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Dear friend,

The Ontario Legislature resumes this upcoming Monday after five long months and a general election. I’m eager to return to Queen’s Park alongside the ONDP caucus to fight for the issues that matter to you!

This week, I was reappointed by Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles as the Shadow Attorney General, with responsibility for 2SLGBTQIA+ issues. These are the same roles I held in the last session of the legislature, and I am grateful for the Leader’s confidence in me to take up these important portfolios again. This means I will continue to hold the Ministry of the Attorney General accountable for decisions, call out when things are broken, such as our court and tribunal systems, and propose solutions on how to improve the legal system to better serve Ontarians. I also have the privilege and responsibility of amplifying concerns affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I will do this by listening to and partnering with our community groups to bring their voices to Queen’s Park, something that is more important than ever as Queer and Trans communities are scapegoated by conservative politicians and far-right groups. 

I will take on my shadow ministerial appointments with the energy and focus that you deserve and expect from your Member of Provincial Parliament. I am excited to build on my existing knowledge, stand up for justice, and ensure that Ontarians from every corner of our province, from survivors of violence to tenants, will get their day in court and the Landlord Tenant Board. 

This Legislative session will be unlike any other, as the ever-evolving tariff situation south of the border keeps us on our toes. Ontarians need an even-handed, transparent, and accountable government now more than ever. 

The Ontario NDP caucus is ready to take a Team Ontario approach to protecting jobs and insulating the province from the worst effects of Donald Trump’s tariffs while holding this government accountable and pushing for the strong public services we need. 

Yesterday, Ontario’s Financial Accountability Office released a report showing decades of decline in services for key social programs – including healthcare, long-term care, post-secondary education, and social assistance. 

Under consecutive Conservative and Liberal governments, long-term care beds per capita have plummeted by 45 percent, from 99 to 62 beds per 1,000 seniors. The growth in our aging population should come as no surprise to any government as the sector has been forecasting for years the need for public investment to expand long-term care beds to meet the “silver tsunami.” Any intelligent and responsive government would have proactively built these homes in anticipation of these needs. 

Similarly, there has been a steady decline in the number of hospital beds per 100,000 people – from 478 in 1990-91 to 222 in 2023-24. The previous Liberal government purposefully downsized hospitals in the 1990s, cutting the number of hospital beds by half. The Ford government has significantly made this worse by creating less than one bed per 100,000 Ontarians during their terms, further growing our hallway medicine crisis. 

We are all also seeing the results of the chronic underfunding of our post-secondary education system in real time. Colleges and universities have been forced to rely on lucrative international student fees to make up budget shortfalls, only to see these student visas capped by the federal Liberal government, causing post-secondary institutions to make head-turning program cuts. On a real per-student basis, postsecondary education spending in Ontario has decreased from $14,183 per student annually in 1990-91 to $12,994 in 2023-24, adjusted for inflation. Raiding reserves, taking on new debt, selling assets, and even terminating courses and staff will not sustain the post-secondary education sector. Without smart government intervention, they are heading towards financial collapse.

In the face of record-high housing costs and a rise in homelessness, inflation-adjusted social assistance rates are even lower today than they were 20 years ago. Nobody wants to see their neighbours made homeless, yet Liberal and Conservative governments have insisted on maintaining sub-poverty social assistance rates for the most vulnerable among us. Now, heading into what appears to be a drawn-out trade war, we should be lifting people up, not sending them deeper into poverty when they are sick and unable to work or unable to find work.

We need to make sure Ontarians can weather the storm of financial uncertainty. We must protect Ontarian families for whatever changes there are to come. That means we need a government that invests in the services that matter most – reliable health care, affordable homes, and great schools. I will never back down in the face of adversity. I will continue pushing this government to make the critical investments to grow our economy and support our communities amid international uncertainty.

I am excited to return to the Legislature, where I will push for new and stronger legislation that takes care of people and strengthens Toronto and the province we call home.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Marit Stiles’ Meeting with US Consulate General
• Greenbelt Scandal: More Lies out of Ford’s Office
• Toronto Centre Supporters Appreciation Party
• Co-hosting the Small Business Workgroup
• $200 Cheques - are you still waiting?
• Metrolinx Construction - Noise and Disruption
• Day of Pink 2025
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

Last week, ONDP Leader Marit Stiles met with U.S. Consul General Baxter Hunt. Marit told me that they had a focused and productive discussion, where she reminded him that Ontario is the United States’ third-largest trading partner and that our prosperity is tied together.

From auto and steel to agriculture and lumber, Ontario is part of one of the most integrated trade relationships in the world—supporting millions of jobs and hundreds of billions in cross-border investment.  We all know that tariffs will stall that progress. They won’t just hurt us—they will hurt American families too. At the checkout line, on the factory floor, and across the supply chains that keep our economies running.  

Marit shared with the U.S. Consul General what MPPs have been hearing across Ontario: Canadians are united, and we will defend what we have built together. We all want to lower the temperature, but we cannot ignore the economic uncertainty caused by one man’s threats, which seem to change every single day. 

Until those threats are off the table, we will not back down. We will look after each other and build a stronger economy and a more resilient, tariff-proof Ontario. This is the work that I am focused on every day. 

Doug Ford may have a new mandate, but he has not been able to run away from the skeletons in his closet. Last week, we learned – through the diligent work of Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner – that one of Ford’s former political aides-turned-lobbyists failed to meet ethical lobbying standards. Mr. Fidani-Diker failed to register as a lobbyist, knowingly created a conflict of interest for two public officials by offering them hockey tickets in what ought to be known as a bribe, and in the course of his work for another client, failed to disclose details of the change he was lobbying for. 

Despite these egregious contraventions of lobbying rules, Mr. Fidani-Diker has only received a slap on the wrist and is free to continue his work as a professional lobbyist.

Ontario’s Office of the Integrity Commissioner is full of extremely skilled and principled people who uncover acts of wrongdoing and rulebreaking within public offices every day. However, they have very little power to actually hand down consequences, especially to elected officials. One would hope that the pubic shame would be enough for people to change their ways, but as we have seen with Ford and his buddies, many simply don’t care. We need to give the Integrity Commissioner more tools to deliver real consequences. Public officials should be held to a high standard, and it is maddening to see this government fail to uphold even basic standards of decency. I promise to continue to share this truth with you through my newsletter and to hold myself to the highest ethical standards. It is what you all deserve in an elected official.

On Sunday, I was thrilled to host a post-election Supporters Appreciation Party to thank all of the volunteers, donors, staff, and friends who put in the hard work to ensure my re-election as the MPP for Toronto Centre. 

We had a great turnout, and it was wonderful to enjoy delicious food, great music, and conversation with so many supporters. Celebrating wins is so important, especially now, when being a progressive feels difficult. Thank you so much to everyone who attended and to those who were not able to join us – we missed you! 

Yesterday, I was so happy to reconnect with amazing small business owners and supporters through our Small Business Workgroup, cohosted by MPP Chris Glover and myself. We were joined by the Bloor-Yorkville BIA, Better Way Alliance, Bloorcourt BIA, Cabbagetown BIA, and so many business owners! 

All of the attendees provided thoughtful input. What they shared about the challenges they are facing, especially around tariffs, was invaluable. I am committed to addressing these issues and making sure our small businesses not only survive but thrive in Ontario.

Most Ontarians received their $200 bribe cheque from the Ontario government earlier this year. However, NDP MPPs have been hearing from a small number of people across the province that their cheques have yet to arrive despite being eligible. 

If you meet the eligibility requirements but have not received your cheque, please contact me (or your local MPP if you live in another riding), and we will do our best to rectify the situation. NDP MPPs plan to reach out to the Minister of Finance collectively with our constituents’ stories to ensure that the government acts and sends people the money they promised. 

If you live near or work near one of the new under-construction Ontario Line subway stations or the Union Station Rail Corridor, you know that crews are working long hours. While I am pleased that efforts are being made to complete construction quickly, my office has also received many reasonable complaints about dust, noise, and vibration during sleeping hours. Metrolinx is exempt from all City of Toronto noise bylaws, but that doesn’t mean they should not be good neighbours. Please continue to reach out to my office with these concerns, and I will pass them on to Metrolinx. 

Overnight construction is currently happening around Lower Jarvis and Lower Sherbourne. This work is essential, as it will create the capacity for frequent, all-day, two-way GO transit service to more destinations along the GO rail system. However, this work is causing additional local disturbances. 

I encourage residents to attend local Metrolinx community update meetings, share concerns, and learn more about why this overnight work is sometimes necessary. We all want to be riding the Ontario line and all-day GO as soon as possible, but we also need quality sleep in the meantime!

On Wednesday, we celebrated the Day of Pink, a powerful day when people stand up against 2SLGBTQIA+ focused bullying. 

I had the honour of celebrating at the Day of Pink Gala with my friends MOlivia Chow, Fred Hahn, Jill Andrew, and Cheri Di Novo. The evening reminded us of the power of love, acceptance and the incredible progress we’ve made in Ontario. It’s not just a celebration of our vibrant 2SLGBTQIA+ communities but also a crucial fundraiser supporting programs that are making a difference in schools and communities across the country. 

Toronto's University Health Network launches scientist recruitment campaign amid U.S. health cuts, layoffs

Ontario measles case count tops 800, 155 new infections since last week

Ontario open to collaborating with Toronto on bike lane removals: Ministry of Transport

TTC says damaged signal cable near Union Station fixed

Inquest into jail death called as data shows record number of people dying in Ontario jails

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]
• Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

TransCare+ invites community members to the Trans Care Fair 2025, a full afternoon dedicated to trans wellbeing, empowerment, and connection.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
• Time: 12 – 5 PM
• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
• RSVP here

Allies are welcome in solidarity. Admission is free, and the space is fully accessible.

Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win – Support Local and Win Prizes
The Cabbagetown BIA invites community members to take part in Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win, a neighbourhood-wide local shop campaign running April 14 to May 25, 2025.

• What it is: Shop at participating Cabbagetown businesses and enter to win weekly prizes.
  
  
• How to enter: Spend $25 or more at any participating business, then upload the receipt to the campaign website.
  
  
• Prizes: Weekly gift cards from local shops and restaurants.
  
  
• Final draw: All entries are eligible for a grand prize gift card bundle.
  

This initiative celebrates and supports small businesses while offering a fun way to connect with the Cabbagetown community.

More details and a list of participating businesses are available at shopcabbagetown2win.com.

School boards receive most of their funding from the provincial government. Every spring, the Ministry announces Core Education Funding, which determines the amount of funding school boards will receive for the coming year. Before provincial funding is announced, the TDSB wants to hear from students, staff, and families during the 2025-26 budget process.

TDSB’s Budget Town Hall Community Consultations provide community members with the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback about the budget.

Visit the TDSB Budget webpage for details on how to attend in person or online, or learn how to delegate to a committee. To ensure enough space is available at the town halls, please register through this form if you plan to attend in person.

Downtown Budget Town Hall
Tuesday, April 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
In-person at Harbord Collegiate Institute (286 Harbord Street, Toronto)
(* hosted by Trustee Deborah Williams)

Student Budget Town Hall
Thursday, April 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Hybrid (in-person and/or virtual) at 5050 Yonge Street, North York
Click here to join online (for virtual option on evening of event)

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

People's Assembly on Housing Justice — a time to connect, learn, and build collective action for housing rights.

