Saturday September 7, 2024

Sunday September 8, 2024

We need your help to finalize our platform! Thank you to everyone who has already filled this out — I know that it is not a quick survey to complete and appreciate everyone’s time and patience in filling it out.  The Ontario NDP and I want to ensure this plan reflects what hardworking Ontarians expect from their government. 

Click here and let us know — what are your priorities? 

This week, I had the chance to meet with Little Canada and talk about the vital support our arts and culture organizations need to take risks and grow. Their miniature display of Toronto Centre’s landmarks at 10 Dundas St. E is truly a labour of love. Be sure to visit this can’t miss attraction! Learn more at their website.

I’ll be honest that I did not have “Ford thinks the health crisis he created is funny” on my 2024 bingo card — but here we are. While at the opening for a new animal hospital earlier this week, Doug Ford joked that a new animal hospital be the overflow site for human patients when looking for “MRIs, CAT scan and everything else.”

The moronic comments from Ford show how out of touch he is when 2.3 Ontarians are struggling to find a family doctor, burnt out nurses are leaving the profession in record numbers and wait times for surgeries are months long. He is simply not up to job.

He has failed to apologize. 

Earlier this week, the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern because a new strain of mpox is spreading rapidly through Central Africa. 

What you need to know:

• The outbreak is linked to a new strain (called a Clade) of mpox that is highly virulent
• Over 15,000 infections have happened in Central Africa, with a fatality rate of 3.7% — this is higher than the fatality rate of the strain of mpox that spread in 2022. 
• Declaring a public health emergency of international concern is a signal for countires like Canada to share our vaccine stockpiles — something the Trudeau government has not yet agreed to do. 

Mpox cases increased significantly in Toronto last month. Public health officials are encouraging people who meet the eligibility criteria to get vaccinated. You can see the eligibility criteria here. 

There are three currently eligible groups:

1. Any queer person who has (or plans to have) sex with men who are having non-exclusive sex with other men 
2. Anyone who does sex work 
3. Any immunocompromised person who lives with someone who is eligible based on the above criteria. 

To anyone who is eligible — odds are that you want to look fabulous all the time. An mpox infection is not just extraordinarily painful — it will temporarily make you less attractive than you otherwise could be. Do the right thing for everyone, and please get your shot!

You can book an mpox vaccination here. 

This is another wake-up call for our government to pass the Ontario NDP's Stay Home If You Are Sick Act.

I had a fabulous time visiting the Underpass Park Farmers' Market! Many thanks to all the sponsors including co-founder, Socrates Apallas, and the team of vendors & farmers who show up every Thursday from 4 PM – 7:30 PM. Harvest themes are fast approaching and this exceptional market runs until October. 

• Low-Income Residents Push Landlord for Compensation After ‘Catastrophic’ Toronto Storm
• Ontario privacy commissioner issues new guidance for intimate partner violence professionals
• ‘These are not your lands to give away’: 6 First Nations take Ontario to court over mining law
• The PCs claim their new law will end puppy mills in Ontario—it won’t even come close
• Ontario nurses group supports national pharmacare program
• NDP plans to ban renovictions
• Encampments a ‘public policy failure’ by successive governments. Ontario municipalities push for thousands more supportive housing units 
• Toronto business owner calls out Metrolinx
• ‘We have nothing to hide,’ Doug Ford says as RCMP interviews potential witnesses 🤥🤥🤥
• Are private health care providers breaking the law? Four doctors speak out on for-profit care
• Finding a job is tough when you have a disability, and Ontario's revamped employment system isn't helping
• Why Nurses are calling out Highway 413
• Electoral College Projected Averages this week

Samantha Green, our federal NDP candidate in Toronto, is out knocking on doors every week. You can join her by signing up for her canvass this Monday or seeing all her upcoming shifts. 

