
Dear Sasha,
This past Monday was the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I hope you took some time to learn more about the historical and ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples and the actions that we can take together toward the path to reconciliation. CBC Gem has many educational and entertaining TV shows and feature films by Indigenous creators that you can watch for free here.
(Evan Mitsui/CBC)
On the west side of Nathan Philips Square, near the stage of City Hall, is the home to the new Spirit Garden. This beautiful garden features a six-foot turtle sculpture, a stainless steel spirit canoe, an Inuksuk, a teaching lodge and Kaswentha (Two-Row Wampum walkway), and a Three Sisters garden. I encourage you to walk through the space, using that time to reflect and enjoy the beautiful artwork.
I am so proud of the work that Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre, headquartered in Toronto Centre, has done to lead the Spirit Garden project alongside the City of Toronto. The creation of the Spirit Garden answers one of the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which asks that the capital city of each province and Territory install a “publicly accessible, highly visible, Residential Schools Monument [...] to honour Survivors and all the children who were lost to their families and communities.”
My wonderful colleague and friend, Ontario NDP Deputy Leader MPP Sol Mamakwa, a residential school survivor himself, recently returned to the residential school he attended in the 1980s. I encourage you to watch the video of his experience there, as well as the other stories in CBC’s The Knowing. They are moving and powerful.
This week MPP Mamakwa announced that he would be tabling a Private Members Bill that would make the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a provincial holiday in Ontario. This is one of the TRC’s recommendations and would send a message to Indigenous people in Ontario that they are valued and that their pain is recognized. I will be honoured to support this bill when it is tabled in the legislature.

The Ontario Legislature is resuming in just two weeks. After a five-month break imposed by Ford, I am eager to return to Queen’s Park and ready to continue holding the government accountable on the issues that matter to you, especially housing, healthcare, education, and access to justice.
In order to be the most effective, I need your stories. If you have concerns, ideas, insights or solutions that you want brought to Queen’s Park please share them with me. Have you had experiences with the family doctor shortage or long ER wait times? Been on the waitlist for affordable housing for years? Are you a teacher or healthcare worker who is feeling disrespected or under-resourced? Are you a small business owner still feeling the post-COVID financial pressures? Is there a community organization that is going above and beyond to serve the people in your community? I want to hear it all! Please reply to this email with your story, and I will share it during Question Period and in debate in the Legislature.
Yours in community service,

Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- International Plowing Match
- African Centre for Refugees in Ontario-Canada Conference
- Peterborough Pride!
- Butterfly’s 10th Anniversary
- Cuts to The Neighbourhood Group
- Metropolitan United Church Green Space Revitalization
- A visit to Young People’s Theatre
- This Week’s Headlines
- Local Community News
| The Ontario NDP at the International Plowing Match |
Kristyn Wong-Tam on a tractor at the International Plowing Match
The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo is the farming community’s signature event, and it was important for the Ontario NDP caucus to attend this past Tuesday. Now in its 105th year, this country fair, held in Lindsay and running for a whole week, brings farmers and political decision-makers together.
As a proud urban MPP from Toronto, I am keen to learn about rural life and what Ontario farmers need to thrive and continue feeding our cities. I am so grateful to our caucus’ rural and northern members, Ontario farmers, and advocates who have taken the time to share their stories about the resources and legislative reforms needed to build a successful agricultural strategy in Ontario.
| The African Centre for Refugees Conference |
Dennis Wamala, Kristyn Wong-Tam, and Rev. Alexa Gilmour speaking at the African Centre for Refugees Conference.
I was pleased to attend the African Centre for Refugees in Ontario-Canada conference to discuss the legal and ethical responsibilities of nations like Canada towards refugees and asylum seekers. In Ontario, too many refugees fall through the cracks, and it is the responsibility of all levels of government to ensure this doesn’t happen. One way we do this in Ontario is to have Ford bring the Federal government together with municipalities to coordinate and empower settlement agencies to provide programs that lead to rapid housing, healthcare, employment, and pathways to citizenship.
|
Peterborough Pride! |

Kristyn Wong-Tam with Peterborough New Democrats ready to march in the Pride Parade!
Last weekend, on behalf of Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles and our caucus, I traveled to beautiful Peterborough to participate in their Pride parade. Marching in the Peterborough NDP contingent was great fun as we were most certainly by far the largest and most fabulous political party represented in the parade. Local residents heard from us, and they know the Ontario NDP has their backs!
| Butterfly’s 10th Anniversary |
Kristyn Wong-Tam with Mayor Olivia Chow at the Butterfly Gala
As a long-time supporter, I'm proud to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Butterfly on their 10th Anniversary! This significant milestone celebrates the transformative work to empower and protect Asian and migrant sex workers in Toronto.
These efforts are essential to dismantling systemic bias against sex workers and building a more caring community for all, and I was grateful to be a part of it. If you are interested in donating to their great organization, please do so here.
|
Cuts to The Neighbourhood Group |
Today I met with CUPE workers and union leaders to discuss the recent staff and service cuts at The Neighbourhood Group (TNG). Vital programming that vulnerable Toronto youth and seniors rely on has been unexpectedly shut down leaving families without the critical support they need. Programs that keep at-risk youth safe and off the streets, seniors socially active and fed with hot homemade meals, and provide conflict resolution and training to community groups and members.
I intend to work with the terminated staff and CUPE leaders to meet with TNG management to ensure that those who have lost their jobs and these vital services are supported. You can read more about how to support these programs here.
| Metropolitan United Church Green Space Revitalization |
Kristyn Wong-Tam breaking ground at Metropolitan United Church with Reverend Jim Harbell, Jonathan Oldengarm, Reverend Mark Atchinson, Ken Younie, Doug Flanders, Frank Cormier and Lynn Patterson
The Metropolitan United Church has received an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant to revitalize its ample open green space. Exciting plans are underway to build a beautiful urban garden landscape for the public to enjoy! I was thrilled to join them for the ceremonial groundbreaking and can’t wait to see the project completed.
| A Visit to Young People’s Theatre |
Kristyn Wong-Tam with YPT Executive Director Camilla Holland and staff outside the Young People’s Theatre
Did you know that Young People’s Theatre is Canada’s largest and oldest professional theatre? We are so blessed to have them here in Toronto Centre, serving 150,000 patrons each year. It was a joy to join them to recognize their receipt of an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant.
Their new season includes musical favourites such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Get your holiday tickets now!
| This Week's Headlines |
Toronto hospital to open supportive housing for homeless people
Students, staff struggle to learn in Ontario’s overcrowded schools
Opinion | Doctors want to practice medicine. Instead, we are buried in paperwork
| Upcoming Community Events |
|
Community Network Summit |
The City of Toronto is hosting their annual TSNS Community Networks Summit on Saturday, November 9, 2024!
The TSNS Community Networks Summit will offer space for networking, participation in interactive workshops, and connecting with other members of TSNS Community Networks. Please register online here to attend.
| Food for Good Café Open! |
Located on the first-floor lobby of Sherbourne Health, the Food for Good Café features hot espresso drinks and delicious baked goods for visitors. But the café isn’t your average spot to grab your morning joe. Every order at this new social enterprise makes a transformative impact on local food access and the health of their service users.
The Food for Good Café is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 3 PM. To learn more about the café and to see the menu, visit the Food for Good Café’s program page.
| Community Wealth Building Summit |
The BWA and Kensington Market Community Land Trust are co-hosting our inaugural event for changemakers that want to make Toronto’s local economies flourish. It’s their first-ever Community Wealth Building Summit! That means an evening of networking and keynotes to learn how to keep money and property in the hands of our hard-working communities.
It’s happening on Wednesday, October 9th from 5:30 PM to 8:45 PM in the beloved Kensington Market: Trinity Common, 303 Augusta Avenue.
Listen to amazing “do-ers” (not just thinkers!) to share various ways individuals and organizations can get involved in the influential actions we need to change Toronto’s economy. Get your tickets here!
| Nuit Blanche at Daniels Spectrum |
Black in Time will take audiences on a journey that explores the Black experience in this country. The portraits and the audio recordings will tell the stories of the long presence of Black people in Canada. As experienced by many newcomers to this land, the voices will speak of the adversity that they and their ancestors had to face and eventually overcome.
Round A/Void is an immersive multimedia installation made of two-way mirrors and interior sets comes to life with layered projections, shifting lights, surreal soundscapes and audience bodies.
Afterglow is an enchanting post-sunset outdoor art activity to captivate both the young and the young at heart. Organized by Healing as One, this immersive experience comes alive with interactive light-based activities, creative stations, and playful displays that evolve with the changing ambiance of the evening. Participants can engage in a variety of fun activities, from collaborative light painting to glow-in-the-dark art creation, all set against a backdrop of radiant hues that shift from dusk to midnight.
| MASH! ... Make Art Speak Heart! |