🗓️ Friday, April 25th, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Panel Discussion: Financialization of Housing and Low-Income Communities
Featuring:

• John Clarke (230 Fightback)
  
  
• Walied Khogali Ali (Regent Park Residents Association)
  
  
• Chiara Padovani (York South Weston Tenant Union)
  
  
• Lorrain Lam (Shelter Housing Justice Network)
  

🗓️ Saturday, April 26th, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Full-Day Assembly

• 10:15 AM – 12:15 PM: Working Together
  Speakers from Climate Justice Toronto, Migrant Workers Alliance, No Demovictions, Toronto Underhoused and Homeless Union/Shelter Housing Justice Network, Friends of Chinatown, and Parkdale Housing Justice.
  
  
• 12:15 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch (provided onsite)
  
  
• 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Workshops on Organizing and Tactics
  
  
• 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Mobilizing Communities
  Panel speakers: Gaetan Heroux (230 Fightback) and Bruno Dobrusin (York South Weston Tenant Union)
  
  
• 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Final Comments and Closing Reflections

📍 Location: Toronto PWA Foundation, 4th Floor, 163 Queen St E, Toronto

🆓 This is a free event. Registration is optional and not required to attend.
🍽️ Lunch will be served on Saturday.

For more information, reach out to [email protected].

 A family friendly and entertaining outdoor event which will link defending our right to choose our own future – a future that eliminates carbon emissions - a better future that provides the necessities of life, (clean air, clean water, good health, affordable housing and a job that pays a living wage) and a future with justice for Indigenous People. Come on out and enjoy speakers, music, street theatre, and a kids table!

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

Time: 1 P.M. to 4 P.M.

Location: Allan Gardens – Jarvis at Carlton (North-West section) 160 Gerrard Street East, Toronto.

The City of Toronto's Local Leadership Grant is now open! 

As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), the Local Leadership Grant of $5,000 supports resident-led projects that support local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic-decision making, physical surroundings, and social development - across all neighbourhoods. The Local Leadership Grant prioritizes the leadership and participation of Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving groups within Neighbourhood Improvement Areas, Emerging Neighbourhoods, and other communities of focus. 

Applicants must be a resident-led group consisting of at least 3 members who live in Toronto but do not live in the same household

Group projects must offer community-based activities related to at least one of the five domains of TSNS (i.e., economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in decision-making, social development and physical surroundings) of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy

• Grant Opens: Monday March 17, 2025 at 12 PM
• Grant Closes: Monday April 28, 2025 at 12 PM

Click Here to submit your online application

Click here to learn about the online information sessions and grant office hours to support you with your application. 

If you have any questions, please email [email protected] 

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

The Government of Canada invites nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made a meaningful difference through volunteerism.

Nominations are now open until May 8th for those who have shown exceptional commitment to improving the lives of others in their communities.

Award Categories:

• National Award: Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award
  
  
• Regional Awards:
  
  
  • Community Leader
  • Emerging Leader
  • Business Leader
  • Social Innovator

Nominees can include individuals, not-for-profit organizations, social enterprises, and socially responsible businesses. Multiple nominations are welcome.

Award recipients will be honoured at a national ceremony and will have the opportunity to direct a $10,000 (national) or $5,000 (regional) grant to a not-for-profit organization of their choice.

Learn more or submit a nomination at Canada.ca/volunteer-awards 

Questions can be directed to [email protected] or by calling 1-877-825-0434.

The Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association invites the community to their 15th Annual General Meeting — an evening to connect, renew memberships, and celebrate local leadership.

🗓️ Thursday, May 15th, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 The 519 Ballroom, 519 Church Street

Evening Schedule:

• 6:30 PM: Registration and Membership Renewal
  
  
• 7:00 PM: Business Meeting (Board of Directors elections; members in good standing are eligible to vote and run)
  
  
• 8:30 PM: 15th Anniversary Celebration and Cake Cutting

Questions? Contact [email protected].

The 519’s Health Justice Program invites community members to an important discussion on Community Violence and Healing, part of the Talking Justice series.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
• Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
• Location: In person at The 519 (519 Church Street) or virtually
• Tickets: Free (Presto tickets and snacks provided)
  

Bianca Braganza, MSc, JD/BCL, Pro Bono Lawyer with The 519’s Combatting 2SLGBTQ+ BIPOC Hate and Racism Program, will lead a conversation exploring:

• Community and structural violence
• Social determinants of health in relation to crime and justice
• Alternative approaches to safety and justice
  

The 519 is a fully accessible space with all-gender washrooms. Additional accessibility supports are available upon request during registration.

RSVP preferred at The519.org/hjprog

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!

Regent Park Film Festival (RPFF) is an award-winning, community-based, non-profit organization, and Toronto’s longest-running, FREE film festival.

RPFF’s mission is two-fold: to amplify and center marginalized communities and their stories, providing a platform for the work of emerging and established artists, while opening up access to the film and television industry; and to ensure art is free and accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status.

📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members.

Not Far From The Tree is inviting community members to register their fruit trees for the 2025 harvesting season. A team of volunteers will pick the fruit and divide it three ways:

• ⅓ is kept by the tree owner
• ⅓ is shared among the volunteer pickers
• ⅓ is donated to a community agency supporting food programs

Impact of Participation:

• Helps provide fresh fruit to local food programs feeding thousands each month
• Creates opportunities for community connection and sharing
• Reduces food waste while turning fruit trees into a source of nourishment

Membership & Registration:

To support Toronto’s urban harvest, tree registrants are asked to become members with a $40 seasonal contribution, which helps cover harvest costs and expand the program. Yard cleanup of fallen fruit is also included. Memberships expire annually on January 1st.

For more details and to register, visit: www.notfarfromthetree.org.

Dear friend,

The Ford government does not care about the most vulnerable people in Ontario or those who support them. We always knew this, but current issues throw that lack of care into even sharper focus. This government is defunding special education programs in our schools, pushing students and staff to the breaking point. They are closing Consumption and Treatment Sites (CTS) despite the medical evidence that proves they work, and they are letting the nursing crisis fester at the expense of patients and workers. This kind of austerity makes our province weaker, and the government is less able to respond to emergencies. Under Ford, Ontario is racing to the bottom when it comes to education and health care in the country.

Last week, the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) held a press conference to highlight the crisis in special education. They called on the Ford government to provide adequate resources and staffing to students who need extra support to thrive at school. Instead of receiving that support, most education workers feel that their in-classroom, in-school, and board-level support have decreased even as student special needs have skyrocketed. 

ETFO members cited lack of early intervention, limited resources, increases in school violence due to unmet student needs, lack of special education support for English language learners, and the persistent inequalities faced by children with disabilities as some of the most significant issues facing special education today. This amounts to an infringement on the human rights of these children. Elementary school is a critical time when young brains can pick up skills and make developmental leaps more quickly than in high school or beyond. Our youngest learners need support during these years to reach their full potential.

March is Developmental Disabilities Month, and it is critical to highlight the support that people with developmental disabilities need to be fully included in their communities. I spoke about this in the Legislature last year, and it nearly brought me to tears. Children with disabilities already cope with so much; they and their families should not also have to beg for basic care and resources. 

This week, the government seemingly made an about-face on Consumption and Treatment Sites (also referred to as overdose prevention sites). For months, Minister of Health Sylvia Jones has claimed that sites within 200 meters of a school or childcare centre, which are being forced to close due to government legislation (tabled without public consultation or committee review), would not be allowed to reopen in any new location. However, this week, government lawyers at the Ontario Superior Court contradicted the Health Minister. They stated that CTS sites would be free to reopen if they moved to a location in line with the new boundary rules. 

This court case is ongoing, and I will be monitoring the issue closely as it profoundly affects Ontario’s healthcare system. Research has shown that if these sites go away, people who use drugs do not go away. They will continue to use drugs in their neighbourhoods. We can expect to see more unsupervised drug use and more overdoses. That is not the kind of community that anyone wants to live in. The current sites are not perfect - underfunded and understaffed - but they are lifesaving and give access to additional health care and housing support to those who are deeply vulnerable. Instead of closure, they deserve government support to improve safety and quality of life for the neighbourhoods they are a part of. 

Depending on the crescent moon sighting, on Sunday or Monday, Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid and mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In celebration, I handed out Palestinian Medjool dates to community members this week as they prepared to break their day-long fast. These delicious Jericho-grown dates come from the West Bank in Palestine and are some of the largest and sweetest I have ever eaten. 

I am looking forward to celebrating with the community and distributing even more Palestinian dates over the weekend. Ramadan Mubarak!

A winter storm is coming to Ontario this weekend, bringing an expected heavy accumulation of rain and snow. I encourage you to stay informed as weather updates come in, practice caution when navigating roads and sidewalks, stay home if the weather is unsafe, and check up on your vulnerable neighbours. Power outages are also possible, so be prepared. Together, we will get through this!

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ontario Nurses: Safe Staffing Saves Lives
• 75 Ontario CEOs Call on Ford to Support Homegrown Tech
• Street Haven’s 60th Anniversary
• My Interview with Regent Park TV
• Monday is Trans Day of Visibility
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

On Wednesday, the Ontario NDP Caucus met with the Ontario Nurses Association and learned even more about how Ontario nurses are holding our healthcare system together with sheer will. Patient-to-nurse ratios are out of control, nurses are leaving the profession in droves due to burnout and disrespect, and private nursing agencies are snapping up nurses only to redeploy them to our public hospitals at exorbitant rates.  Meanwhile, thousands of internationally and interprovincially trained nurses are here in Ontario, waiting to be approved to work in Ontario and alleviate so much suffering. 

High patient-to-nurse ratios drastically increase the risk of errors, accidents, patient death, and nurse burnout. In Ontario, we sometimes experience ratios as high as 10 patients to one nurse. France Gelinas, Ontario NDP critic for Healthcare, recently tabled a private members bill that would have mandated 4:1 patient-to-nurse ratios, a ratio used in both BC and Australia. The Ford government failed to meet the moment and voted it down. 

This week, the Council of Canadian Innovators published an open letter signed by 75 CEOs based in Ontario. The letter laid out a list of policies that these CEOs believe would function to “reclaim control over [Ontario’s] economic destiny.”

The letter openly criticizes Ford’s focus on foreign direct investment, or the process of bringing international companies to Ontario to set up large production facilities, over the nurturing of businesses already rooted here in Ontario. The signatories argue that much more needs to be done to capitalize on the natural resources, domestic talent, and data that we have right here in Ontario to grow Ontario businesses into economic powerhouses. I couldn’t agree more. Many Ontario small and medium size business owners have the drive to grow, but need support to go up against giant multinationals. The Ontario government can and should prioritize domestic companies in their procurement practices and create an environment of investment in Ontario. 

These arguments echo what I have been hearing from local business leaders and regular folks out in the community. People want to buy Canadian. They want to support their local stores, suppliers, and producers, but they need the government to get behind them and provide the regulatory environment and funding support to make that push happen. 

I am currently working alongside MPP Chris Glover to host a business roundtable, as I have done in the past. I am looking forward to bringing these business perspectives back to Queen’s Park when the session begins in two weeks’ time. I am always proud to be a voice for local businesses in the chamber!

For 60 years, Street Haven at the Crossroads has been a port in the storm for women across Toronto as a place of shelter and care. It was an honour to participate in their 60th Anniversary Gala, which recognized the founder, Peggy Ann Walpole, a nurse and Governor General award winner and the outstanding contributions of staff, clients, and sponsors to the betterment of our community and women across Toronto.

At Queen's Park, I am committed to pushing the Ford government for more investments in affordable housing, mental health support, and addiction-centred programs. Street Haven has proven itself to be an exceptional housing and shelter provider—let's support them as they write the next exciting chapter of their story.