Friends of Allan Gardens invites the community to a Summer Plant Swap & Fundraiser. Bring your pest-free cuttings, plants, and seeds to trade with fellow plant enthusiasts. Alongside the swap, a volunteer-propagated plant sale will offer $5 and $10 plants. The event also features a raffle, so bring some cash for a chance to win great prizes!

• Date/Time: Saturday, August 17th, 2024, from 10 AM – 2 PM
• Location: Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory & Teaching Garden, 160 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2E5

For more details, visit: Friends of Allan Gardens.

Friends of Allan Gardens invites kids and families to Mudday Mornings, a fun and educational drop-in program throughout August. Explore urban agriculture and nature through interactive learning stations that change weekly, making each Monday morning unique.

• Designed for Ages: 3-8 (siblings welcome)
• Parent/Guardian Supervision: Required
• Cost: Pay-what-you-can, with a $5 suggested donation per child
• Date/Time: Every Monday in August, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM (drop-in anytime)
• Location: Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory & the Edible Garden, 160 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2E5

Special thanks to the Garden Club of Toronto and the City of Toronto for supporting this program. Hosted by Matt Canaran and Friends of Allan Gardens volunteers. For more details, visit Friends of Allan Gardens.

St. James Town Community Corner and Toronto Police Services are hosting a Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway for kids aged 4 to 16 years. This event is designed to support families with a combined annual income of $50,000 or less. The giveaway will take place at The Corner, located at 200 Wellesley Street East.

To participate, families need to register in person on:

• Tuesday, August 20, from 4 - 6:30 PM
• Wednesday, August 21, from 4:30 - 6 PM

Please note that supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't forget to bring your children's ID cards for age verification.

For more information, please contact The Corner at 416-964-6657 or [email protected]

Steps to Support Houselink & Mainstay Community Housing, along with community partners, are hosting their 3rd Annual Back to School Drive. Families with children aged 4-18 who reside in designated buildings (listed below) are invited for an afternoon of fun, entertainment, and refreshments. There will also be a raffle!

Event Details:

• Date: August 23
• Time: 12 - 4 PM
• Location: Moss Park Basketball Court, Queen St East & Ontario St Intersection

Eligible Buildings:

• 275 Shuter
• 285 Shuter
• 295 Shuter
• 155 Sherbourne
• 200 Sherbourne

Registration: To register, call with your name, building, unit number, and the names and ages of each child in your household.

Contact for More Information:

• Candice Stoute: (437) 246-3587, [email protected]
• Steps to Support Office Mainline: (416) 368-2424

Registration Deadline: August 12

This event is a wonderful opportunity to prepare for the new school year while enjoying a day out with the community!

The 519 invites the community to their 8th Annual Back-to-School Bash, a fun-filled event to celebrate the new school year.

• Date: Sunday, August 25
• Time: 1 - 5 PM
• Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church Street

Enjoy music, food, games, and activities for the whole family as we gear up for the new school year. Don't miss this exciting event! Learn more here.

The Cabbagetown Festival is looking for volunteers to help bring their event to life! If you, your family members, or friends are able to help, the festival would appreciate your support. Please share this opportunity with them!

 Volunteers will be needed for various 5-hour shifts between 6 AM - 10 PM on Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8. 

 Benefits of Volunteering:

• Meet new friends from your community!
• Earn valuable work experience for your resume.
• FREE lunch.
• Support local small businesses.
• Complete your high-school community service requirements.
• IT'S FUN!!

If you would like to volunteer, please fill out the form below. The Cabbagetown Festival thanks you!

Deadline to Apply: Sunday, August 18

    SIGN UP HERE

Join the St. James Town Community Corner for the St. James Town Festival 2024, celebrating with the theme "Greener and Safer: Reviving and Rebuilding Relationships."

Enjoy fun activities, performances, community awards, cultural foods, and a variety of vendors at this year’s St James Town Festival! 

• Date: Saturday, September 7
• Time: 1 - 7 PM
• Location: Ontario Street, north of Wellesley Street East

For more information or questions, email [email protected].