Every Tuesday from October 2 to November 6 The Corner at 240 Wellesley Street East will be hosting Make Art Speak Heart from 6 PM to 7:30 PM.
This opportunity is free for children ages 8 to 16. This week will be themed, Where I’m From. And for more information please email [email protected] or call (416) 964-6657.
| Homeward Bound for Mother-Led Families |
Unique in Canada, this four-year education and employment program provides intensive wrap-around services that eliminate the barriers that single mothers face in trying to move out of poverty. Launched by WoodGreen in 2004, Homeward Bound is an innovative program that supports homeless, newcomer & inadequately housed single mothers to earn college diplomas, start careers & achieve financial self-sufficiency.
To learn more about this, they quill be having an information session on October 16 at 6 PM to at 325 Bleecker Street in the recreation room. Should you have any questions, please get in contact with Riva at [email protected], or 437-925-3780.
| Tenant Summit |
Tomorrow on Saturday October 5 the Federation of Metro Tenants Association (FMTA) will be having a tenant-focused summit!
The summit begins at 10 AM and ends at 4 PM and will be hosted at 120 Carlton Street. Please register here to learn how to get organized, meet other tenants, learn about AGIs, rent control and tenants rights.
| Apply for the Ontario Model Parliament! |
The Legislative Assembly of Ontario Model Parliament is a three-day educational program offering high school students the chance to engage with democracy firsthand. If you are an Ontario student in grades 10 to 12 with an interest in government, current affairs, and provincial issues, this program is for you. Participants will meet the Speaker, Members of Provincial Parliament, and other civic-minded peers, and experience how Ontario's legislature operates, including debating as an MPP. The deadline to apply is October 6, 2024! For more information and to apply, click here.
Event Details:
- Dates: February 19 to 21, 2025
- Location: Ontario Legislative Building, Toronto
|
St Lawrence REmarket |
The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 11th REmarket on October 9 and 10. This two-day event focuses on collecting unwanted items, with recycling services, donation collection, and hazardous waste drop-off available. The event will be held at the St. Lawrence Market Tent, 125 The Esplanade. For full details and guidelines, click here.
Event Schedule:
-
Wednesday, October 9:
- FreeMarket from 10 AM to 7 PM. Donate or take items for free (not for commercial resale). Bring your own bag.
-
Thursday, October 10:
- Repair Café Toronto will fix clothing, jewelry, computers, electronics, and more from 11 AM to 3 PM.
CultureLink Bike Hub will offer small bike repairs and safety checks from 10 AM to 6 PM.
| Climate Resilience: Peer Support Group |
Good To Be Good is collaborating with the Green Resilience Project to host an in-person workshop focused on gathering community feedback related to climate change and social justice. This workshop is open to local women and gender-diverse individuals from BIPOC and marginalized communities, providing a platform to share your priorities and concerns about climate issues.
This workshop will take place on October 17, 2024 from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Toronto Public Library, Bloor/Gladstone Branch in the Community Room. Space is limited to 20 participants, so make sure to register early! Each participant will receive a $50 Visa gift card as a token of appreciation for their time and contributions.
| Regent Park October Funfest |

The Friends of Regent Park invite everyone to join them for their annual October Funfest on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This exciting event will take place from 1 PM to 3 PM at The Big Park at 620 Dundas St East, near the Bake Oven.
Celebrate the fall season with pumpkin carving, cookie decorating, music and dancing and delicious apple crisp and treat bags.
| Neuroscience Research - Participants Needed |
The Einstein Lab, led by Dr. Gillian Einstein at the University of Toronto Psychology Department specializes in cognitive neuroscience, gender, and health research. They are inviting qualifying participants to participate in their Trans-led study on how different hormones and life experiences contribute to cognitive health and aging.
Currently, the lab is recruiting Trans women, Non-binary people and cisgender men and women who are 50+ to participate. Volunteers will be compensated up to $150 plus travel expenses. For more information, email: [email protected] or fill out the contact form here.
|
Ontario’s Legislative Page Program - Applications are Open! |
The Ontario Legislative Assembly is inviting students in Grades 7 and 8 to apply for its Legislative Page Program. This unique opportunity allows approximately 150 high-achieving students to gain hands-on experience in government operations, meet key parliamentary figures, and develop leadership skills. The program is designed for students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership within their schools and communities.
The application periods are April 15 to June 15, and September 15 to November 15. Click here for more information and how to apply.
|
One Stop Shop Event! |
On October 27, Homeless Connect Toronto will be hosting it's 11th Annual One-Stop-Shop event! It will take place at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, located at 50 Carlton Street. For over a decade, Homeless Connect Toronto has been dedicated to organizing one-stop-shop events that connect individuals impacted by homelessness with essential support services.
This year’s event will offer a range of vital services to Torontonians affected by homelessness, including housing and employment support, financial assistance, hearing and eye assessments, haircuts, dental care, foot care, and many more. All services will be provided free of charge in collaboration with local community agencies and businesses. Live music and a warm meal is also provided at the event.
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Dear Emma,
Yesterday, the Ford government tabled their lacklustre Fall Economic Statement. This is a “mini budget,” and this year it was smaller and more underwhelming than usual. The statement fundamentally fails to deliver the kind of plan that Ontarians need as the cost of living rises, the job crisis worsens, and the housing crisis deepens.
All anyone in Ontario wants is stability and a chance to get ahead. All we want is a government that supports individuals and families to meet their own needs. But instead, Ontario’s unemployment is the highest in a decade, and our housing starts are at their lowest over the same period. By every measure, this government is failing.
This failure is so frustrating to me. Ford has the opportunity to deliver policy and a budget that offers people hope: a real jobs plan, lower costs, and investments that strengthen our communities and public services. Instead, this government is cutting healthcare and education (simultaneously gutting public services and shedding jobs) while shovelling money out the door to their lobbyist friends through the Skills Development Fund (including companies that operate strip clubs).
Unemployment is at 7.8% and 1 in 5 young people are without a job, yet this government’s jobs plans are their scandal-ridden Skills Development Fund and tax cuts for big businesses. To weather this storm, we need bold ideas that put workers first and strengthen our communities.
I am proud to be a part of the Ontario NDP Caucus and stand behind the solutions we are putting forward. The Ontario NDP is urging the Ford government to prioritize:
- Protecting and creating good jobs by expanding supports for local manufacturing, small businesses, and Ontario’s critical resource sectors.
- Investing in social infrastructure such as housing, health care, education, and childcare, to attract and retain workers while creating jobs in those very sectors.
- Building economic security by increasing social assistance rates, expanding public pharmacare and mental health care, and investing in municipalities to prevent job loss and homelessness.
I will continue to push these priorities forward. Nothing is more critical than Ontarians accessing safe and appropriate housing, high-quality public services, and meaningful jobs.
It is upsetting to me that, instead of actually helping people, this government seems most interested in helping their friends, skirting accountability, and spending as little time in the legislature as possible. You can read more about their upsetting conduct below.
Yours in community service,

Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- PCs Seize Control of Intimate Partner Violence Study
- When Will Minister Piccini Stop the Gravy Train?
- Bills 60 and 33 Rammed Through Without Consultation
- Join my Youth Council!
- Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Party - You’re Invited!
- Ministries of the Attorney General and Solicitor General Estimates
- Unelected School Supervisors Paid $350,000
- Parliament Street Rooming Houses Revitalization
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| PCs Seize Control of Intimate Partner Violence Study |
This week was a rollercoaster on the intimate partner violence epidemic declaration front.
On Thursday morning, the government moved a motion to declare intimate partner violence (IPV) as endemic in Ontario. It passed. The NDP moved for the 5th time, our motion to declare IPV an epidemic. The government voted against our motion, defeating - yet again - an opportunity to declare IPV an epidemic, a declaration that organizations and experts have been calling for for years.
I am cautiously hopeful that this endemic declaration will be helpful to survivors and come with funding and increased government attention to the issue of IPV. I will continue to work with lawyers and feminists in the IPV-prevention sector to understand the implications of this new word and how we can continue to push the government. It is disappointing that the government has decided to turn its back on the 106 municipalities, 150+ community organizations, and numerous police forces that have declared this epidemic. The fact that they chose a different word makes it feel like they care more about blocking the NDP’s efforts than about the wishes of survivors and experts. This government was invited to join an established movement but chose not to. This is disappointing, but I am still looking forward to working with them.
Just before all of the above occurred, on Wednesday night, the government moved another motion to direct the IPV sub-committee to meet and consider a draft committee report. That is standard. However, what is not standard is that the report we are being asked to consider was written solely by PC MPP Jess Dixon. It is highly irregular that any MPP, let alone a government member acting alone, would write a committee report. That is a job reserved for non-partisan committee clerks, professional staff who are highly experienced at writing these reports in a balanced and non-partisan manner. I asked several clerks whether this had ever been done before. Not one of the legislative clerks could recall a time when an MPP had written a draft committee report.
I had the opportunity to speak to this motion in the Legislature, which you can watch here.
I have not yet seen this report. There is a possibility that it is balanced, however, there is a real risk that it is not and that worries me. All of the report consideration and editing will be done in committee “in closed session,” meaning that the public will not be able to observe and I will not be able to share anything about how decisions were made or what was altered from the original draft. This is typical of report writing, but remember that it is also typical that the report is written by non-partisan staff. I am concerned about this entire process being so removed from the public, especially since the committee is made up of a majority of government members.
I will continue to bring you updates on this process, sharing what I am allowed to share, over the next few weeks.
| When Will Minister Piccini Stop the Gravy Train? |
| Bills 60 and 33 Rammed Through Without Consultation |
This week Ford used a time allocation motion so that he can ram Bill 60 and Bill 33 through Queen’s Park. Time allocation motions drastically shorten the time that a bill is required to be debate. In this case, it will allow Ford to skip the public consultation and committee amendments process.
Both of these bills are incredibly flawed and require significant changes in order to actually benefit Ontarians. However, because of this undemocratic move by Ford’s PCs, they will be sent for final votes without any changes. To quote York – South Weston Tenants Union's founder Chiara Padovani, "The fact that the government doesn’t want to have the public consultations is because they know the public is adamantly opposed."
I will continue to speak up against these bills in the Legislature. If you have stories about how you or your loved ones would be affected by these changes to housing and education, please reply to this email. I would love to hear from you and share your story in the Legislature.
|
Join my Youth Council! |
Are you between the age of 17-25 with a passion for politics, policy, and community building? Apply to the Toronto Centre Youth Council to have your voice heard on provincial issues.
Join Our First Session - pizza provided!
Date: November 26, 2025
Time: 4:45-6PM
Location: 120 Carlton St, Unit 401
Apply now: kristyn.ca/youth-council
| Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Party - You’re Invited! |
Get ready for a fabulous Toronto Centre NDP Holiday Park with lunch, prize giveaways, entertainment, festive cheer, and, of course, surprise VIP guests!
Date: December 7, 2025
Time: 1 PM - 4 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
All are welcome, including Santa’s little helpers. Please register here to reserve your seats.
|
Ministries of the Attorney General and Solicitor General Estimates |
This week, I attended Estimates hearings for both the Ministry of the Attorney General (responsible for courts and tribunals) and the Ministry of the Solicitor General (responsible for jails, policing, and first responders). Estimates is a time when the Ministries open up their budget books and show the public how much they are planning to spend, alongside how much they have historically spent.
Estimates hearings are excellent opportunities to hold Ministers directly accountable for the actions and priorities of their Ministries. They are something that I look forward to all year!
This year, I had the opportunity to interrogate the Attorney General about the unacceptable backlogs in our courts and tribunals, asking him how and where he was making investments to speed up processing times for tenants, landlords, human rights claimants, victims of crime, and those waiting in jail for their hearings. As usual I was given evasive answers, but I also got under the Attorney General’s skin. I am hopeful that I will continue to make him uncomfortable enough to take action on behalf of all of the people who are waiting for their hearing dates.
| Unelected School Supervisors Paid $350,000 |
Remember those unelected school board supervisors that Education Minister Paul Calandra installed in the TDSB, TCDSB, and other boards across Ontario? The ones with zero experience in teaching, education, or school board administration?
Recent estimates hearings have revealed that they are being paid $2,000 per day, three days per week. That means that they are being paid up to $350,000 a year by us, the taxpayers, to ignore parents and students. Meanwhile democratically elected trustees are no longer being paid at all and have been stripped of the ability to do their jobs.
What more, these “supervisors” don't respond to parent emails or phone calls, they don’t attend committee meetings, and they won't answer media questions. What are they doing all day?
It is shameful that they are collecting these lucrative salaries while refusing to engage with the people they’re supposed to serve. Ontario families deserve transparency, accountability, and local representation, not government buddies collecting six-figure salaries to silence local voices.
| Parliament Street Rooming Houses Revitalization |

What a milestone! On Tuesday, I was thrilled to celebrate Dixon Hall as they officially opened their newly renovated Parliament Street Rooming Houses. This revitalization includes the meticulous heritage restoration of four contiguous Victorian properties as well as wraparound supports to ensure that the vulnerable people housed here will be successful.
I visited the site last year and it was inspiring to see all the progress their team has made since then. It’s heartwarming to know community members will be able to step out of homelessness into safe, dignified, and supportive housing with the help and support of Dixon Hall. This is exactly what our communities need!
| This Week's Meetings |