This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Regent Park TV’s Gabriel Meissner to discuss critical issues affecting local communities, especially those in Regent Park, St. James Town, and Moss Park. We spoke about the trade war we find ourselves in with the US, rent control, government investment in affordable housing, and public healthcare. You can watch the whole interview here.

This upcoming Monday is Trans Day of Visibility, a day when trans people and their allies come together to celebrate the joy of belonging to the trans community, lift up local trans artists, and enjoy each other's company. 

The Toronto Trans Alliance is hosting a celebration at Glad Day this Sunday, complete with performances, film screenings, karaoke, and a midnight reading of the City of Toronto's proclamation of the Trans Day of Visibility. 

The 519 is also hosting a public information session about Trans Day of Visibility and how we can all be better allies to Trans folks in our communities. Sign up here.

Amid Canada's largest measles outbreak in more than a decade, experts say this COVID-era tool could help | CBC News

Ontario consumption sites free to relocate, court hears, contrary to past statements | CBC News

The Ontario legislature has never elected a female Speaker. That ‘remarkable moment’ may finally be arriving

Ontario students with special needs wait years to get help — and funding for them has worsened under Doug Ford, unions say

The 519 is offering a free Finance & Tax Literacy Workshop to support self-employed community members in building financial confidence and managing tax obligations with ease.

Event Details:

• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
• Date: Saturday, March 29
  
• Time: 2-4 PM
• RSVP here

This session is designed for sole proprietors, including:

• Artists and performers
  
• Tradespeople and contractors
  
• Anyone running a small business, freelance service, or passion project
  
  

Note: This workshop focuses on sole proprietorships and does not cover incorporated businesses.

Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) is a time to honour the resilience, brilliance, and rights of trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. In this public session, we’ll explore the roots and significance of days like TDOV and the vital role each of us can play in defending human rights for trans communities —especially amidst rising hostility and misinformation.

What you'll gain:

• Historical context and human rights framing for days of trans significance
• Tools to recognize and interrupt transphobia and cissexism
• Concrete actions to practice meaningful, trans-affirming allyship

Date: Monday, March 31, 2025

Time: 3pm

Location: Online

Click here to register.

Get ready for an afternoon of activities, storytelling and music. Borrow a Grandparent brings older and younger generations together for an afternoon of games and fun.

Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre (402 Shuter St.), Banquet Room

April is BeADonor Month, an annual campaign led by Trillium Gift of Life Network to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation. This month encourages:

• Registering as a donor
  
• Having important conversations with loved ones about donation wishes
  
• Sharing information to inspire others to register
  
  

Key Facts:

• In 2023, 341 deceased donors in Ontario enabled 1,035 organ transplants.
  
• 1,975 tissue donors enhanced the lives of thousands.
  
• One donor can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of up to 75 others through tissue donation.
  
• Nearly 1,400 people in Ontario are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.
  
  

Since 2003, almost 25,000 Ontarians have received a second chance at life through transplants — but the need remains urgent.

More information and donor registration are available at BeADonor.ca.

TransCare+ invites community members to the Trans Care Fair 2025, a full afternoon dedicated to trans wellbeing, empowerment, and connection.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
  
• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  
• Location: The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street, Toronto)
  
• RSVP here

Allies are welcome in solidarity. Admission is free, and the space is fully accessible.

Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win – Support Local and Win Prizes
The Cabbagetown BIA invites community members to take part in Shop Cabbagetown 2 Win, a neighbourhood-wide shop local campaign running April 14-May 25, 2025.

• What it is: Shop at participating Cabbagetown businesses and enter to win weekly prizes.
  
• How to enter: Spend $25 or more at any participating business, then upload the receipt to the campaign website.
  
• Prizes: Weekly gift cards from local shops and restaurants.
  
• Final draw: All entries are eligible for a grand prize gift card bundle.
  

This initiative celebrates and supports small businesses while offering a fun way to connect with the Cabbagetown community.

More details and a list of participating businesses are available at shopcabbagetown2win.com.

The City of Toronto's Local Leadership Grant is now open! 

As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), the Local Leadership Grant of $5,000 that supports resident-led projects that support local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic-decision making, physical surroundings, and social development - across all neighbourhoods. The Local Leadership Grant prioritizes the leadership and participation of Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving groups within Neighbourhood Improvement Areas, Emerging Neighbourhoods, and other communities of focus. 

Applicants must be a resident-led group consisting of at least 3 members who live in Toronto but do not live in the same household.

Group projects must offer community-based activities related to at least one of the five domains of TSNS (i.e., economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in decision-making, social development and physical surroundings) of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy.

• Grant Opens: Monday March 17, 2025 at 12 PM
• Grant Closes: Monday April 28, 2025 at 12 PM

Click Here to submit your online application.

Click here to learn about the online information sessions and grant office hours to support you with your application. 

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!
📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members. 

Sherbourne Health is offering mental health support groups for Black, African, Caribbean, and Multiracial 2SLGBTQ+ youth. These programs provide a space to build community, explore mental health, and develop wellness strategies.

Program Details:

Resilient Roots

A five-session training for Black 2SLGBTQ+ youth with lived mental health or substance use experience. Participants will develop peer support skills and explore mental health, harm reduction, and self-care.

•  Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM | March 3 – 31

Rise & Thrive

A program designed to celebrate cultural foods, foster community, and explore mental well-being.

• Rise:  Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 4 – April 15
• Thrive:  Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 5 – April 16

Levelling Minds (Online Program)

A nine-week series offering stress management tools and mental health strategies.

•  Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 6 – May 1

For more details and to register, click here.

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]

Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

Not Far From The Tree is inviting community members to register their fruit trees for the 2025 harvesting season. A team of volunteers will pick the fruit and divide it three ways:

• ⅓ is kept by the tree owner
• ⅓ is shared among the volunteer pickers
• ⅓ is donated to a community agency supporting food programs

Impact of Participation:

• Helps provide fresh fruit to local food programs feeding thousands each month
• Creates opportunities for community connection and sharing
• Reduces food waste while turning fruit trees into a source of nourishment

Membership & Registration:

To support Toronto’s urban harvest, tree registrants are asked to become members with a $40 seasonal contribution, which helps cover harvest costs and expand the program. Yard cleanup of fallen fruit is also included. Memberships expire annually on January 1st.

For more details and to register, visit: www.notfarfromthetree.org.

The Government of Canada invites nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made a meaningful difference through volunteerism.

Nominations are now open until May 8th for those who have shown exceptional commitment to improving the lives of others in their communities.

Award Categories:

• National Award: Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award
  
• Regional Awards:
  
  • Community Leader
  • Emerging Leader
  • Business Leader
  • Social Innovator

Nominees can include individuals, not-for-profit organizations, social enterprises, and socially responsible businesses. Multiple nominations are welcome.

Award recipients will be honoured at a national ceremony and will have the opportunity to direct a $10,000 (national) or $5,000 (regional) grant to a not-for-profit organization of their choice.

Learn more or submit a nomination at Canada.ca/volunteer-awards 

Questions can be directed to [email protected] or by calling 1-877-825-0434.

The 519’s Health Justice Program invites community members to an important discussion on Community Violence and Healing, part of the Talking Justice series.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  
• Location: In person at The 519 (519 Church Street) or virtually
  
• Tickets: Free (Presto tickets and snacks provided)
  
  

Bianca Braganza, MSc, JD/BCL, Pro Bono Lawyer with The 519’s Combatting 2SLGBTQ+ BIPOC Hate and Racism Program, will lead a conversation exploring:

• Community and structural violence
  
• Social determinants of health in relation to crime and justice
  
• Alternative approaches to safety and justice
  
  

The 519 is a fully accessible space with all-gender washrooms. Additional accessibility supports are available upon request during registration.

RSVP preferred at The519.org/hjprog 

Dear Emma,

Yesterday, I was officially sworn in as the MPP for Toronto Centre. This was my fifth time taking an oath of public office, but this time, I found myself feeling more nervous and emotional than I had during previous ceremonies. When I reflected on it later, I realized that it was the presence of so many friends, colleagues, and community members looking on that brought up these emotions. I so dearly want to do right by them and everyone in our community, and seeing all of their faces as I took the oath really brought that commitment home. The Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Trevor Day, who administered the oath, also reminded me of how very special this honour is. Since confederation, fewer than 2,000 people have taken the oath to become an Ontario MPP. To be one of them feels incredibly profound. 

Every day, I feel honoured to hold public office and serve the people of Toronto Centre and the communities that I love. Yesterday was a beautiful ceremonial celebration of that honour, which I will always cherish. I want to thank all of the people who stood with me as I took my oath and everyone in Toronto Centre for putting their trust in me. I do not take it lightly and will work hard every day to live up to our shared ideals. 

Jumping from one election to another, the Ottawa rumour mill has been spinning for weeks and now it seems to have settled - reliable sources are telling us that the federal election will be called this coming Sunday, in just two days, and that election day will be on either April 28 or May 5. Those details are still to be determined, as a federal election campaign lasts between 36 and 50 days in Canada. 

Luckily, here in Toronto Centre, we are ready to go. Local resident and family physician, Dr. Samantha Green, our fantastic candidate, has been knocking on doors for almost a year already and has an amazing campaign team behind her. Meanwhile, the Liberals do not yet have a candidate after Marci Ien announced two weeks ago that she would not run again. 

Samatha’s campaign is so prepared that they are having an office opening on Sunday, the day of the writ drop, and you are invited!!!

Join me, Samantha, community leader Danyaal Raza, and progressives in Toronto Centre at 1 PM this Sunday at 655 Dundas Street East to officially open Samantha’s office and ensure that we send a true progressive voice to Ottawa.

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Ford’s Cabinet Announcement
• Renewed Assault on Gaza
• Standing up for St Lawrence Co-op Daycare
• Ford: Canada as the 51st state is a “Compliment”
• Meeting with Peggy Nash’s Women in the House Students
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

On Wednesday, Doug Ford announced his new cabinet. It is largely unchanged and fails to meet the moment Ontario is in. Now is a time for bright new thinkers to come up with creative solutions, not more of the same cut-and-privatize Ministers.

People are worried about the future of our province and our country. They are struggling to afford groceries; they can’t find a family doctor or an affordable place to live. Yet, this cabinet includes the same Minister of Transportation who couldn’t open a transit line, the same Minister of Health who downplayed the doctor shortage, and the same Minister of Infrastructure who spent weeks dodging basic questions. The cabinet includes 29 ministers and 8 associate ministers, making it one of the largest and most expensive in Ontario’s history. 

While there was little change, one swap left me chilled to the bone: Paul Calandra will be the new Minister of Education. Political watchers will remember that Calandra was Ford’s Government house leader until last year and before that an MP under PM Stephen Harper. In both roles he was known as a political spin doctor, the kind of person who you wanted in your corner when you had to break some bad news and didn’t want to take any criticism. Calandra has the unique skill of being able to yell a bunch of nonsense at you in a way that is both intimidating and convincing until you take a moment to understand what he actually said, which is nothing. This appointment raises alarm about the kinds of cuts Ford conservatives will bring down on our public education system, which is already in tatters. 

The Ontario NDP will soon announce our shadow cabinet, a team full of MPPs ready to rise to meet this challenging moment, by fighting rising costs, investing in building homes, hiring doctors, and building a tariff-proof economy. They can count on Ontario's Official Opposition NDP to keep up that fight at Queen’s Park and across the province to hold Doug Ford’s Conservatives to account every single day.

Just like many of you, I have felt horror and grief as images of death and destruction have poured out of Gaza again this week. On Tuesday, Israel broke the ceasefire and resumed the relentless bombing of civilians, in addition to shutting of electricity, water, and aid trucks carrying food and medical supplies to the region. 