St. James Town Community Corner invites vendors and performers to participate in the St. James Town Festival 2024. Showcase your products and art, or perform on the festival’s main stage.

• Date: Saturday, September 7
• Time: 1 PM - 7 PM
• Location: Ontario Street, north of Wellesley Street East

Vendor and Performer Registration:

• Email: [email protected] with the subject title "Festival Vendor/Performer"

Dixon Hall is launching their Farmers’ Market flyer market. This unique market works on the “Pay What You Can” model.

Dates: Every other Thursday (Aug 29, Sept 12, Sept 26)

Time: 3 PM until sold out! 

Location: 190 Carlton Street

Farmers Market Quick Facts:

• PWYC Model: Choose your price, from $5 to $20, ensuring everyone can access fresh food.
• Community Engagement: Enjoy fresh produce, lively activities, and music, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Dixon Hall needs volunteers to help them organize the market; help out today!

Date: Every Wednesday, from July 3 – September 4, 2024

Location: The Big Park | Bake Oven

Time: 5 - 8 PM

Learn more here.

Dates: Mondays-Thursdays, July 8 – August 29

Times: 3:30 - 5:30 PM 

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart this summer for drop-in summer arts programming! Children, youth and family arts will run Mondays-Thursdays (note that some Thursdays will be Family Field Trips days and may start earlier - please enquire)! 

A one-time application is required. Click here or email us at [email protected] for the application. 

This summer, participants will explore painting, sculpture, paper crafts, and more! Nourishing snacks and refreshments are provided.

Seniors Program (55+)

Date: Every Monday 

Time: 10 AM - 12:45 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Adults Program (16+)

Date: Every Wednesday

Time: 5:30 - 8:30 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart for our year-round open art studio for adults and seniors! Participants are welcome to attend both sessions. 

Enjoy an open, welcoming environment to meet like-minded creative people! Warm meals are provided during programming.

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program offers grants to Toronto residents who are behind on their hydro payments and receive support from Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This initiative is a collaboration between the City of Toronto, Neighbourhood Information Post (NIP), and partner agencies.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Residency: Must live in Toronto
• Income: Must meet low-income guidelines
• Utility Bills: Must have a recent “past due” Toronto Hydro bill or a disconnection notice from the utility provider
• Additional Requirements: Must meet other program criteria

Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee grant approval, and additional documentation may be required.

Learn more here.

Dixon Hall is launching their next step skills-based training program for those seeking meaningful employment in Toronto’s Downtown East. This program is being launched in partnership with George Brown College’s Continuing Education Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts. The program innovatively combines theoretical learning with hands-on training, preparing participants for successful careers in the dynamic culinary and food industry. Information here.

Key benefits of the program include:

• Innovative Learning: Hybrid courses that blend online education with practical, in-kitchen experiences.
• Earn Certifications: Gain industry-recognized certifications that ensure you have the skills needed for a thriving career.
• 1-on-1 Employment Assistance: Personalized support from employment advisors to ensure you’re job-ready upon completion.

Did you know that Wellesley Community Centre has a new indoor pool? ... & that it is FREE to use EVERY DAY!!!!!

 Wellesley pool offers FREE drop-in access to all ages:

️open leisure swim

️aquafit classes

️lane swimming

️women's only leisure swim

️2SLGBTQ+ friendly inclusive leisure swim

Check out the schedules here

Join The Circle of Cedar Singers for 2 Spirit Healing Drumming sessions:

• Dates: Tuesdays from July 23 to October 29
• Time: 6 - 7:30 PM
• Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church St.

All are welcome to watch or join in (bring your own drum). For more details, email [email protected].

Dear friend,

On Thursday morning, I held a press conference with tenants at 77 Howard Street, calling on their landlord, Wellesley Parliament Square, to compensate them for the damages they have suffered due to the building’s electrical failure. 

The significant rainfall on July 16 breached the building, causing flooding and an electrical fire that damaged the electrical system of 77 Howard Street.