- Ontario Trial Lawyers Association
- Innovative Medicines Canada
- Association des conseils scolaires des écoles publiques de l’Ontario (ACÉPO)
- Ontario Book Publishers Organization
- Better Way Alliance
- Ontario Nurse Practitioners Association
- Hospice Palliative Care Ontario
- Bellwood Toronto & EHN Canada
- Toronto Drop-In Network
| This Week's Headlines |
Toronto councillor, fire chief want regulations increased for lithium-ion batteries
Doug Ford quietly kills Toronto’s green roof bylaw
St. James Town apartment fire sends 3 to hospital
A look at Cabbagetown's newly renovated rooming homes
Toronto police release detailed data on intimate partner violence for the 1st time
Toronto mayor announces new plan to improve TTC safety
Fall fiscal update shows projections for new home construction slowing down in Ontario
| Upcoming Community Events |
| CWNA’s Welcome Winter Open House |
The Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association (CWNA) invites community members to take part in their monthly executive meeting followed by the 2nd Annual Welcome Winter Open House this Saturday Nov 8th. All are welcome to attend.
Executive Meeting: 10 AM - 12 PM
To join, please email info@cwna to confirm your participation.
Welcome Winter Open House: 1 - 3 PM
Help usher in the season with hot chocolate, coffee, treats, and community cheer, while supporting a wonderful local initiative.
Donate new children’s mittens and hats to decorate the Mitten Tree — all gifts will go to students at Church Street Public School.
CWNA is also collecting gently used adult winter outerwear to share with neighbours in need.
Last year, the community donated over 130 pairs of mittens and hats — let’s make this year’s event even warmer!
|
Remembrance Day at the St James’ Cemetery |
Join the Cabbagetown community as they come together to honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The annual Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at St James’ Cemetery, featuring a traditional service with music, hymns, readings, and the laying of wreaths.
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Location: St. James’ Cemetery, 635 Parliament Street, Toronto ON
Doors: 9:45 AM
Ceremony: 10:00 AM - the ceremony will begin promptly.
This meaningful community gathering offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, uniting neighbours, veterans, and local representatives in remembrance.
Following the ceremony and wreath laying, historian Gilles Hout of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association will lead a guided walking tour of veteran graves within St. James’ Cemetery. Attendees will be invited to place poppies at individual headstones as a personal act of remembrance.
Complimentary coffee, tea, pastries, and cookies will be available for attendees, generously provided by Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events and McDonald’s.
| The Children's Book Bank Story Soirée |
The Children's Book Bank is inviting you to their Story Soirée on November 13, from 5:30-8:30PM. This fundraiser event will celebrate 17 years of impact and support the continued growth of Book Bank locations across the city.
This elegant fundraiser features:
- CBB Champions Awards Ceremony
- Live musical performances
- Engage with children’s authors and illustrators
- Food and drinks
- Live silent auction
With a goal of raising $50,000, your ticket helps bring books and literacy programs to children across our communities.
Story Soirée Event Details:
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 5:30 - 8:30pm
Location: Ada Slaight Hall, 585 Dundas St E
| Little Trinity Christmas Market |
Little Trinity Church invites community members to join in the holiday spirit at the second annual Little Trinity Christmas Market, held in collaboration with the Good Food Market.
Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, local treats, and holiday shopping:
- Live Music: Come enjoy seasonal performances by Dr. Ben!
- Free Goodies: Take a load off and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider, and yummy treats!
- Unique Gifts: Do your holiday shopping and pick up some unique hand-made gifts for your loved ones!
- Groceries: Stop by our regular produce market, offering high quality fruits and veggies at wholesale prices!
All proceeds will go to Good Shepherd Ministries, a local organization that serves over 1000 meals a day to those in need.
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Location: Little Trinity Church
| Regent Park Youth Safety & Well-Being Forum |
The Regent Park Youth Safety & Well-Being Forum is a community-driven initiative that fosters a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for young people in Regent Park to engage in open conversations about safety, security, and mental health.
This forum encourages self-reflection, community connection, and helps youth access real-world support systems to promote overall well-being.
Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter Street
Open to all youth residents of Regent Park.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
| Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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.
Find out more by clicking here!
| Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards - Nominations Open |
Nominations for the 2026 Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards are now open until January 15. If you know a changemaker in your community who deserves recognition, please consider submitting a nomination using this form.
Who Can Be Nominated:
There are four categories: Individual, Group, Women, and Youth (under 25). Any Ontario resident, or Ontario-based organization, group, or initiative may be nominated. This includes educators, writers, community workers, social and political activists, social action groups, trade unions, youth organizations, multicultural organizations, schools, coalitions, professional associations, media, and service clubs.
The award ceremony will be held in March 2026.

Dear friend,
Happy Hallowe'en and let's go Blue Jays!
This is one of my favourite times of the year and made even more special because of Game 6. If our beloved Toronto Blue Jays hold off the LA Dodgers tonight, Hallowe’en parties are going to get even more boisterous with the World Series Championship win!
Do be careful when driving and make sure to watch out for the little ghouls and goblins crossing the streets at night. Watching kids proudly parade in their costumes with heavy bags of hard-earned candy is heart-melting joy for this parent. I’m excited to be trick-or-treating with my son this evening.
There are many Hallowe'en parties happening across the province and the biggest one will be right here in Toronto Centre. I encourage everyone to come out to Hallowe'en on Church tonight in the Church-Wellesley Village to take in the incredible creativity on display, enjoy performances, and support our local businesses. I am wishing everyone a safe and happy Hallowe'en full of fun tricks and sweet treats!

Unfortunately this week, Doug Ford and his devilish government lost their souls and had us debating heartless legislation. From removing tenant protections to banning speed cameras to weakening our democracy, they created a real house of horrors.
But as you likely know, Ford quickly backpedaled away (for now) his plan to end month-to-month leases for residential tenants after MPPs received hundreds of thousands of emails and calls from frightened and angry tenants worried they could lose their homes. This is proof of the power that tenants have and the ways that your voice matters! If you all had not shared your rage, consultations on the removal of month-to-month leases would still be going forward. I am especially proud of the thousands of Toronto Centre tenants who reached out to my office. Thank you for sharing your stories with me. I'm still working hard to reply to each and every single one of you.
This week I asked the Attorney General directly why he would threaten the very foundation of affordable housing in Ontario. He dodged the question, which you can watch here. I also had the opportunity to provide my full comments on Bill 60 this week. This government bill aims to weaken tenant protections. You can watch my speech, which includes the stories of many tenants who wrote in, here.
Bill 60 is still damaging omnibus legislation that will erode tenant protections (in addition to many other areas), allowing the Landlord Tenant Board to evict tenants faster by reducing the amount of time they have to pay their arrears to seven days and find a lawyer to just 14. These timelines are unreasonable for most tenants as they advantage wealthy corporate landlords with in-house lawyers and Bay Street law firms on retainer. Bill 60 will result in the termination of tenancies that could have been saved. If you want to learn more about Bill 60, the Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario has a great explainer.
None of the changes proposed in Bill 60 will make housing safer, more affordable, or better maintained. All this bill will do is speed up evictions for our most vulnerable tenants, which will only make homelessness worse in Toronto and across Ontario. Rest assured I will be fighting it every step of the way. And you can too, by sharing your story with my office, sharing your thoughts directly with the government by deputing at committee, joining your local tenants association or an advocacy group like the Toronto Centre Tenant Union, or signing up to canvass with me here. So many groups are ready to fight and they need your voice!
It is frustrating that Ford and his Housing Minister continue to table legislation that makes life harder for tenants while ignoring the recommendations of their own Housing Task Force and other housing experts. The Ontario NDP has been promoting our Homes Ontario plan to get the government back into the business of building affordable housing for years. We are also working with legal clinics and tenant organizations to get this government to listen and bring back in-person Landlord Tenant Board Hearings. I will continue to push for legislation that makes housing more affordable to end the housing and homelessness crisis.
This week Doug Ford decided to take yet another huge swing at democracy, stating that he would soon be tabling legislation (likely in next week’s Fall Economic Statement) to scrap fixed-term elections and nearly double political donation limits. This should scare everyone.
For the past nearly 20 years, Ontario has had fixed-term election dates, giving us predictability in when elections would be held. Since 2016, Ontario’s provincial general elections has been scheduled for the first Thursday in June, four years after the last general election. Governments were free to call an election earlier if they received agreement from MPPs, but they could not schedule it later. Now Ford wants the power to call an election whenever he likes and be able to sit in government for up to five years. A five-year term is technically allowed under the Canadian constitution, but is generally not used as convention (and fixed election dates) dictate a four year term. This is just another way that Ford is trying to increase chaos and confusion while ensuring he is in power for as long as possible.
Massively increasing maximum political donations, from $3,400 to $5,000 is another way that this government is trying to cement its power. The PCs know that they have the greatest access to wealthy donors and they want to fill their bank accounts ahead of the next election. Every time that donation limits go up by more than inflationary amounts, they benefit the parties that cater to the wealthiest. It is anti-democratic and wrong – especially since individuals can donate the maximum up to three times in a year with an election: to the political party itself, a local riding association before the campaign begins, and the local candidate’s campaign during the writ period. That is $15,000 in one year with these new limits. Who has that kind of money to throw around? Certainly not most residents in Toronto Centre. I am worried that these changes will only widen economic disparities in Ontario as the Ford government becomes even more beholden to their wealthy friends and donors.
Thank you for subscribing to our weekly newsletter. If you enjoy reading it and believe others will too, please don't keep us a secret and share it with your friends and family who enjoy being kept up to date with Ontario news.
Yours in community service,

Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- Solicitor General Estimates Hearing
- Skilled Immigrants Left Behind
- Toronto Centre NDP AGM
- My Child Care Townhall
- 50 Years of the Ontario Ombudsman
- Homeless Connect Toronto
- Meeting with OPSEU/SEFPO Mental Health Workers
- Ontario Volunteer Service Awards
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| Solicitor General Estimates Hearing |
Over this past week and next week, the Legislature is holding a series of committee meetings to review budgetary spending called “estimates.” Each Ministry has a separate meeting, attended by the Minister, Assistant Deputy Ministers, and select MPPs. At these meetings MPPs have an opportunity to question the Minister and his staff about estimated spending for the following fiscal year, referencing a document of estimated spending sent out beforehand.
This week I attended Estimates for the Minister of the Solicitor General, where I and my colleague Jennie Stevens questioned the Minister about overcrowding in provincial jails, the treatment of people in mental health crisis in custody, and the treatment of the whales and other animals at Marineland.
Next week I will be participating in Estimates for the Ministry of the Attorney General. I will bring you all of those updates next week.
|
Skilled Immigrants Left Behind |

Qualified workers invited by the Ontario Government to apply for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) are waiting three years for application decisions promised in six months. They are waiting so long that their work permits are expiring, resulting in them losing their jobs and their healthcare, even though their employers want them to keep working!
On Tuesday, nearly 100 OINP applicants and their families joined me at Queen’s Park, many of them skilled trades workers waiting to work on building Ontario’s much-needed housing. They filled the galleries while MPP Alexa Gilmour and I asked the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development why he was making these hardworking and people wait while employers went without their skills. You can watch the question (and the non-answer) here.
| Toronto Centre NDP AGM |

On Sunday I was thrilled to attend and participate in the Toronto Centre NDP’s Annual General Meeting. It was a huge success! We elected a new executive, received annual reports, and heard updates from our democratically elected School Board Trustee Dee WIlliams, 2025 Federal Candidate Samantha Green. I also had the chance to give an update about my work at Queen’s Park and out in the community.
We were also lucky to be joined by all five federal leadership candidates; Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, Avi Lewis, Heather MacPherson, and Tony McQuail. It was a treat to hear them all speak and share their vision for the party.
And of course it wouldn’t be the Toronto Centre NDP without a good social afterwards, so thank you to The Well for hosting us as we chatted the evening away!
|
My Child Care Townhall |

Thank you to all of our community members who came out to our Childcare Townhall on Wednesday night! A special thank you to our panelists Angela Zhu of Toronto Parents for Child Care, Erin Filby of Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario (AECEO), and Carolyn Ferns of Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care (OCBCC). They all shared important insight into Ontario’s childcare crisis and SAWRO ran a thought-provoking and interactive workshop about the realities and implications of our current childcare system on low income families.
With the provincial-federal childcare agreement expiring in less than 5 months, it’s crucial now more than ever to push our governments to do better, and ensure the system receives the funding needed to retain existing spaces and expand to meet the needs for working parents.
Demand that Ford sign the new $10-day child care agreement! Sign the petition here:
| 50 Years of the Ontario Ombudsman |
On Wednesday, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Ontario Ombudsman’s Office and the invaluable public service that they provide for Ontarians. The Ombudsman has revealed issues of fairness at the Landlord Tenant Board, torture at Maplehurst Correctional Complex, egregiously inappropriate housing for children in care, and much more. We are lucky to have our Ombudsman and need to ensure their ongoing independence.
I was honoured to have the opportunity to acknowledge this anniversary and thank our current Ombudsman, Paul Dubé, for his service in the Legislature. You can watch my speech here.
It is critical that the office of the Ombudsman remains impartial and properly funded, so that Ontarians can trust that the government of the day is being properly overseen and fairness is being upheld.
| Homeless Connect Toronto |

Homeless Connect Toronto’s 12th annual One-Stop-Shop was last weekend and I was so happy to stop by! I had the chance to tour the event, meet Torontonians impacted by homelessness, and see firsthand the amazing work being done by community partners providing housing, employment, and other essential supports. I am so grateful that this meaningful event happens in our community every year.
| Meeting with OPSEU/SEFPO Mental Health Workers |

Yesterday, I had an opportunity to meet with OPSEU/SEFPO’s division of Mental Health and Addictions workers, who are at the frontline of delivering compassionate mental healthcare and actively tackling Ontario’s ongoing mental health crisis.
The Ford government’s decisions to privatize healthcare services, increase staffing shortages, and ineffectively address safety and violence in these spaces have run our mental healthcare services into instability and unsafe conditions for workers and patients alike.
These workers know best what needs to be changed on the ground, and what systemic changes need to be addressed immediately. I am proud to continue to be their voice at Queens Park and advocate for the changes we need to improve mental healthcare services for all across Ontario.
| Ontario Volunteer Service Awards |

On Tuesday evening, my fellow MPPs and I had the privilege of honouring some incredible members of our community at the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards! I am so thankful to the Volunteer Recognition Unit at the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism for all of the hard work they put into organizing this event. Volunteers play significant roles in our community’s organizations and their selfless dedication must be recognized. With a combined total of 2,584 years of volunteering between this year’s award recipients, it’s safe to say these amazing superheroes must be celebrated!
| This Week's Meetings |