The people of Gaza have been through far too much. They were just taking their first breaths, returning to their homes, and reuniting with loved ones. And now they have been plunged back into the horrors of genocide. 

The ceasefire agreement must be honoured on all sides. But instead, the innocent civilians of Gaza, including thousands of children, are paying the price. Doctors are again being asked to make impossible decisions about which child to save and which to let die, simply because of a lack of resources. This is unconscionable and the Canadian government must stand up to Trump and Netanyahu. I am so proud of the NDP’s advocacy on this issue, but they need more voices to join them. I encourage you to write to PM Carney and local MPs to urge them to act and speak out for the people of Gaza who are experiencing relentless suffering right now. 

Toronto Centre’s St. Lawrence Co-op Day Care is facing challenges meeting the governments strict standards for permanent outdoor play spaces. This week, I wrote to the Minister of Education to request that the Ministry take into account the unique urban context in which the daycare is situated, and the fact that they are currently meeting the outdoor play space requirements, just with a temporary space. 

I am hopeful that the daycare will be able to continue to operate, providing excellent care for our little ones and solutions for working families. You can read the full letter here.

On Tuesday, Doug Ford said that the American threat to make Canada their 51st state is a “compliment.” This made my blood boil. How could a threat of hostile takeover and a lack of respect for our sovereignty ever be taken as a compliment? 

I am proud to stand up for Canada, our values, our public assets, and our people. We are not simply resources, but a strong nation that deserves respect. We have many problems, the largest among them our historic and present lack of respect for the sovereignty of Indigenous nations on this land we call Canada, but that will never be solved by infringement on our borders by our southern neighbour. I will do absolutely everything that I can to hold Ford accountable and make sure that he is not giving anything up to the Americans.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of sitting down for a conversation with three students from Peggy Nash’s Women in the House course. They asked such thoughtful and engaging questions which lead to a lively conversation about representation, justice, and human rights in our houses of government. It was so inspiring to engage with the next generation of leaders, and I so appreciated their curiosity and passion for learning. I can’t wait to see what they do next!

Removing bike lanes will likely worsen gridlock, lead to more collisions: government documents

Hudson's Bay hopes to save 6 stores, which could protect some of its 9,364 jobsNews

Toronto charity to open affordable housing for homeless women

Hundreds of nurses rally outside Ontario hospitals to demand safer staffing levels

TDSB to vote on controversial fundraising change some call a ‘tariff on parent donations’

Mayor Olivia Chow asking city to accept $50-million pledge from Weston foundation to revamp Queen’s Park North

Head of Canada’s high speed rail project wants it to run into downtown Toronto

Sherbourne Health is offering mental health support groups for Black, African, Caribbean, and Multiracial 2SLGBTQ+ youth. These programs provide a space to build community, explore mental health, and develop wellness strategies.

Program Details:

Resilient Roots

A five-session training for Black 2SLGBTQ+ youth with lived mental health or substance use experience. Participants will develop peer support skills and explore mental health, harm reduction, and self-care.
📅 Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM | March 3 – 31

Rise & Thrive

A program designed to celebrate cultural foods, foster community, and explore mental well-being.

• Rise: 📅 Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 4 – April 15
• Thrive: 📅 Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 5 – April 16

Levelling Minds (Online Program)

A nine-week series offering stress management tools and mental health strategies.
📅 Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM | March 6 – May 1

For more details and to register, click here. 

The Centre of Learning & Development, in partnership with Mothers of Peace, Arthubs, and the City of Toronto, invites the community to the Eid Bazaar at Daniels Spectrum. This Eid celebration will showcase local vendors offering henna, jewelry, clothing, food, and more while bringing the community together.

📅 Dates: March 6, 12, 19, 26
⏰ Time: 2:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St E)

For questions or vendor inquiries, contact Sureya at [email protected] or 647-493-2462 ext. 112.

Connect Fund is hosting live music and performance to raise money to help pay for gender-affirming care not covered by provincial health care. Help them raise funds for folks who need help. All proceeds from ticket sales and merch will go directly to people who need care. 

Across Canada, 2SLGBTQ+ people face higher levels of poverty. They face a lack of culturally-competent healthcare providers. They face long wait times to get care. They can face discrimination when they do receive it. With the Connect Fund, at least they won’t have to worry about how to pay for care on top of all of that. 

 📅 Thursday, March 28, 2024
🕕 6:00 PM – Late
📍 The Great Hall, 1087 Queen Street West

Click here for tickets

• Celebrate queer culture and community impact
• Enjoy drag performances, DJs, dancing, and more
• Funds raised will support Connect’s ongoing gender affirming care work

TNG Community Services and St. James Town Community Corner invite community members to a Free Repair Café on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM (registration closes at 3:00 PM). The event takes place at 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, and is wheelchair accessible.

Skilled volunteers will help repair broken household items, including:

• Computers
• Small appliances
• Home electronics
• General housewares
• Clothing and jewelry
• Bikes and toys
• Books and paper items
  (One item per person)

Volunteers with repair skills are also welcome to participate.

For more information, contact:

• Touhida Choudhury: 416-925-4363 x2521 or [email protected]
• Alaa: 416-964-6657 x240 or [email protected]

Neighbourhood Information Post invites young artists to a free art class with renowned Toronto-based artist Benny Bing! This is a great opportunity for youth to explore creativity and learn from a celebrated contemporary artist.

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025
🕟 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Benny Bing Studio, 35 Tubman Ave, Suite 103, Toronto, ON M5A 0T1
👩‍🎨 For youth ages 10 to 16

• Learn from Benny Bing, known for his bold use of colour and artwork exploring Black identity, gender, and humanity
• Hands-on creative experience in an inspiring studio environment
• Free to attend, registration required

📩 Register here
📞 For more information, contact 416-924-2543 ext. 224 or email [email protected].

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

The Regent Park Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its 2025 festival!
📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024
🎥 Open to: Canadian and international filmmakers
📍 Submissions accepted online

• Welcomes films from Black, Indigenous, and racialized creators, as well as those from marginalized communities
• All genres and formats considered, including features, shorts, documentaries, and animation
• Free to submit

The festival prioritizes stories that reflect social justice, community, and the realities of those living in underrepresented spaces.

The festival is also hiring! Click here for Job Opportunities, and Call for Board Members. 

Are you looking for free or affordable mental health support? Family Service Toronto offers just that! They are part of Family Service Toronto network, the only network in Ontario that provides free and low cost couples and family therapy in addition to individual counselling. 

To learn more about their resources and get connected to support visit ontariocounsellingfinder.ca. 

Dear friend,

I am so excited to return with my first formal newsletter as your re-elected MPP for Toronto Centre! I am honoured that you have placed your trust in me once again, and I promise to do everything in my power, alongside all of you, to make our communities the safest, most prosperous, and most dynamic places possible.

I will be returning to Queen’s Park alongside a powerhouse Ontario NDP team, who will again be forming the province’s Official Opposition. I am looking forward to continuing to hold this government to account alongside my colleagues, new and returning, though I will miss my friend Jill Andrew, the former MPP for Toronto-St. Pauls, dearly. As always happens when an election is called, the order papers are wiped clean, and committees stop all work. This means that all bills that were partway through the legislative process have to start from the beginning again, including my Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic bill. It is unclear what will happen with the sub-committee study on intimate partner violence, which is in the report-writing stage. I understand that the report writing has stopped, but that the government could revive and complete it. Right now, I am optimistic about this. 

The government has announced that it will not recall the legislature until April 14, despite the existential threats we are currently experiencing from the government south of the border. Tariffs are an economic weapon, and we need a team Ontario approach to tackling them. I am proud to be part of a party that will stand with workers every step of the way as we fight to protect our province, but to do that properly, we need to recall the Legislature immediately. I am ready to work with the government to tariff-proof Ontario and protect jobs from the chaotic and ever-changing policies south of the border. You deserve a government that is proactively protecting jobs and working alongside the federal government, as well as other provincial and territorial governments, to coordinate a strong and unified response. 

We need a strong and united Team Ontario more than ever, as we are about to dive headfirst into a federal election any day now. Mark Carney won the federal Liberal leadership race and was sworn in as Prime Minister today. He will likely call the election in the coming days or weeks. Last week, our local MP, Marci Ien, announced she would not seek re-election. I am very thankful to Marci for her service to our communities and country, and wish her all the best as she moves into this new chapter. 

I am looking forward to this federal election on a local level because we have such a remarkable NDP candidate in Dr. Samantha Green. Smart, effective, compassionate and hardworking are just some words I would use to describe my personal observations and working experience with Samantha. She has been showing up for our Toronto Centre communities at a local and national level for decades. As a family doctor in Regent Park at the St Michael’s Hospital Sumac Creek Health Centre, she directly cares for community members as they navigate health challenges. As a mother, she is raising the next generation of Ontarians, who will make our province a prosperous and beautiful place. As a member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, she works with other physicians to conquer the existential threat of climate change through a health lens. And as a Jewish supporter of Palestinian human rights, she speaks out for peace in Israel and Palestine, for a future where all people can live peacefully and equitably in the region. 

I am in awe of Samantha, and I know that she will be an excellent Member of Parliament because she is already putting in the work to represent our communities and fight for a more equitable and just world in our backyard and at the national level. I have the utmost faith in Dr. Samantha Green and am proud to stand with her as she runs to be our next Member of Parliament.

Samantha and her campaign team are canvassing nearly every day in anticipation of a snap federal election, and they need your help! Sign up to volunteer here and join a fantastic team of dedicated community members who know we need Samantha in Ottawa! 

This March is a month rich with faith celebrations. I want to wish a joyful Purim to all of our Jewish community members. Purim is a time to celebrate resilience, hope, and standing up against adversity, which is incredibly topical right now. I hope everyone celebrating spends joyful time with loved ones. Chag Purim Sameach!

Holi is also being celebrated today by our Hindu neighbours. I wish everyone celebrating a fun-filled and colourful celebration of the coming spring! 

I also want to send greetings to community members observing Ramadan and Lent right now. We can all learn so much from these times of fasting, restraint, and reflection. I hope that your fasts and their breakings bring you clarity, peace, spiritual strength, and connection with loved ones. 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Workers Must Be Prioritized Amid Tariff Frenzy
• Supreme Court Strikes Down Ford’s Attempt to Silence Dissent
• Eglinton-Crosstown to Open September 2025?
• CWNA Launches GoFundMe to Take on Developers
• Dundas-Sherbourne Community Action Plan
• Celebrating International Women’s Day with Steelworkers
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

Trump’s reckless and constantly shifting tariff threats, now focused on steel and aluminum, are risking jobs on both sides of the border. 

To weather this storm, we need a strong, coordinated response to fight back hard. We also need to ensure that workers’ incomes are protected, no matter what happens, so they can withstand whatever Trump throws at us in the coming days and weeks. 

Since Trump's original tariff threats, the Ontario NDP has been ready to work together with all parties and all levels of government to protect jobs, prevent plant shutdowns and help strengthen our domestic market. We need a team Ontario and Team Canada approach, which is why we need to recall the Ontario Legislature immediately to deal with this crisis. Ford called an early election to secure a 90 to 100 seat majority, which he falsely claimed was necessary to prove he had a mandate from Ontarians to deal with Trump. Now with a lesser majority than he had at the start of the election, Ford is refusing to recall the legislature. He is shutting out the opposition parties and the voices of people from communities all across this province, who deserve to have their perspectives shared and listened to by the government. 