The day after the power outage, residents at 77 Howard called and texted me asking for additional help as they were told it could be weeks or longer before power was fully restored.  I contacted the Councillor’s office to offer my support to the tenants and his office. After the electrical fires at 650 Parliament and the power outage at 260 Wellesley Street East, I have significant experience supporting vulnerable tenants in Toronto Centre, especially St James Town. It’s a special neighbourhood that is very heavily populated and exclusively comprised of high-rise rental apartments.

In 2019, I worked with Toronto Fire and Mayor Tory to hold landlords responsible for property maintenance and improve crisis communications during emergencies. This led to the Vital Service Disruption in Apartment Buildings report, which formally restructured, regulated, and improved how landlords and property managers across Toronto respond to building-wide emergencies.

I canvassed 77 Howard twice during the outage, knocking on every door on every floor and carrying out wellness checks. By my third visit, I had spoken to hundreds of tenants and met even more in the crowded lobby waiting for food delivery, parcels, and restricted elevator access. They shared their stories with me and expressed fear, anxiety, and anger about their situation. My staff and I took many notes and were invited into numerous homes to assess the water damage in person. The elderly, people living with disabilities, and those who are immunocompromised felt particularly abandoned and confused by the outage. They were scared to leave their units, even for food, in fear that their belongings would be stolen or that their tenancy could be jeopardized.

Tenants at 77 Howard had to throw away all the food in their refrigerators and freezers as it was no longer safe to eat. I met desperate tenants cooking meals on propane camping equipment inside their apartments. This was not safe, and vulnerable tenants shouldn’t have been put in such a difficult position. Without a functioning kitchen, tenants have incurred expenses dining out and buying costly pre-made meals. Others couldn’t manage the power outage and were forced to go to a hotel or sleep on the sofas and floors in the homes of friends and family.

At our press conference, tenants expressed frustration. They are at a loss with their landlord, Wellesley Parliament Square, who has refused to provide rent abatements to them despite all tenants having been affected by the outage. The owners of Wellesley Parliament Square are collecting full rent from the tenants despite them not having full access to their units and building services for over half the month. 

Joyce, a long-time tenant, reports that she has been abandoned by her landlord. Her apartment was flooded during the storm with two feet of water. Most of her belongings were damaged, and she lost the contents of her fridge and deep freezer. She has been staying in a hotel for the past two weeks as her home is full of mould and unsafe to live in. Joyce told us that she has already spent thousands of dollars staying at a nearby hotel as she did not want to be far away from her home fearful that things would get stolen. 

I also spoke to parents with babies who lost stored formula and breast milk during the outage and struggled to find ways to feed their little ones without hot water or power. The building owner provided morning coffee and pizza in the evening for tenants, but that is obviously not appropriate food for babies.

A single mother with an autistic child had been sleeping on the floor of homes opened up to her by family and friends. These are just a few stories that tenants relayed to me.  It is shocking to me that accommodations were not made for these families.

Yesterday, after the power was restored from the City’s electrical grid, I heard from the landlord in reply to a letter I sent them, which I shared with you last week. They are refusing to compensate tenants despite the loss of vital services for multiple days. Tenants have reported they cannot access their insurance because of the lack of documentation from the landlord about the fire or that expensive deductibles are simply out of reach at this time with all their additional and unexpected expenses. Another tenant hired a lawyer because she was not getting any responses from the landlord on her own, and now her lawyer is being ignored. 

I am extremely frustrated by Wellesley Parliament Square’s lack of compassion for their own tenants, especially those living with vulnerabilities. They have a responsibility to work out problems with their tenants. The rent abatement that the tenants are asking for is not unreasonable, considering the crisis they have just lived through. The pizza provided is not going to pay their hotel bills, replace water damaged furnishings or even replenish the lost groceries from their fridge. During my time in public life, I have met many excellent and deeply caring landlords, so I know the difference when I see one. Wellesley Parliament Square is refusing to rise and meet the moment with resources to help.