- United Food and Commercial Workers
- OPSEU Mental Health and Addictions Workers
- Academy of Learning Career College
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Ontario
| What's Making Headlines |
West Toronto supervised consumption site shutting down after Ford government pulls funding
Toronto’s waterfront music venue renamed RBC Amphitheatre, will close in 2027 for renos
How good is the Jays' rookie pitcher? Here's a look at Yesavage's record-breaking Game 5 stats
Ontario to consolidate conservation authorities, create new oversight agency
Ontario renters, cyclists, environmentalists concerned about Ford omnibus bill
Speed cameras across Ontario to be removed in 2 weeks, transportation minister says
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Halloween on Church |
Halloween on Church in The Village is back on October 31st from 6:30 PM to midnight! Prepare for a night of wicked fun, eerie surprises and unforgettable festivities.
Because of the massive success of Halloween on Church, the Church and Wellesley BIA has expanded to Saturday, November 1st, from 7 PM to midnight as well. Make sure you bring your spirit and your monster mash moves to Canada's biggest Halloween bash. Find out more here.
| Samhain in Corktown: Pumpkin Parade |
On November 1, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Sackville Playground, the Corktown Neighbourhood Association is hosting another Pumpkin Parade!
This free event is for everyone! So come out, don your scary costumes and masks and let’s all celebrate Samhain!
| Remembrance Day at the St James’ Cemetery |
Join the Cabbagetown community as they come together to honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The annual Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at St James’ Cemetery, featuring a traditional service with music, hymns, readings, and the laying of wreaths.
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Location: St. James’ Cemetery, 635 Parliament Street, Toronto ON
Doors: 9:45 AM
Ceremony: 10:00 AM - the ceremony will begin promptly.
This meaningful community gathering offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, uniting neighbours, veterans, and local representatives in remembrance.
Following the ceremony and wreath laying, historian Gilles Hout of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association will lead a guided walking tour of veteran graves within St. James’ Cemetery. Attendees will be invited to place poppies at individual headstones as a personal act of remembrance.
Complimentary coffee, tea, pastries, and cookies will be available for attendees, generously provided by Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events and McDonald’s.
| Youth Justice Community Forum |
Be part of youth-centred discussions exploring barriers and supports for Black, racialized, and neurodiverse youth in the justice system.
Join Youth Justice for the Youth Justice Transformation Lab and Inclusive Justice Collaborative's Youth Justice Community Forum on November 18, 2025 at 9 AM - 5 PM at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road)!
Be part of youth-centred discussions exploring barriers and supports for Black, racialized, and neurodiverse youth in the justice system. This year, the Youth Justice Community Forum will feature discussions on current youth justice issues including how the child welfare and education systems also impact justice-involvement, Bill 33, bail reform, justice centres, how justice professionals can best support young people, and more! Hear from and connect with young people, justice professionals, community agencies, educators, and other stakeholders from the child welfare, education and youth justice systems.
Stay tuned for speaker and more event details. Law Society of Ontario EDI professionalism hours are pending and may be available for justice professionals in attendance.
For any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].
| Environmental Impacts of New AI Data Centres in Ontario |
The Environmental Registry of Ontario is inviting public feedback on the proposal “New Requirements for Data Centres Seeking to Connect to the Electricity Grid in Ontario” — open until November 4, 2025.
This consultation seeks input on the types of data centres that would be subject to new requirements, including those with large electrical connections (over 50 megawatts) and facilities located in areas where the electricity grid may be constrained or have surplus capacity.
Learn more and provide feedback through the Environmental Registry of Ontario: ERO Notice 025-1001. You can also learn more from The Narwhal’s in-depth article here on data centres and whether or not they are a potential threat to the Great Lakes.
| Newcomer Women’s Program |
Pathway to Possibilities is hosting a Newcomer Women Program. This is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates.
This program runs from October 20 to December 12, 2025. Apply by filling out the form here.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
|
Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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. 4
Find out more by clicking here!
| Staying Isn’t Choosing Campaign |
The Staying Isn’t Choosing campaign is now live!
This campaign was developed by Timmins and Area Women in Crisis (TAWC) and Ellevive in Northern Ontario. At the centre of this initiative are five powerful videos that raise awareness, dispel harmful myths, and highlight the systemic barriers that make leaving unsafe relationships so difficult.
This campaign addresses the complexity of abuse — including coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse — and was designed to resonate widely across communities.
- Explore the campaign and videos: stayingisntchoosing.ca
- Follow the campaign on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
| Senior Assistance Home Maintenance Program |

Calling all people with disabilities and seniors who need help with snow clearing, lawn cutting, leaf raking, and other yard tasks! Sunshine Centres for Seniors is here to help with their Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program.
Sunshine Centres is also looking for casual, part-time workers to join their Home Maintenance Program Team. If you are interested, send your resume to Kevin at [email protected].
For more information and to register, contact Kevin at [email protected] or (647) 687-7322
|
WomenACT Petition |
WomanACT has prepared a petition asking Amazon to remove the Term “Wife Beater” from Its Product Descriptions.
The concern is that Amazon is continuing to use the term “wife beater” to describe men’s undershirts on its website, despite a ruling by Canada’s Ad Standards Council that this descriptor violates the advertising Code by displaying indifference to violence against women. Amazon has defended its decision by arguing that the term is “common” and accepted in popular culture. But normalization does not excuse harm.
Sign their petition telling Amazon to remove the term “Wife Beater” from its product descriptions!
| Pumpkin Carving Drop-In |
Allan Gardens is hosting three family events. On Saturday October 25, pumpkin carving happens from 10 AM to 2 PM. On Wednesday October 29 and Thursday October 30, it’s an after-school events from 4 to 7 pm. Mini pumpkins and carving tools are supplied. Parental supervision is required. It’s free but a $5 donation will be appreciated. Find then at Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory at 19 Horticultural Lane! Find more information here.
| Halloween on the Promenade |
Kids are invited to go door-to-door to businesses along the Front Street promenade, between Bayview and Cherry, on Halloween from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. Businesses will have goodies to give away. There’ll be a dog-costume parade with prizes at 5:45 pm and a parade at 6 pm - assemble at the Water Guardian at 474 Front East! There’s lots of information here.
|
Cabbagetown Pumpkin Walk |
| Movies at Stout Irish Pub! |
Weekly free movie nights at Stout Irish Pub at 221 Carlton Street. The lineup features family movies so bring your kids. On this Sunday, October 19, it’s “Hocus Pocus” and on October 26, “Ghost Busters”. There’s free popcorn!
Movies begin each Sunday at 5:30 PM. Please contact Erin to save your spot at (647) 344-7676 or by email at [email protected].