Last Friday, the Supreme Court of Canada struck down Doug Ford’s unconstitutional law to limit third-party campaign spending. Ford used the notwithstanding law to limit election participation from teachers, health care workers, families, and labour unions, using taxpayer dollars to continue fighting them in court.

Doug Ford has been handed yet another defeat in court after he wasted more taxpayer dollars fighting to silence critics and defend unconstitutional laws. Ford is all too quick to pull the trigger on the Notwithstanding clause, especially if it means targeting those impacted the most by his record of bad policies and cuts – like teachers, health care workers, families, and unions.

Ontarians deserve a healthy democracy where they can cast an informed ballot. Civil society is a core pillar of Ontario’s democracy that should be allowed to flourish and engage in our elections. It is too bad that this ruling comes on the tail of a provincial election, but I am thrilled that civil society voices will no longer be muzzled by the government in future elections. This defeat should be a wake-up call for Ford.

On Thursday evening, the Toronto Star reported that it had received credible information from two anonymous sources stating that the long-awaited Eglinton Crosstown will open in September 2025. Construction and testing are slated to be fully complete by June, at which time the crosstown will be handed off to the TTC, which will operate the line. The TTC will take from June to September to get everything up and running on their end. 

This is not the first time that we have seen a projected opening date for the Eglinton Crosstown. All of those dates have passed us by, and the project is nearly five years late, 50% over its 10-year original timeline. I know 14-year-olds who have been waiting for the Crosstown for their entire lives! 

I am hopeful that this new opening date is the final one. Torontonians deserve this line and have waited far too long for it on crowded subways, streetcars, and busses. Small business owners have waited for years while their storefronts were covered by construction hoarding. And local residents have endured traffic, noise, and disruptions for far too long. I hope that this is a lesson to Metrolinx and this government that Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) are not how large infrastructure projects should be built. They result in massive delays, cost overruns, corner-cutting, and legal battles that grind construction to a halt (as happened many times on this project). We all deserve better than P3s, we deserve public infrastructure built publicly! 

I can’t wait to take my first ride on the Crosstown and hope to do so this September!

The Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association is always standing up for the community, but now they have taken on a new and ambitious project and need your help. 

A new 28-storey tower is being proposed on the site currently occupied by the Pizza Pizza. The City of Toronto denied the developer application, but it is now being appealed at the Ontario Land Tribunal. 

Community members are extremely concerned that, if approved, this development could set a precedent and open the door to more mega-developments along the historic Church-Wellesley Village strip. This could erode the neighbourhood's character and spell the end of the 2SLGBQIA+ business district, an economic and cultural hub and a safe space for many. 

The City of Toronto has an existing plan for the Village strip, which emphasizes sensitive low-scale infill that respects the existing character, including the fine-grain retail and low-rise scale. This kind of development will support the neighbourhood and allow it to continue to exist. Developments like this are an existential threat to the neighbourhood. 

The Ontario Land Tribunal has granted the CWNA party status, which is already a huge win. However, they must retain legal counsel and an expert witness to make an impact. They are working in support of the City and their initial refusal of the development, but the CWNA is uniquely positioned to express how this development will negatively impact the Village. Their participation is critical. 

CWNA needs to raise $50,000 by June 30 to underwrite the professional fees for participating in the hearing. I encourage you to learn more about their campaign here and to share it with your networks. 

Attention everyone who lives, works and is committed to the Dundas-Sherbourne neighbourhood! The City of Toronto is looking for your feedback on a new Community Action Plan for the area. 

We all know that this intersection is a challenging area, with many critical services for those in crisis immediately abutting historic residential areas and criminal actors preying on vulnerable people. But it is also an extraordinary neighbourhood full of people who love and care for each other and don’t want to see people marginalized by the place they call home. I am hopeful that this new action plan will provide strong support for the neighbourhood and its challenges in a way that is sensitive to all residents. But the only way we can achieve that is if all voices are heard! 

Click here to share your thoughts, and make sure to share the survey with others who frequent the area. I look forward to the outcome of this survey and the work that will follow to make the neighbourhood more accepting, safer, and more vibrant for all.

It was an honour to join the United Steelworkers at their Mary Spratt Breakfast last Saturday to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) alongside Dr. Samantha Green. IWD is a time for feminists to come together, reflect on all we have accomplished, and set new goals for the year ahead.

The Ontario NDP and I will continue the ongoing fight for women's and workers' rights, something we need now more than ever. Women united can never be defeated!

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The City of Toronto remains committed to revitalizing George Street to better serve vulnerable residents and the broader community. The project will replace the existing Seaton House men’s shelter with a smaller emergency shelter and an all-gender transitional shelter, while also introducing a state-of-the-art long-term care home, supportive housing, and a community hub with essential programs and services.

The George Street Revitalization (GSR) Stakeholder Reference Group (SRG) brings together key community stakeholders to receive updates and provide input on the project’s programs. Previously paused due to the City’s COVID-19 response and recent changes in the project’s delivery model, the SRG will resume engagement in 2025.

As part of this process, the project team will be available at an upcoming in-person meeting led by City Planning:

📅 Date: February 25, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: John Innes Community Centre (150 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON)
📢 Meeting Type: Open house format

A dedicated Stakeholder Reference Group meeting is planned for fall 2025. Those interested in attending can register here.

For more details on the George Street Revitalization and the SRG, visit toronto.ca/NewGeorge.

The Centre of Learning & Development, in partnership with Mothers of Peace, Arthubs, and the City of Toronto, invites the community to the Eid Bazaar at Daniels Spectrum. This Eid celebration will showcase local vendors offering henna, jewelry, clothing, food, and more while bringing the community together.

📅 Dates: March 6, 12, 19, 26
⏰ Time: 2:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St E)

For questions or vendor inquiries, contact Sureya at [email protected] or 647-493-2462 ext. 112.

Yonge Street Mission is hosting a Community Development Training Series, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to support community development efforts and strengthen impact. Sessions will be facilitated by YSM Community Development Specialists and cover key topics in engagement, evaluation, and facilitation.

📅 Dates & Topics:

• February 25 – Community Engagement & Ownership
• April 29 – Measurement & Evaluation
• June 24 – Meeting Facilitation

⏰ Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Format: Hybrid (In-person location TBC)

📌 Registration deadline: One week before each session.

For more details, contact [email protected] or click here to register on Eventbrite.

Are you looking for free or affordable mental health support? Family Service Toronto offers just that! They are part of Family Service Toronto network, the only network in Ontario that provides free and low cost couples and family therapy in addition to individual counselling. 

To learn more about their resources and get connected to support visit ontariocounsellingfinder.ca. 

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

• 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

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. 

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.

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

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. 

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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!

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].

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
• 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!

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.

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.

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 is excited to announce the opening of its winter exhibition season, featuring three captivating exhibitions and a special artist talk:

• 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.
• 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!

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)
• 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.

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 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].

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:

• Dates:
  • 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).
  • January 30, 2025 (10 AM–6 PM):
    • Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
    • 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.
• 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].

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 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. 

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

Google map and directions

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

• 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

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.

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 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. 

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!

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.

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!

• Rainbow Health Ontario
• Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
• The Harm Reduction Collective
• FAIR Association

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

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. 

Click here to register.

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
• 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.

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)
• 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.

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:

• Dates:
  • 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).
  • January 30, 2025 (10 AM–6 PM):
    • Donation collection, recycling services, and hazardous waste drop-off
    • 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.
• 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].

Dear Neighbour,

2024 has been an incredibly eventful year. Let's look back on everything we did together. 

As always, it is an honour to fight for you and our communities,

Kristyn Wong-Tam

p.s. We are nearly at our fundraising goal — can you help us get over the finish line? 

Dear Neighbour,

What a week it has been in politics!

This week's headline that shook Ottawa was the bombshell resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Today Prime Minister Trudeau shuffled his cabinet.  

This cabinet shuffle is lipstick on a pig. It captures the adage — Liberal, Tory, same old story. Politicians who will cling on to power by rewarding their insider friends while ignoring what everyday people are facing. 

I want to echo NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh’s calls for Trudeau to resign. It’s time for Trudeau to touch grass and talk to Canadian families struggling in every community. 

In provincial politics, this week had another bombshell report that Doug Ford is hoping Trudeau’s news buries: the Financial Accountability Office (FAO) damning report into education funding and the schools repair backlog. 

The report confirms our worst fears: the crisis in our schools of crumbling infrastructure is going from bad under the former Liberal government to worse under Doug Ford. 

 Here are the highlights you should know:

• 84% of TDSB schools are below a state of good repair

• Ontario has a $12.7 billion shortfall over the next ten years because Ford won’t maintain and repair schools — this means the number of schools below a state of good repair will continue getting worse

• Ford Conservatives have cut school funding by $1,500 per student since 2018

• In 2024 alone, Ford further slashed education funding by $300 million

• Under Ford, Ontario has the lowest per-student funding in more than ten years

I want to echo what Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles is saying: "It means leaky roofs. It means classrooms that hit freezing temperatures in the winter and stifling heat in the summer. It means asbestos in our walls and lead in our drinking water, and students learning in portables that should have been replaced decades ago. It is unacceptable."

This isn’t an abstract problem: it is happening right here in Toronto Centre. I had personally visited Jarvis Collegiate with our progressive education champion and TDSB Trustee Deborah Williams. A beloved high school in our community has classrooms that are abandoned and collapsing because of the choices Liberal and Conservative governments make. 

I also want to say thank you to everyone who volunteered us this year — thank you, thank you, thank you! With your ongoing support, we continue to get ready for Ford’s snap election call rumoured to take place this spring. On Wednesday we had our final door-to-door canvass of the year and we had a superb volunteer turn-out — and last evening we had our final phone-canvass with even more positive reception. I would love for you to join us in the new year — you can sign up to volunteer here.

And of course, I am wishing you, your family, your friends, your chosen family, and your community a warm and relaxing holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year to all!

For everyone needing support over the break, we are so lucky to have many organizations providing food, warmth, and community care during this season. Some exceptional local organizations worth knowing about over the break are:

• Yonge Street Mission
• Fred Victor
• Muslim Welfare Canada
• Calling 211 will also connect you with a full list of helpful service providers in our neighbourhoods. 
• You can also find an updated list of City of Toronto Warming Centres at this link.

Finally, my team and I happily research, write, edit and send out 50 weekly newsletters like this one every year. I'm sure you would agree, it's time to give the hardworking writing elves a little Christmas break and family time.

Our community newsletters will resume after the first week of the New Year. I am so looking forward to returning in the new year with updates and to continuing to connect with you all. In the meantime, I wish all of you a happy, bright, and safe holiday season, whether you are celebrating or simply enjoying the slower pace as we end the year 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

p.s. My campaign manager is reminding me to ask you for a year-end donation to ensure you get your tax credit back in time for tax season. Thank you! 

• You're Invited to My New Year's Levee
• Remembering Raji Sivasubramaniam
• Get Ready With Me: Political Edition
• Local Arts Organizations Receive Trillium Grants!
• Welcoming Artisan MRKT and Sans Coiffure to Toronto Centre
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

This new year I am excited to announce that my office will be holding a New Years Levee! On January 26, 2025 from 2 – 4 PM at Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St. E) we will gather for free coffee, hot chocolate and cookies!

I was saddened to learn that a pillar of our community — Raji Sivasubramaniam — passed away on December 7. Raji was a pillar of our communities in St. James Town and Regent Park. He regularly called my office to connect his neighbours to support and community resources. He cared about his community with his whole heart. Raji lived a life of service for others and will be dearly missed. I also want to thank the St. James Town Corner for organizing a bus to Mississauga so that his friends could join his funeral service last weekend. Your life and impact will not be forgotten Raji. Friends and neighbours are invited to sign the digital condolences book here.