I understand that mechanical failures happen and that the rainfall Toronto experienced was extreme, but what the owners of Wellesley Parliament Square fail to understand is that the provision of housing is not just another business. Landlords and tenants have a relationship and responsibility to one another. Tenant homes are not just profit centres for the wealthy. Homes are where people make precious memories with their families and go to feel safe after long, difficult days. To have your home be jeopardized and your belongings damaged is psychologically destabilizing. Landlords must understand this and know that their jobs require extra care and compassion, especially in times of crisis. 

We also have to remember that the tenants at 77 Howard were present for the tragedy at 650 Parliament Street, a building also owned by Wellesley Parliament Square that is right around the corner. Those tenants are their neighbours. They saw how the tenants were treated when 650 Parliament experienced a massive electrical fire. That treatment left much to be desired and it is sad to see it repeated now. 

I will continue to advocate strongly for the tenants of 77 Howard Street. They deserve more than what they have received so far. Tenants are stronger collectively, and only by banding together will they be able to be heard above the noise of the generators. Only tenant solidarity will move the landlord to compassionate action. 

On a personal note, next week I will be out of the office to participate in the Friends for Life Bike Rally from Toronto to Montreal in support of the People with AIDS Foundation (PWA). This is a remarkable organization that I began supporting long before my time in public life. PWA carries out life-saving and life-transforming work to support people living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto. 

Government funding for PWA has flatlined and the cost to delivering the essential services from PWA has continue to surge with the inflation and the cost of living crisis. PWA has a fundraising goal of $1.7 million for this ride and we are not there yet, but I know that more money will be raised over the six-day ride starting this Sunday. Every dollar raised will be directly invested in community services and support. To learn more about my journey with PWA and the Bike Rally, please visit my page here. 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Intimate Partner Violence Study Days Five and Six
• Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train
• Ontario Cuts Wastewater Testing Amid Outcry
• Your Ideas - Beautifying Moss Park’s Construction Hoarding
• Toronto’s Refugee Housing Crisis Isn’t Over
• Dixon Hall’s Historic Cabbagetown Properties
• Closure of School Age Daycare at St. Lawrence Co-op Daycare
• The Market Square Story
• McGill-Granby Village Neighbourhood BBQ
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community News

This week, much of my time was occupied by days five and six of the Intimate Partner Violence Sub-Committee Hearings. We heard from esteemed researchers, frontline workers who give their whole hearts to their work, lawyers, trainers who have refined therapeutic techniques to rehabilitate violent partners, and so many more. It is an honour that they are giving their valuable time to this committee, and I am learning so much each day. I am eager to put all of this expertise into a report and then push to get our recommendations and findings funded! 

Here is a recap of each day this week: 

Day 5 (Wednesday): 

On day five, successive presenters echoed and strengthened calls for evidence-based solutions. The facts were brutal, but it is important to hear them so that we can create the best report possible.

Day 5’s  calls were:

• Have the government declare IPV an epidemic without further delay - we heard this repeatedly.
• Fund and expand child and youth-focused programs to detect early intervention, promote emotion regulation, and effectively assess the risk of violence and repeat offenders.
• Train first responders and legal professionals on the well-documented links between animal cruelty and IPV/GBV. This link must be considered in early detection and when funding shelters, housing, and programs.
• Fund consistent IPV/GBV responses in schools, colleges, and universities across the province. Ending the cycle of violence must include programs to work with men and youth to end IPV and GBV.
• Centre the experiences and lived realities of Indigenous communities as we work towards solutions to end IPV/GBV. Governments, including Ontario, have not heard Indigenous calls for support, reforms, and funding. The MMIW report laid out solutions, but no government or institutional accountability exists. 