Dear friend,
I was back in the Legislature this week for the first time in five months, and I oh man, was it busy! My staff joke that this week was a long year in politics. The building was full of community groups, professional associations, unions, and, of course, politicians. I am so happy to be back and able to challenge this government to their face, as well as share some of my own ideas that I have been working on over summer.
But before we get into all of that, we have to celebrate our Blue Jays! Tonight they play the first game of the World Series right here at home, and we are all rooting for them! This is an exciting moment for our city and Blue Jays fans everywhere who have been waiting for this since 1993. I know so many of us would love to be there in the stands, cheering on our team and seeing the action first-hand. But sadly, most fans are priced out. Not by the team themselves, but by ticket resellers, dynamic pricing, and bots. This is a consumer protection issue that has been plaguing us for years, but with Taylor Swift and now the Blue Jays, the problem has boiled over.
That is why on Wednesday — before Ford ran his mouth to the media — I tabled a new motion calling on the Ford government to update the Ticket Sales Act by banning the resale of tickets above their face value.
If Ford had acted when I first advocated this change in December of last year, Blue Jays fans would not be getting gouged today. But sadly, Ford chose to ignore my motion.
Nobody should be making money on the backs of fans, nor should regular people go into debt just to cheer on their team or see their favourite artist.
If Ford’s Conservatives don’t allow my motion to pass, then you can point your fingers at Doug for why all but the ultra-wealthy are priced out of the World Series. To learn more about the motion, you can watch my press conference about it here.
If not for Doug Ford and his Conservatives, we would not be in this mess. In 2019, Ford went out of his way to repeal laws limiting ticket resale prices. The law had not yet come into force, but if it had, it could have protected fans and put resellers out of business. But Ford sided with resellers and companies like Ticketmaster over regular folks looking for a fun night out. You may also remember that I tabled a motion, similar to my current one, back in November when Taylor Swift tickets were priced sky-high. Ford failed to seize that opportunity to protect consumers from gouging as well, instead enriching millionaires and shady resellers at the expense (literally) of everyday Ontarians.
This week, while dodging questions about Ontario’s jobs disaster and his Labour Minister’s shady dealings, Ford dangled the carrot of “maybe” protecting Ontarians from predatory ticket resellers. But we don’t need a maybe; we need clear protections now. Send a message to Ford that fans deserve fair pricing now!
But tonight, we will focus on cheering on our Blue Jays and enjoying the game, even if we can’t be in the stadium. The City is setting up a huge screen at Nathan Philips Square so that fans can join together to watch the action! Bars and restaurants will, of course, also be playing the game, so let's support local as we cheer on our team!
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Yesterday, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing tabled Bill 60, a massive omnibus bill. It has 16 schedules, and buried in the middle is a set of changes to the Residential Tenancies Act.
Rumours are swirling that this bill ends “security of tenure,” a provision in the Residential Tenancies Act that ensures that all tenants are able to stay in their rented homes perpetually as long as they follow the terms of the lease. This is why leases become month-to-month after one year, and a landlord cannot ask a tenant to leave after that first year. Residential leases do not expire in Ontario. This bill does not change that. Yet.
Government materials about this bill reference the fact that they will be holding consultations about the ending of security of tenure and the creation of “alternative options on lease agreement expiry.” This would be a disaster for housing stability in Ontario and effectively the end of rent control. Landlords could force tenants to move out for no reason other than that their lease has expired, forcing them to find new housing in a market that grows more expensive every year. Seniors and young families would be totally destabilized and unable to plan for their futures.
This proposed change is meant to cover up Ford’s failures at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). The LTB has been hobbling along for years, barely functioning, but Doug Ford has well and truly broken it since he took office. Applications about breach of contract filed by both landlords and tenants are taking 18 months or more to be processed, when they should take just 30 or 40 days. Landlords have every right to quick adjudication when a tenant fails to pay rent or damages property, just as tenants have the right to a safe and well-maintained home. Fixing the LTB is the real solution to the legitimate concerns of landlords, not the removal of security of tenure. But ending security of tenure is exactly what corporate landlords who want to jack up the rent want. And Ford is catering to them.
I am ready to fight tooth and nail against this policy, and I know many tenants and advocates are as well. We have to stay strong, remember that this legislation doesn’t exist yet, and that we still have time to fight against it. But we need to get organized now. A good first step is to email Doug Ford and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing about your vehement opposition to the removal of security of tenure. You can do so by adding your name here.
We all woke up this morning to the news that Donald Trump no longer wants to negotiate with Canada around tariffs because of Doug Ford’s anti-tariff ads on American television. Ford spent $75 million of Ontario taxpayers’ money on the ads and used audio from President Ronald Regan’s presidential address without authorization (the audio was in the public domain, but it is customary to seek permission from a president’s foundation).
Doug Ford was never Captain Canada, no matter how hard he tried to be. This just proves it. He spent all summer pulling press stunts to distract from his failures, but today he cancelled two press conferences because he is too embarrassed to face journalists. Of course, we know that Donald Trump is not a reasonable person, and he was likely looking for an excuse to call off negotiations, but it is frustrating that this massive use of public money has only served to hurt the people of Ontario. Rest assured, I will be holding Ford accountable for these choices next week in the Legislature.
Yours in community service,

Kristyn Wong-Tam
MPP, Toronto Centre
| In This Newsletter |
- Toronto Centre NDP AGM - Meet Federal NDP Leadership Candidates!
- You’re Invited: Childcare Townhall this Wednesday!
- Judge Throws Out Murder Case Over Jail Mistreatment
- Skills Development Fund Scandal Continues
- Mid Autumn Festival Celebration
- Islamic Heritage Month Reception
- Church Wellesley Community Victory over Developers!
- No Police In Schools Rally
- This Week’s Meetings
- What’s Making Headlines
- Local Community Events
| Toronto Centre NDP AGM - Meet Federal NDP Leadership Candidates! |
Want to meet the Federal NDP leadership hopefuls? Join me this Sunday for the Toronto Centre NDP Riding Association AGM to hear from candidates Tanille Johnston, Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, and Tony McQuail!
At the meeting, we will also elect our new riding association executive, hear updates from me, Federal Candidate Samantha Green, and the outgoing executive, and have a chance to connect with fellow Toronto Centre New Democrats.
All are welcome, though only members in good standing who live in Toronto Centre (or have had their memberships transferred) will be able to vote. If you would like to check your membership status or sign up, volunteers will be available to help!
There is also a virtual option for those who cannot attend in person.
Time: registration opens at 12:30 PM, meeting called to order at 1 PM
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Location: OPSEU Membership Centre, 31 Wellesley St E (across from Wellesley Station) or online
| You’re Invited: Childcare Townhall this Wednesday! |
My Childcare Townhall is happening this upcoming Wednesday, October 29, at 6 PM! If you are as fired up about the need for affordable and accessible child care as I am, I hope that you will join me and my special guests at the Regent Park Community Centre.
Child-minding and dinner will be provided! RSVP here to attend. RSVP is required to secure childminding.
|
Judge Throws Out Murder Case Over Jail Mistreatment |
First-degree murder charges were just stayed in Ontario directly because of Doug Ford’s failure to deliver timely justice and jails that live up to basic human rights standards. The staying of charges will effectively collapse proceedings against the accused, adding to the list of serious criminal trials that have collapsed on Ford’s watch.
The defense used the collective punishment of prisoners at Maplehurst Correctional Complex in late 2023 to argue that the charges against the accused should be stayed. The accused were part of the violent strip search and mistreatment of over 200 prisoners at Maplehurst following the punching of a guard by an inmate. Judge Clayton Conlan’s words are damning: “First-degree murder and attempted murder charges will not be tried on their merits. The victims and their families and close ones will not see the proceeding continue to its normal end. The community as a whole will not get the satisfaction of having a proper trial on the merits.”
With the support of Ontario NDP MPPs, I have repeatedly called for a public inquiry into collective punishment at Maplehurst earlier this year: demands that Solicitor General Michael Kerzner has ignored.
As unthinkable as today’s ruling is, every Ontarian should know that nothing is stopping this from happening again. Ford is still refusing to commit to a basic public inquiry. He's still refusing to invest in speeding up the courts and improving access to justice. Ford is still pretending that the collective punishment of inmates at Maplehurst isn’t a blaring red alarm for how our correctional system is crumbling because of chronic under-investment in the safety of corrections officers and inmates.
What's happening in our justice system is another reflection of Ford’s jobs disaster. He has failed to make correctional facilities safe for workers. He has failed to invest in the court staff needed to guarantee timely trials in Charter-required time frames. He is letting everyone in Ontario down and cannot admit when he is wrong.
| Skills Development Fund Scandal Continues |
We all know that Doug Ford and his Conservatives have been a jobs disaster for Ontario. Unemployment is at 7.9%, and the government could take meaningful actions to support workers: hiring desperately needed healthcare workers, supporting public colleges to save jobs for support workers, supporting workers in tariff-exposed industries, and committing to a Buy Ontario First procurement strategy. Instead, they are focused on protecting their friends and lobbyists who received millions from the Skills Development Fund despite submitting low-scoring applications.
This week, the Ontario NDP hit the Conservatives hard in Question Period, asking them why the Minister of Labour went to Paris for a lobbyist’s wedding and then gave that very same lobbyist’s clients millions from the Skills Development Fund. Minister Piccini refused to answer. We asked why high scoring applications, assessed by impartial public servants, were ignored while low-scoring applications with ties to the government were sent to the front of the funding line. The question was ignored.
Minister of Labour? More like Minister of Favours. He isn’t looking out for working people or the little guy. He is in it for his friends, using the public purse like his own personal slush fund. Minister Piccini must resign over this flagrant misuse of taxpayer dollars and the missed opportunities to support credible job creators. You have my word that the Ontario NDP will continue to push on this issue.
|
Mid Autumn Festival Celebration |