Before the House rose, I recorded this humourous video sharing my best secrets for getting ready for Question Period. I hope you enjoy it! ;) 

Joining Cababgetown Community Arts for their recital is an annual holiday joy! Thank you to the staff, volunteers, students, parents, & donors who are the backbone of Cabbagetown Community Arts and make everything possible. I firmly believe that connecting young people to the arts will open doors for them in transformative ways. You can learn about what they do at https://www.cabbagetownarts.org/. 

This week I was thrilled to recognize the Young Centre for the Performing Arts accomplishment in receiving a Trillium Grant to support their work delivering high quality arts programming for young people in our community. You can check them out at https://youngcentre.ca  and consider bringing little ones in your life to see Alligator Pie presented by Soulpepper Theatre!

I visited two growing small businesses in Toronto Centre who you should know about! Artisan MRKT by Jenna Lee is a vibrant new space celebrating Canadian artisans and entrepreneurs. You can visit this inspiring hub of creativity at 503 Parliament St. Toronto and https://artisanmrkt.ca. 

San Coiffure is a new hair salon dedicated to making an empowering and safe space for 2SLGBTQI+ people and women. You can check them out at 588 Yonge St. or sancoiffure.ca.

• NDP say they will vote no confidence in Liberal government with Trudeau as PM
• Singh says NDP will vote to bring down Trudeau government
• Who are the new members of Prime Minister Trudeau's Cabinet?
• Gunshots fired at Jewish girls' school for 3rd time this year
• Toronto's Medical Officer reflects on leading city's public health unit
• Gisele Pelicot wanted us to know her name. These are the men convicted in her rape.
• Freeland's resignation letter didn't mention gender, but Trudeau accused of phoney feminism anyway

Friends of Regent Park are hosting a pancake breakfast on Saturday, December 21 at the Regent Park Gymnasium and Banquet Hall. 

From 9 AM - 1 PM it is sure to be an exciting morning of pancakes, crafts, games, and more. Santa is expected to make the rounds and lots of new friends are to be made! 

Ho ho hold the date!

Looking for fun during the winter break? The Friends of Regent Park will host a Community Skating event.

Date: Saturday, December 28, 2024

Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Location: Regent Park Ice Rink (480 Shuter St.)

Skates, helmets and skating aids will be available for free on a first-come, first-served basis (courtesy of the City of Toronto's Skate Lending Library).

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Women’s Forum will bring together 124 young women and gender diverse individuals from across Ontario for a full-day program in Toronto to promote active citizenship and public engagement through education and empowerment. The forum will feature a variety of engaging events, including panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Applications are currently open and we encourage you to share the attached information in your riding.

Daily Pet Food Bank:
Providing essential food and supplies for pets, ensuring no pet goes hungry or is separated from their family due to financial challenges.

Community Day Events:
Monthly events offering:

• Pet food
• Pet supplies (bowls, leashes, apparel, carriers, gates, toys, beds, and blankets)

Pet Food Bank Hours:

• Monday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Contact Information:

• Website: www.torontohumanesociety.com/pet-services/community-day 
• Address: 11 River Street, Toronto, ON
• Phone: (416) 392-2273

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
• Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
  • 6:00–7:00 PM: Overview of guidelines and Q&A
  • 7:00–8:00 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.

Dear Emma,

Yesterday, the Legislature rose for the winter break. We will not sit in the chamber, pass legislation, or hold Question Period until March 4th, 2025. This is a long break and one that may not end since rumours of a spring election continue to swirl. 

As you can imagine, this past week was not without Ford’s usual schemes. He was at it again, dividing and distracting Ontarians, doing everything possible to enrich his friends behind our backs. 

Instead of focusing on helping everyday Ontarians connect with a family doctor or secure affordable housing, Doug Ford is more concerned with sending people in crisis to already overcrowded jails with no pathway for rehabilitation or recovery. 

Just yesterday, at the last possible moment, the PC Government tabled a new bill that would further criminalize homelessness and stigmatize the most vulnerable people in our communities. This bill would further criminalize sleeping in public parks and the use of illegal substances in public places, things that are already illegal, without providing any new funding to support alternatives. I don’t know where this government thinks unhoused people are supposed to go. The shelters are full, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is close to $2,000 a month across Ontario. People only sleep in tents in the winter when they have no other option. These folks need support to become and stay housed, but this bill does nothing to create supportive or affordable housing. 

This government needs to pass the Ontario NDP’s Homes Ontario plan and get back into the business of building housing in order to end encampments in our province. 

Before the Legislature rose, the government did do one nice thing, though. They passed a bill I tabled!

The government decided to bundle together and batch-pass ten bills proclaiming various days, weeks, and months as times of significance to raise awareness of issues and celebrate cultures. These are not official holidays but are recognized as important times of the year in Ontario. And one of the bills, The Persons Day Act, was one that I co-sponsored tri-partisanly with my fellow MPPs Mary-Margaret McMahon and Aislinn Clancy. 

The Persons Day Act recognizes October 18 as Persons Day in commemoration of the hard-won struggle by the Famous Five and other feminists for the Canadian government to recognize women as Persons. Before this case, the word “persons” meant men in Canadian legal contexts. After they won their case, “persons” always meant both men and women. This case did not grant legal personhood to Indigenous or Asian women or recognize gender non-conforming people, but it did pave the way for further progress, and for that, I am very grateful. 

I also had the opportunity to speak in support of the passing of the Chinese Heritage Month Act. As a person of Chinese heritage, it was heartwarming to speak to the importance of this day and reflect on how Chinese people have been treated by the Canadian government, from building the Canadian Pacific Railway for incredibly low pay in unsafe conditions, to the Chinese Head Tax, to the beautiful communities that Chinese-Canadians created and continue to hold together in cities across Canada. You can watch me speak in the Legislature about the importance of this month here: 

Here are all of the new times of significance in Ontario: 

• Chinese Heritage Month - February
• Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day - February 22
• Orthodox Christian Week - beginning on Orthodox Easter Sunday
• Seniors Month - June
• Injured Workers Day - June 1
• Group of Seven Day - July 7
• Ukrainian Heritage Month - September
• Persons Day - October 18
• Planning for Your Silver Years Awareness Week - beginning the first Monday of November
• Skilled Trades Week - first full week in November

I am very glad that all of these communities have special times for commemoration, awareness, and celebration in our province. You can see all of Ontario's currently proclaimed times of celebration and commemoration here. Don’t see your community represented? It might be time to organize within your community, start a campaign, and contact my office about tabling a bill! 

Yours in community service, 

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• Join Our Phone-banking Team!
  
• Ontario Renters Deserve Predictability
• Cabbagetown Holiday in the Patch
• PCs Overfunding their Buddies, Underfunding Key Services
• Ford Failing Skilled Trades Workers
• Seniors in LTC Deserve Better
• This Week's Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

Our phone-banking team is looking for volunteers and has many opportunities for you to get involved. Calling is an easy way to volunteer — you can do it from the comfort of your own home with just a tablet or laptop and headphones! My team hosts zoom trainings before ech shift to show you how to make calls through your device. We would love to have you join us!

Volunteer on Thursday December 19 at 6 PM

Volunteer on Thursday January 9 at 6 PM

On Wednesday, we had the opportunity to bring rent control back to all rental units in Ontario via my colleague MPP Bhutila Karpoche’s Private Members Bill. But the government voted it down. 

I was thrilled to speak to this bill. Rent control keeps renters' housing costs predictable and allows people to remain in their homes, building healthy and strong neighbourhoods. 

When this government scrapped rent control for new builds in 2018 it created confusion and imbalances in the rental market. All of a sudden, landlords can raise the rent on their tenants to any amount they like, creating a path for de-facto evictions without a hearing. This is wrong. We need to restore rent control in Ontario and work towards vacancy decontrol, where rental prices are controlled even when an old tenant moves out and a new one moves in. 

Last weekend, I had the best time attending the Cabbagetown BIA’s annual Holiday in the Patch celebration! 

Supporting local businesses and celebrating the festive spirit with our vibrant community is the most joyful way to ring in the holiday season. 

And the fun isn’t over yet - this weekend, stroll on over to historic Cabbagetown and finish up your holiday shopping and the wonderful local businesses on Parliament Street ☃️🎁

Over the past week, I have had time to examine the Financial Accountability Officer’s latest expenditure report, which tracks government spending and compares it to planned expenditures.

This most recent report shows that this government is systemically underfunding education across the board. Their strategy is to set up our colleges and universities to fail and to let our public schools languish. While the Premier remains laser-focused on schemes and scandals and ponying up billions for a private Austrian luxury spa, the people of Ontario are getting less and less for their taxpayer dollars. 

Instead of funding our schools, here is what the Ford government decided to splurge and save on: 

• Hundreds of millions of dollars in back-pay to workers because of unconstitutional Bill 124. 
• $87 million to get beer in convenience stores ahead of schedule.
• $123 million less than planned on education and $229 million less on colleges and universities.
• Not to mention the $400 per household the government is spending to subsidize a luxury spa at Ontario Place that most Ontarians can’t afford to visit. 

My office has been inundated with calls from skilled trades workers ready to work building homes in Ontario. Many of them have job offers in hand. 

But instead of heading out to job sites, they're stuck in Ford's mismanaged Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, waiting for a work permit. We must fix this backog to get people working and homes built in Ontario. 

This week, I asked the government what they would do to fix this backlog. As usual, they played the blame game and refused to take responsibility.

This week, I spoke about our seniors in Long-Term Care and the devoted workers who care for them. I shared reflections about my own grandmother, the parents of my constituents, and stories from PSWs who have written to my office. Click here to watch my full speech. 

Our seniors deserve properly funded care, not just piecemeal measures rushed through the Legislature.

This week I met with: 

• Tourism Industry Association of Ontario
• Paramedic Services’ Chiefs of Ontario

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Rose Avenue Public School, 674 Ontario Street, Toronto

Event Highlights:

• FREE Toys for Kids
• FREE Household Items
• FREE Groceries / Food Bank
• FREE Admission – ALL ARE WELCOME!

Celebrate with Us!
Join us for this annual community event as Freedom City continues to serve the St. James Town neighborhood for over 10 years.

More Information:

• Website: www.freedomcity.ca
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @freedomcityorg

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Wellesley Community Centre, 495 Sherbourne Street, St. James Town

Event Highlights:
This holiday market is designed to celebrate women, self-care, and community. Here's what you can look forward to:

• FREE Beauty Services: Makeup, nail polishing, and hair styling to help you feel pampered and refreshed.
• Incredible Vendors: Discover affordable products, including jewelry, clothing, and handmade items, from hardworking women in the community. Support local and treat yourself!
• Educational Resources: Learn and connect at interactive tables featuring a nutritionist, financial advisor, sexual health professionals, and a mental health workshop.
• Delicious Food and Treats: Enjoy delicious meals and baked goods prepared with love by talented chefs and bakers.
• Inspiring Performances: Witness powerful spoken word, soulful singing, and captivating dance performances that celebrate talent and sisterhood.
• Kids Zone: A fun and safe space for children with face painting, storytelling, arts and crafts, hair braiding, and more!

A Celebration of Sisterhood and Self-Care:
Take this day to celebrate yourself and the women around you. Come in feeling appreciated and leave feeling empowered.

Registration and Contact Information:

• Register: Click here to sign up
• Walk-ins are welcome!
• Email: [email protected]

Celebrate, connect, and be part of a beautiful community event created just for women!