Day 6 (Thursday): 

On Day 6 of committee hearings on Intimate Partner Violence, we heard from expert witnesses who called on the government to:

• Immediately pass Bill 173 and declare IPV an epidemic
• Develop laws to address technology-facilitated violence and GBV
• Create a curriculum to foster digital safety awareness for students
• Modernize and study the effectiveness of the Partner Assault Response Program and fund it properly
• Take a feminist and justice-based approach to men’s intervention to end IPV/GBV
• Expand restorative justice programs as fewer women are reporting to police
• Rebuild the Victim Quick Response Program, as it’s not working for IPV/GBV survivors
• Recognize the need for culturally and linguistically appropriate services and fund them
• Stabilize the IPV/GBV sector to help retain staff and reduce service wait times by providing core funding indexed to inflation
• Do better, as Ontario is lagging behind other provinces, such as BC and NS, when it comes to legal and criminal justice reforms to protect IPV survivors

Since 2023, the federal government has been transferring $162 million to the provincial government over four years for the Ontario implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. We are two years into the four-year agreement, and little has been said about the money or the plan. The GBV/IPV sector has been coming to the committee, calling for core funding and more support. They deserve transparency and accountability. There is significant room for improvement, and solutions are on the table. We don’t have time to waste!

If you would like to watch the presentations live, you can tune in next on August 14 and 15 from 10 AM - 4:30 PM here. You can also read the transcripts from the previous days' hearings here. 

On Wednesday night, I was proud to ride the Underground Freedom Train with community members and friends to commemorate Emancipation Day & Month in Toronto. It's an important reminder of the defiance and resistance of the Underground Railroad against the dehumanization of slavery. It was emotional and joyful to celebrate the fortitude of Black people and abolitionists who never gave up and worked tirelessly to overturn institutions to end slavery. Thank you to all of the organizers for your beautiful work.

On Wednesday, Doug Ford’s Conservative Government officially halted wastewater testing for COVID-19 and other viruses. It is hard to fathom why this government would halt this extremely cost-effective and critical program. They claim that they did it because it was duplicative of a federal wastewater testing program, but that is not true. The Ontario program had far more testing sites and tested for a broader range of pathogens. This kept smaller towns and remote areas safer as they had more localized data about wastewater born pathogens, including COVID-19 and the flu. 

Reliable wastewater testing is one of the tools we have at our disposal to monitor and prepare for future public health emergencies – why would we take that away? 

My colleagues in the Ontario NDP and I have repeatedly called for a reversal of this decision and for the program to be expanded and invested in instead. 

As we are all well aware, Metrolinx has begun construction on the new Ontario Line station in Moss Park, which means yet more construction hoarding. 

Luckily, Metrolinx has just launched a community survey where you can have your say and share your ideas about what you want the hoarding to look like. Their goal is for the hoarding artwork to reflect the spirit, diversity, and creativity of the community. 

Click here to complete the survey and tell Metrolinx what you love most about your neighbourhood, what themes you’d like to see, and what landmarks you think should be featured. Metrolinx will collect all your feedback and work with local artists and organizations to bring it to life. 

Have Your Say! The survey will remain open until August 23, 2024.

It has been a little over one year since the refugees, service providers, and community members gathered to host a press conference at 129 Peter Street, declaring a humanitarian crisis in Toronto.

Last Friday, I joined the African Canadian Collective to remind everyone that this crisis is not over. All levels of government must do more to prevent refugees and asylum seekers from continuing to sleep on the streets and surviving off the goodwill of organizations and generous regular people.

At our one-year anniversary presser, I called on the Ford government to use its immense political power to bring Ontario cities and the federal government together to create an intergovernmental action table to coordinate resources and immediately provide safe shelter and housing for refugees in need.

On Monday, I had the opportunity to tour the newly renovated rooming houses on Parliament Street. During my time at the City, I pushed to have these rooming houses renovated and worked to ensure a housing operator with a proven track record of success was selected. It was wonderful to see the results of that work. I am so glad that the tenants who will soon call these beautiful, historic buildings home will have a well-maintained and safe place to live. 

Rooming houses are a key part of helping people transition out of chronic homelessness and precarious housing. We are fortunate to have amazing organizations like Dixon Hall working toward real solutions in Toronto Centre.