When: Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: The 519 (519 Church St., Toronto, ON)
Details: Workshops available both in-person and online. TTC fare and snacks provided.
Registration: Preferred via this form.

Workshop Topics:

December 18
Navigating Long-Term Care as a 2SLGBTQ+ Person
Presenter: Jane Meadus, Advocacy Center for the Elderly (ACE)

Trustee Deborah Williams invites families and community members to the Ward 10 Forum: School Councils Engaging Families - School Improvement & Student Achievement. This hybrid event offers an opportunity to connect, share best practices, and discuss strategies to support student success and well-being.

Details:

• Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
• Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Online via Zoom or in person at Central Technical School, 725 Bathurst St, Toronto

Childcare and light refreshments will be available. Interpretation and accessibility accommodations can be requested. Please RSVP by clicking here.

Daily Pet Food Bank:
Providing essential food and supplies for pets, ensuring no pet goes hungry or is separated from their family due to financial challenges.

Community Day Events:
Monthly events offering:

• Pet food
• Pet supplies (bowls, leashes, apparel, carriers, gates, toys, beds, and blankets)

Pet Food Bank Hours:

• Monday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Contact Information:

• Website: www.torontohumanesociety.com/pet-services/community-day 
• Address: 11 River Street, Toronto, ON
• Phone: (416) 392-2273

Friends of Regent Park are hosting a pancake breakfast on Saturday, December 21 at the Regent Park Gymnasium and Banquet Hall. 

From 9am-1pm it is sure to be an exciting morning of pancakes, crafts, games, and more. Santa is expected to make the rounds and lots of new friends are to be made! 

Ho ho hold the date!

Looking for fun during the winter break? The Friends of Regent Park will host a Community Skating event.

Date: Saturday, December 28, 2024

Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Location: Regent Park Ice Rink (480 Shuter St.)

Skates, helmets and skating aids will be available for free on a first-come, first-served basis (courtesy of the City of Toronto's Skate Lending Library).

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
• Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
  • 6:00–7:00 PM: Overview of guidelines and Q&A
  • 7:00–8:00 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.

Dear Emma,

This week, the Ontario Auditor General released her bombshell 941-page report on the Ford government. 

One of the most shocking revelations was that Ontario families are paying $400 per household to subsidize a luxury spa they will never visit. The government is investing more in Ontario Place than Therme, their luxury spa tenant, will pay over their 99-year lease. Can you imagine if that money were spent fixing our schools or hiring more nurses?

I knew it was going to be damning, but the degree to which the Auditor General’s report revealed Ford and his government’s corruption was shocking. Here are some highlights:

1. Ontario Place: The Ontario Place deal was mismanaged and rigged from start to finish, driven by an opaque process with preferential treatment for Therme.  
2. The Opioid crisis: The opioid crisis has consistently escalated since 2016, wreaking havoc on communities. Despite this, there was no data, planning, or public consultation provided to justify closing Consumption treatment Services sites.
3. Infrastructure: The increased use of Ford’s favourite private-public partnership model has not resulted in better outcomes – instead, projects like transit and hospitals are consistently over budget and over time.  
4. Government advertising: There was a significant spike in taxpayer-funded ads deemed ‘partisan’ in the past year – in preparation for an election.  This is the highest-ever recorded government spending on advertisements, totalling $103.5M.  
5. Toronto District School Board: There’s been a 114% increase in violent instances from 2017 to present day, currently levels are the highest ever recorded. In addition, the TDSB is facing an estimated $4.1 billion repair backlog.
6. Ontario Immigrant Nomination Program: The government does not track the outcomes of immigration. Occupations with the highest vacancies received little attention from the program, including millwrights, ECEs, and nurses.
7. Environmental regulations: The government routinely ignored their duty to consult the public and adhere to the Environmental Bill of Rights on a variety of projects.
8. Ministerial Zoning Orders: There is no protocol and no rationale for the way the government distributes MZOs. There is clear preferential treatment for select developers, even after the Greenbelt scandal.

This government cannot be allowed to get away with this blatant corruption and mismanagement. I along with the Ontario NDP caucus will continue to hold them to account. You deserve a government that abides by the rules and delivers the basics to you and your family.

I am hosting a holiday party this upcoming Sunday! Join me, our federal candidate Samantha Green, and the Toronto Centre NDP for a delicious lunch, prizes, and holiday cheer with friends and neighbours at the Regent Park Community Centre 🎄

Date: Sunday, December 8 (in two days!)

Time: 2 - 4 PM

Location: Banquet Hall, Regent Park Community Centre – 402 Shuter Street

See you on Sunday,

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• December 6 - National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women
• CTS Closures will Overwhelm Hospitals
• Big Tobacco Must Pay
• World AIDS Day
• This Week’s Headlines
• Local Community Events

Today is the National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women, a day when we mourn together and recommit to creating a world without femicide and misogyny. Yesterday I spoke about the importance of this day in the legislature, which you can watch here. Tonight I will be gathering with my fellow mourners at Philosophers Walk to hear the names of the women killed and hold their memories in our hearts.

This year we lost 61 women and girls to femicide, along with one young boy killed alongside his mother and sister. If you have the capacity, I encourage you to read the names of these women and learn their stories here. 

I am still working on the Sub-Committee Study on Intimate Partner Violence, though with an early election looming in the new year, I am becoming less and less convinced that the committee will be able to conclude. The process is beginning to feel like a farce. I will keep pushing, but this is what I warned the government about and why we need to declare IPV an epidemic now! 

On Tuesday, the Auditor General confirmed the government’s decision to close consumption and treatment services was not evidence-based or well-planned. 

The next day, I asked the government why they didn't consult Toronto Paramedics on this decision. If they had asked, Toronto paramedics would have told them that CTS closures would place huge burdens on already-stretched first responders and hospitals. We need to reverse the closures for all of our sakes.

Big Tobacco is in court right now, trying to settle with Ontario and other provinces in a case about the harm that their products do to people. But the current settlement is paltry, includes nothing for smoking cessation, and keeps all court documents private.

I asked the government if they would stand up to Big Tobacco and get what Ontarians deserve. I received largely a non-answer, but the Attorney General did imply he was open to hearing my ideas. I will be following up to ensure Ontario does not miss out on billions of dollars and valuable documents in this settlement.

December 1st was World AIDS Day. I was honoured to join the Toronto HIV/AIDS Network last weekend to commemorate youth resilience and leadership in the fight for equitable care. Young people deserve a future free from the stigma and harm of HIV/AIDS.

AIDS Service Organizations (ASOs) in Ontario are facing an unprecedented funding shortfall that should concern us all. Last week in the legislature, I tabled a motion calling on the government to ensure that the funding they provide to ASOs reflects the current economic pressures they are experiencing so that they can continue providing life-changing and life-saving care to our communities.

• York University
• Ontario Professional Firefighters Association
• Ontario Public Transit Association
• Ontario Dental Association
• Ontario Principals’ Council
• Ontario Chamber of Commerce

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The Cabbagetown BIA invites you to Holiday in The Patch, a festive celebration happening on Saturday, December 7, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. Join in for a day filled with holiday cheer, fun activities, and local shopping in the heart of Cabbagetown.

Highlights include:

• Treasure Hunt: Solve clues, explore local businesses, and compete for prizes worth up to $1,500.
• Outdoor Après Ski Lounge & Karaoke: Enjoy hot apple cider, lawn games, and holiday karaoke.
• Photos with Santa: Visit Santa at 237 Carlton Street starting at 12:00 PM.
• Exclusive In-Store Events: Discover special promotions and unique experiences throughout the BIA.

Celebrate the season, shop local, and enjoy the magic of the holidays in Cabbagetown. For more details or to register for the treasure hunt, click here.

Celebrate the season at the Holiday Tree Lighting at Riverdale Farm! Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, carolers, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate.

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7:00 p.m.; gates close at 8:00 p.m.)
Location: Riverdale Farm, 201 Winchester St, Toronto, ON

Bring family and friends to enjoy the holiday magic in a beautiful farm setting. For more information, call 416-392-6794.

The Town of York Historical Society and Toronto's First Post Office invite you to their Annual Holiday Open House—a festive, family-friendly event!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST
Location: Toronto's First Post Office, 260 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 1N1

Event Highlights:

• Write holiday letters or postcards, including letters to Santa!
• Design your own Christmas postcard and enjoy holiday crafts (while supplies last).
• Seasonal treats will be available for all ages.

Admission: Entry by donation.

All are welcome to drop in and enjoy the holiday spirit at this historic venue!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St. East, Toronto, ON

Event Details:
This event, in collaboration with CAPIC (Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators), offers a wonderful opportunity for families, couples, and individuals in the community to have professional portraits taken—for FREE!

What’s Included:

• One FREE print of your favorite photo.
• Digital access to the rest of your portraits.

Spots Are Limited—Secure Your Time Slot Today!

• How to Book: Scan the QR code in the flyer or visit DSFamilyPortraits.eventbrite.ca to reserve your 15-minute session.

Help Spread the Word:
Share this invitation with friends, family, and anyone in your Regent Park network who would love to participate in this memorable experience.

Contact Information:
Farid Jalil, Hub Manager
Daniels Spectrum | ArtHubs Toronto Inc.
Phone: (647) 696-6962 x1009
Email: [email protected]
Website:ArtHubs.ca

Address: 300-585 Dundas Street East, Toronto

When: Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: The 519 (519 Church St., Toronto, ON)
Details: Workshops available both in-person and online. TTC fare and snacks provided.
Registration: Preferred via this form.

December 18
Navigating Long-Term Care as a 2SLGBTQ+ Person
Presenter: Jane Meadus, Advocacy Center for the Elderly (ACE)

Trustee Deborah Williams invites families and community members to the Ward 10 Forum: School Councils Engaging Families - School Improvement & Student Achievement. This hybrid event offers an opportunity to connect, share best practices, and discuss strategies to support student success and well-being.

Details:

• Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
• Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Online via Zoom or in person at Central Technical School, 725 Bathurst St, Toronto

Childcare and light refreshments will be available. Interpretation and accessibility accommodations can be requested. Please RSVP by clicking here.

Daily Pet Food Bank:
Providing essential food and supplies for pets, ensuring no pet goes hungry or is separated from their family due to financial challenges.

Community Day Events:
Monthly events offering:

• Pet food
• Pet supplies (bowls, leashes, apparel, carriers, gates, toys, beds, and blankets)

Pet Food Bank Hours:

• Monday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Contact Information:

• Learn more
• Address: 11 River Street, Toronto, ON
• Phone: (416) 392-2273

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Rose Avenue Public School, 674 Ontario Street, Toronto

Event Highlights:

• FREE Toys for Kids
• FREE Household Items
• FREE Groceries / Food Bank
• FREE Admission – ALL ARE WELCOME!

Celebrate with Us!
Join us for this annual community event as Freedom City continues to serve the St. James Town neighborhood for over 10 years.

More Information:

• Website: www.freedomcity.ca
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @freedomcityorg

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Wellesley Community Centre, 495 Sherbourne Street, St. James Town

Event Highlights:
This holiday market is designed to celebrate women, self-care, and community. Here's what you can look forward to:

• FREE Beauty Services: Makeup, nail polishing, and hair styling to help you feel pampered and refreshed.
• Incredible Vendors: Discover affordable products, including jewelry, clothing, and handmade items, from hardworking women in the community. Support local and treat yourself!
• Educational Resources: Learn and connect at interactive tables featuring a nutritionist, financial advisor, sexual health professionals, and a mental health workshop.
• Delicious Food and Treats: Enjoy delicious meals and baked goods prepared with love by talented chefs and bakers.
• Inspiring Performances: Witness powerful spoken word, soulful singing, and captivating dance performances that celebrate talent and sisterhood.
• Kids Zone: A fun and safe space for children with face painting, storytelling, arts and crafts, hair braiding, and more!