Calling all gardeners and landscapers! The final phase of work is fast approaching, and that will include beautiful landscaping expected for these Cabbagetown historic properties. I know that labour and material costs have dramatically increased since COVID, and to ensure the highest quality of landscaping, Dixon Hall will need assistance getting across this highly-anticipated finish line. 

If you have access to landscaping materials or just want to plant with us, please contact my office at [email protected] to join the Dixon Hall Cabbagetown Landscaping Club.

Uncertain child care funding has led to the closure of the School Age daycare program at the St. Lawrence Co-op Daycare. This program helped many families across Toronto, but the Centre has no choice but to focus on core child care programs as a result of changing (and inadequate) funding from the provincial government. 

I want to thank everyone working at and supporting the centre as they navigate an impossibly complex workforce and funding environment. Families deserve a government that invests in affordable child care and ensuring that child care workers can afford to live and thrive in our city. I will continue advocating for the government to prioritize a child care workforce strategy. We should be seeing every child care program expand to meet our community's need, not reduce its scope. 

Click here to sign the petition and support childcare workers in Ontario!

Every home has a story worth telling. "The Market Square Story" is a new historical book that captures the development of the community at 35 Church St, tracing its journey from time immemorial to the present. Thank you to the team of residents who put countless hours into documenting, preserving, and cherishing this snapshot into your community's history. 

It was a joy to participate in the launch of this special book and learn even more about our beloved St. Lawrence neighbourhood. 

Anyone interested in a copy can email [email protected]

It was a joy to spend time with residents of McGill-Granby Village and to connect with new and old friends over a tasty barbecue last Saturday. Thank you to the McGill-Granby Village Residents Association for putting together this wonderful event that brought neighbours out into the street!

If you live in the McGill-Granby area, reach out and join your residents’ association. Learn more here.

• Tenants fight back as landlords seeking own-use evictions rise 85% in Ontario
• B.C. government to launch website to combat 'bad faith' evictions
• Ontario has a globally praised system for monitoring diseases through wastewater. So why is the province shutting it down?
• In 1993, Alberta said a private liquor model would bring more choice and stable prices. Did it?
• As for-profit health care expands across Canada, doctors are fighting back
• 'The docs don’t have a lack of customers': Ford defends plans for expansion of treatment at Ontario pharmacies
• Ontario government to buy 5 police helicopters for $134M
• Doug Ford may be getting ready for an early election — but it’s not clear how many ridings Ontario will have
• Supreme court says treaty rights are enforceable, constitutional
• This Toronto cafe was hit with a staggering rent increase. As buildings sell and more leases come up for renewal, can local shops survive?
• Man shot by Toronto police was in mental health crisis, family says
• Cycling advocates warn of ‘crisis’ after latest rider killed on Toronto street

WAYO Children's Festival is back in our community from August 7 to 11 and promises fun and wonder for the whole family!

WAYO invites you to discover Animals' Stories through dance, music, storytelling, installations, theatre, and crafts. Let's be mesmerized by whimsical animals from different continents: sheep from Europe, farm animals from East Africa, salmon from Canada, as well as bears, caribous, and possums! Some of the artists featured in Jamii's 5th WAYO Children's Festival are CORPUS, Clay and Paper Theatre, Drawing with Knives, Germaine Konji, Maulid Owino, Edwin Maina, and many more!

Plus, the festival will take you through two heritage buildings, the Berkeley Castle and Berkeley Theatre (Canadian Stage).

All in one, WAYO is a memorable experience for the whole family! Book your tickets now here.

WHEN: August 7 to 11

SHOW TIMES:  4:30 PM, 5 PM, 5:30 PM, 6 PM

SHOW DURATION: 1 hour

WHERE:  Starts at 250 The Esplanade

Steps to Support Houselink & Mainstay Community Housing, along with community partners, are hosting their 3rd Annual Back to School Drive. Families with children aged 4-18 who reside in designated buildings (listed below) are invited for an afternoon of fun, entertainment, and refreshments. There will also be a raffle!