A Celebration of Sisterhood and Self-Care:
Take this day to celebrate yourself and the women around you. Come in feeling appreciated and leave feeling empowered.

Registration and Contact Information:

• Register: Click here to sign up
• Walk-ins are welcome!
• Email: [email protected]

Celebrate, connect, and be part of a beautiful community event created just for women!

Friends of Regent Park are hosting a pancake breakfast on Saturday, December 21 at the Regent Park Gymnasium and Banquet Hall. 

From 9am-1pm it is sure to be an exciting morning of pancakes, crafts, games, and more. Santa is expected to make the rounds and lots of new friends are to be made! 

Ho ho hold the date!

Dear Emma,

Yesterday was a great day. Over 40 small business associations and owners joined me for a lively roundtable discussion about the state of small businesses in Ontario. We discussed what the provincial government can do to support small businesses and how we can work to level the playing field for entrepreneurs.

Aaron Binder of the Better Way Alliance speaks at the Small Business Roundtable.

I want to thank my fellow NDP MPPs for their support of this event: Terrence Kernaghan, critic for economic development, job creation and trade; Bhutilla Karpoche, critic for affordability and GTA issues; Jessica Bell, critic for housing; and Catherine Fife, critic for finance and the Treasury Board. It is a treat to work alongside these passionate advocates. 

Together we were able to bring out an inspired showing of small business owners and business advocacy organizations, including the Better Way Alliance, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas, Beauty United Council of Ontario, Elevate, and Angel Investors Ontario. Having input from these groups, who brought their years of experience in the sector to the room, was invaluable. 

The conversation did not stop! All attendees came armed with solutions and suggestions, and nobody was shy about speaking up. I am so impressed by their insight and can’t wait to create a clear action plan based on their feedback. 

So many ideas came out of our discussion. Here are a few to tide you over while I prepare my report: 

• Making commercial leases more tenant-friendly
• Tackling our housing, mental health, and addiction crises - folks in crisis create safety risks for staff and customers.
• Support for Community Land Trusts!
• Better regulation of the insurance industry

I am excited to spend more time talking to small business owners in the coming months as I help craft the Ontario NDP’s small business platform ahead of the next election. I would love to hear from you on this issue. If you would like to share your feedback, click here to fill out my Small Business Survey! 

I am thrilled to invite you and your loved ones to the Toronto Centre NDP’s annual Holiday Party! Join me and our federal candidate Samantha Green for a delicious lunch, prizes, and holiday cheer with your Toronto Centre friends at the Regent Park Community Centre 🎄

Date: Sunday, December 8

Time: 2 PM - 4 PM

Location: Banquet Hall, Regent Park Community Centre – 402 Shuter St

I very much hope to see you there,

Kristyn Wong-Tam

MPP, Toronto Centre

• International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women
• PCs Squash NDP’s Plan to End Cash-For-Access Culture
• We Need a Government That Takes Building Housing Seriously
• Ford’s Anti-Bike Lane Bill Passed
  
• This Week’s Meetings
• This Week’s Headlines
• Upcoming Community Events

On Monday, we marked the International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women with a series of actions to push forward my Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Bill. 

First, my bill co-sponsors and I teamed up with Your Way Forward, a consortium of nine legal clinics who shared their legal opinion about the bill. I encourage you to watch our press conference. All of the speakers clearly laid out why Ontario needs to declare this epidemic now.

Your Way Forward told me that, in addition to being an important symbolic gesture in support of survivors, the declaration of an epidemic would materially support survivors as they navigate the legal system. In court matters, the provincial declaration would shift the onus of explaining why IPV was relevant to their case off of survivors and onto the court. This would strengthen their argument while also relieving survivors of some of the re-traumatizing statements they are currently required to give. 

After the press conference, we went into the Legislative Chamber, where all MPPs, including the PCs, were wearing purple scarves in recognition of the International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women. My colleague MPP Peggy Sattler asked that Unanimous Consent be given to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic in Ontario. If the government had agreed to this, it would have accomplished the same thing as passing my bill. They said no, just as they did the last time we asked them. Then, MPP Sattler asked for Unanimous Consent to observe a moment of silence in remembrance of all those we have lost to intimate partner violence. The government agreed to that one. It was so frustrating to watch them — in their purple scarves — stand in the way of something that survivors have actually asked for, that would make a difference in their legal cases, but then agree to something small and purely symbolic. I wanted to scream!

I had the opportunity to ask the Government why they refuse to take this simple action for survivors and was met with the typical non-answers. You can watch that exchange here. 

While the day was frustrating, it was comforting to be surrounded by such passionate people who work every day to support survivors through their legal battles. I am so proud of everyone at Your Way Forward and the powerful work they do for our communities.

This week, the Ontario NDP introduced our plan to close the fundraising loopholes that have created a cash-for-access culture within Ontario’s government.

Democracy shouldn’t have a price tag. Doug Ford says he’ll take a call from anyone, but he’s shown he’ll take only action when someone writes a cheque to the PC party.

Current Ontario legislation allows cabinet ministers to accept donations from those with business before their own Ministries. PC and Liberal governments set fundraising targets for their Ministers, encouraging them to fundraise off of their ministerial stakeholders. This is wrong and creates an environment ripe for abuse.

That is why this week, Ontario New Democrats introduced a motion to put an end to this practice and strengthen the rules in the Members’ Integrity Act.

But the PC government voted it down. They have no interest in cleaning up their act because they are all too comfortable putting their insiders’ interests above what is good for everyday Ontarians. 

That is not how you govern. An Ontario NDP government will clean up the corruption, restore integrity, and make sure your government can deliver on the basics – building homes, hiring doctors, fixing schools, and making life more affordable.

I will never stop talking about affordable housing in the Legislature. This week, I asked the government when they will start taking building affordable and attainable housing seriously. We are losing young people to other provinces because they see no future here, simply because of the cost of housing. We need to follow the NDP’s Homes Ontario Plan and launch a public builder to create truly affordable housing today.

It is infuriating that Ford’s anti-bike lane bill passed. I am seething over it and already grieving the lives that will be lost when these lanes are ripped out but cyclists continue to ride on our main roads. 

This legislation makes no sense. It is a misuse of taxpayer dollars, and there is no data to support it. It will increase pollution, worsen congestion, and make our streets less safe for everyone. 

I received an avalanche of calls and emails opposing this bill. When I spoke in the legislature against this bill, I was able to read a few stories that were sent in. You can listen to them here.

MPP Wong-Tam with representatives from the AIDS Committee of Toronto

• Global University Systems Canada
• Yonge Street Mission
• AIDS Committee of Toronto
• Life Sciences Ontario
• Ontario Trial Lawyers Association

Competition Bureau investigating high tech price-fixing by Canadian landlords

Canada Post says it has been temporarily laying off striking workers

City staff recommend Toronto set a maximum temperature bylaw for all apartments

Highway 407 owner says no active buyback discussions with Ontario government

Tenants question if Ontario's Landlord and Tenant Board timelines are improving

Covenant House Toronto introduces winter respite program for vulnerable youth

Join the Toronto Young New Democrats for their inaugural meeting on Dec 6 at 6 pm! They will be meeting at the Bahen Centre, UofT St George, Room B025.

This meeting is open to NDP supporters ages 14-25 who live, work, or study in the City of Toronto.

If you want to meet MPPs and like-minded progressive folks, run for an executive position, or just have fun and talk politics, this group is for you!

Click here to RSVP!

The Regent Park Film Festival invites the community to enjoy a lineup of films, discussions, and events. This free, accessible festival takes place from November 28 to December 1, 2024, at Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St. E, Toronto.

Festival Highlights:

• Thursday, Nov 28
  • Opening Night Party – 6:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
  • Boxcutter – 7:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A gripping story about a young aspiring rapper in Regent Park.
• Friday, Nov 29
  • Village Keeper – 9:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    A tale about family, identity, and community housing.
• Saturday, Nov 30
  • Palestine & Censorship in the Arts – 7:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)
    A panel exploring the intersection of arts and activism.
• Sunday, Dec 1
  • Radiant Visions: In Conversation with Alicia K. Harris – 4:30 p.m. (Ada Slaight Hall)
    Join filmmaker Alicia K. Harris in a discussion on creativity and representation.
  • Free Community Breakfast – 10:00 a.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

Special Events:

• Industry Meet & Greet – Saturday, Nov 30 & Sunday, Dec 1, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Daniels Spectrum Lobby)

For the full program and free tickets, click here. 

St. Michael's College invites you to its annual Christmas Market on Sunday, December 3, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Elmsley Place. Attendees can shop for unique gifts and treats from student and alumni vendors offering items like baked goods and jewelry.

Proceeds from the event, along with in-kind donations, will support Romero House and St. Basil's Out of the Cold Program. Contributions of winter accessories or $20 gift cards are welcome.

Celebrate the festive season while supporting these important initiatives!

The Good Food Market is hosting The Little Trinity Christmas Market—a festive market with purpose, supporting Good Shepherd Ministries.

Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Time: 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Location: 425 King Street East, Toronto

Event Highlights:

• Christmas shopping with handcrafted items and baked goods.
• Live music featuring Christmas jazz by Juno-nominated pianist Ewen Farncombe.
• Free hot chocolate, goodies, and fresh fruits and veggies from GFM.
• Opportunities to donate.

All proceeds support Good Shepherd Ministries. Join in for a meaningful holiday experience!

The Cabbagetown BIA invites you to Holiday in The Patch, a festive celebration happening on Saturday, December 7, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. Join in for a day filled with holiday cheer, fun activities, and local shopping in the heart of Cabbagetown.

Highlights include:

• Treasure Hunt: Solve clues, explore local businesses, and compete for prizes worth up to $1,500.
• Outdoor Après Ski Lounge & Karaoke: Enjoy hot apple cider, lawn games, and holiday karaoke.
• Photos with Santa: Visit Santa at 237 Carlton Street starting at 12:00 PM.
• Exclusive In-Store Events: Discover special promotions and unique experiences throughout the BIA.

Celebrate the season, shop local, and enjoy the magic of the holidays in Cabbagetown. For more details or to register for the treasure hunt, click here. 

Celebrate the season at the Holiday Tree Lighting at Riverdale Farm! Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, carolers, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate.

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7:00 p.m.; gates close at 8:00 p.m.)
Location: Riverdale Farm, 201 Winchester St, Toronto, ON

Bring family and friends to enjoy the holiday magic in a beautiful farm setting. For more information, call 416-392-6794.

The Town of York Historical Society and Toronto's First Post Office invite you to their Annual Holiday Open House—a festive, family-friendly event!

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST
Location: Toronto's First Post Office, 260 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 1N1

Event Highlights:

• Write holiday letters or postcards, including letters to Santa!
• Design your own Christmas postcard and enjoy holiday crafts (while supplies last).
• Seasonal treats will be available for all ages.

Admission: Entry by donation.

All are welcome to drop in and enjoy the holiday spirit at this historic venue!

Abeena Samm and Recognize Your Face Market Ministry Place invite the community to the 15th Annual Socks Drive at their "Bean Stock Sock Hop" event. Join for an evening of music and support for those in need.

Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; Showtime from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7

For more information, visit recognizeyourface.com.