Event Details:

• Date: August 23
• Time: 12 PM - 4 PM
• Location: Moss Park Basketball Court, Queen St East & Ontario St Intersection

Eligible Buildings:

• 275 Shuter
• 285 Shuter
• 295 Shuter
• 155 Sherbourne
• 200 Sherbourne

Registration: To register, call with your name, building, unit number, and the names and ages of each child in your household.

Contact for More Information:

• Candice Stoute: (437) 246-3587, [email protected]
• Steps to Support Office Mainline: (416) 368-2424

Registration Deadline: August 12

This event is a wonderful opportunity to prepare for the new school year while enjoying a day out with the community!

Dixon Hall is launching their Fair Share Farmers’ Market. This unique market works on the “Pay What You Can” model.

Dates: Every other Thursday (Aug 15, Aug 29, Sept 12, Sept 26)

Time: 3 PM until sold out! 

Location: 190 Carlton Street

Farmers Market Quick Facts:

• PWYC Model: Choose your price, from $5 to $20, ensuring everyone can access fresh food.
• Community Engagement: Enjoy fresh produce, lively activities, and music, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Dixon Hall needs volunteers to help them organize the market; help out today!

Date: Every Wednesday, from July 3rd – September 4th, 2024

Location: The Big Park | Bake Oven

Time: 5 PM-8 PM

Learn more here.

Dates: Mondays-Thursdays, July 8 – August 29

Times: 3:30-5:30 PM 

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart this summer for drop-in summer arts programming! Children, youth and family arts will run Mondays-Thursdays (note that some Thursdays will be Family Field Trips days and may start earlier - please enquire)! 

A one-time application is required. Click here or email us at [email protected] for the application. 

This summer, participants will explore painting, sculpture, paper crafts, and more! Nourishing snacks and refreshments are provided.

Seniors Program (55+)

Date: Every Monday 

Time: 10 AM - 12:45 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Adults Program (16+)

Date: Every Wednesday

Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Location: Daniels Spectrum 2nd floor (studio 210)

Join ArtHeart for our year-round open art studio for adults and seniors! Participants are welcome to attend both sessions. 

Enjoy an open, welcoming environment to meet like-minded, creative people! Warm meals are provided during programming.

Dixon Hall is launching their Next Step skills-based training program for those seeking meaningful employment in Toronto’s Downtown East. This program is being launched in partnership with George Brown College’s Continuing Education Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts. The program innovatively combines theoretical learning with hands-on training, preparing participants for successful careers in the dynamic culinary and food industry.

Key benefits of the program include:

• Innovative Learning: Hybrid courses that blend online education with practical, in-kitchen experiences.
• Earn Certifications: Gain industry-recognized certifications that ensure you have the skills needed for a thriving career.
• 1-on-1 Employment Assistance: Personalized support from employment advisors to ensure you’re job-ready upon completion.

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program offers grants to Toronto residents who are behind on their hydro payments and receive support from Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This initiative is a collaboration between the City of Toronto, Neighbourhood Information Post (NIP), and partner agencies.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Residency: Must live in Toronto
• Income: Must meet low-income guidelines
• Utility Bills: Must have a recent “past due” Toronto Hydro bill or a disconnection notice from the utility provider
• Additional Requirements: Must meet other program criteria

Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee a grant approval, and additional documentation may be required.

Learn more here.

Did you know that Wellesley Community Centre has a new indoor pool? And it is free to use every day!

 Wellesley Pool offers FREE drop-in access to all ages:

• ️Open leisure swim
• ️Aquafit classes
• ️Lane swimming
• ️Women's only leisure swim
• ️2SLGBTQ+ friendly inclusive leisure swim

Check out the schedules here

Join The Circle of Cedar Singers for 2 Spirit Healing Drumming sessions:

• Dates: Tuesdays from July 23 to October 29
• Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• Location: Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church St.

All are welcome to watch or join in (bring your own drum). For more details, email [email protected]