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! Today I had the joy of celebrating the festival season with hundreds of Chinese and Asian seniors from across our riding, featuring lots of hearty food, fun, and, of course, an abundance of mooncakes and lanterns! Thank you to Neighbourhood Information Post and TCHC for helping us organize this event! Holidays are always sweeter with community. I am wishing everyone a safe, happy, and prosperous Mid-Autumn Festival season! 中秋節快樂
| Islamic Heritage Month Reception |

October is Islamic Heritage Month, so of course we had to celebrate! The Ontario NDP hosted hundreds of community members at the Legislature for dinner, beautiful music, and lively conversation. I am so grateful to everyone who attended for sharing their faith and culture with us.
Every October, we recognize the significant political, economic, social and cultural contributions the Muslim community has made here in Ontario. It is also an important opportunity to centre Muslims and work together to tackle rampant anti-Muslim hate and work towards a safe and equitable Ontario for all. I look forward to working on these priorities this month and all year long.
| Church Wellesley Community Victory Over Developers! |

On Tuesday, I was proud to join the Church Wellesley Neighbourhood Association to celebrate a rare and hard-fought victory at the Ontario Land Tribunal. KingSett Capital's proposal would have taken over 505, 507 and 509 Church St. and 68, 72 and 76 Wellesley St East. This included the William McBean Terrace building, the iconic 1878 heritage-designated structure in the heart of the Village. Thank you to CWNA and City Planning for standing up for responsible development, tenant protection and respectful heritage integration in Canada’s oldest established 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
| Policing Free Schools Petition |
Students are safest in well-funded schools surrounded by caring teachers and education workers. We do not need expensive police in schools to criminalize our Black, Indigenous, and racialized students. We need real investments in public education.
I am very thankful to Policing-Free Schools for their tireless advocacy to keep all students safe in schools and provide the resources that students and education workers really need. This week, I was proud to table their petition and attend their rally to keep police out of schools and fund real supports for our public education system.
| This Week's Meetings |

- Ontario Medical Association
- Canadian Bankers Association
- Ontario Legislative Intern Program
- Ontario Architecture Association
- Canadian Cancer Society
| What's Making Headlines |
What a 50-year-old neighbourhood development can teach us about solving Canada’s housing crisis
PhD student pores over evictions data, finds better tenant protections needed
Casey House shutters harm reduction vending machines
'Once in a lifetime': Blue Jays fans prepare for first Toronto World Series game in decades
Woman charged after being found with homicide suspect linked to Niagara Falls Amber Alert
Air Canada makes ‘difficult decision’ to cut hundreds of management jobs
| Upcoming Community Events |
| Regent Park October Funfest |

The Friends of Regent Park are busy preparing for October Funfest! Join this festival on October 25 from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Bake Oven in Regent Park’s “The Big Park.”
The afternoon will be spent carving pumpkins, listening to music, dancing, and many other activities!
| Boo Barn at Riverdale Park! |

Riverdale Farm is hosting a Halloween Boo Barn! This will take place on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM at 201 Winchester Street.
There will be so many fun activities like face painting and crafts, and pumpkin carving! For more information, please call 416-392-6794 or email [email protected].
| Halloween on Church |
Halloween on Church in The Village is back on October 31st from 6:30 PM to midnight! Prepare for a night of wicked fun, eerie surprises and unforgettable festivities.
Because of the massive success of Halloween on Church, the Church and Wellesley BIA has expanded to Saturday, November 1st, from 7 PM to midnight as well. Make sure you bring your spirit and your monster mash moves to Canada's biggest Halloween bash. Find out more here.
| Samhain in Corktown: Pumpkin Parade |
On November 1, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Sackville Playground, the Corktown Neighbourhood Association is hosting another Pumpkin Parade!
This free event is for everyone! So come out, don your scary costumes and masks and let’s all celebrate Samhain!
| Environmental Impacts of New AI Data Centres in Ontario |
The Environmental Registry of Ontario is inviting public feedback on the proposal “New Requirements for Data Centres Seeking to Connect to the Electricity Grid in Ontario” — open until November 4, 2025.
This consultation seeks input on the types of data centres that would be subject to new requirements, including those with large electrical connections (over 50 megawatts) and facilities located in areas where the electricity grid may be constrained or have surplus capacity.
Learn more and provide feedback through the Environmental Registry of Ontario: ERO Notice 025-1001. You can also learn more from The Narwhal’s in-depth article here on data centres and whether or not they are a potential threat to the Great Lakes.
| Newcomer Women’s Program |
Pathway to Possibilities is hosting a Newcomer Women Program. This is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates.
This program runs from October 20 to December 12, 2025. Apply by filling out the form here.
| Ontario Legislative Page Program |
The recruitment period for the Spring 2026 session of the Legislative Page Program is now open until November 15, 2025.
Each year, high-achieving, community-oriented Grade 7 and 8 students from across Ontario are chosen to serve as Legislative Pages. This unique opportunity in Toronto allows selected students to become involved in Ontario’s parliamentary process, meet key figures, and make lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.
More information can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact the Page Program at [email protected] or by phone at (416) 325-7457.
|
Apply for $5,000 to support your community-led project! |
As a part of the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy (TSNS), they are providing the opportunity to apply for a grant that supports resident-led projects. These projects can encourage local activation and focus on the five domains of TSNS – economic opportunities, healthy lives, participation in civic 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. 4
Find out more by clicking here!
| Staying Isn’t Choosing Campaign |
The Staying Isn’t Choosing campaign is now live!
This campaign was developed by Timmins and Area Women in Crisis (TAWC) and Ellevive in Northern Ontario. At the centre of this initiative are five powerful videos that raise awareness, dispel harmful myths, and highlight the systemic barriers that make leaving unsafe relationships so difficult.
This campaign addresses the complexity of abuse — including coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuse — and was designed to resonate widely across communities.
- Explore the campaign and videos: stayingisntchoosing.ca
- Follow the campaign on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
| Senior Assistance Home Maintenance Program |

Calling all people with disabilities and seniors who need help with snow clearing, lawn cutting, leaf raking, and other yard tasks! Sunshine Centres for Seniors is here to help with their Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program.
Sunshine Centres is also looking for casual, part-time workers to join their Home Maintenance Program Team. If you are interested, send your resume to Kevin at [email protected].
For more information and to register, contact Kevin at [email protected] or (647) 687-7322
|
WomenACT Petition |
WomanACT has prepared a petition asking Amazon to remove the Term “Wife Beater” from Its Product Descriptions.
The concern is that Amazon is continuing to use the term “wife beater” to describe men’s undershirts on its website, despite a ruling by Canada’s Ad Standards Council that this descriptor violates the advertising Code by displaying indifference to violence against women. Amazon has defended its decision by arguing that the term is “common” and accepted in popular culture. But normalization does not excuse harm.
Sign their petition telling Amazon to remove the term “Wife Beater” from its product descriptions!
| Pumpkin Carving Drop-In |
Allan Gardens is hosting three family events. On Saturday October 25, pumpkin carving happens from 10 AM to 2 PM. On Wednesday October 29 and Thursday October 30, it’s an after-school events from 4 to 7 pm. Mini pumpkins and carving tools are supplied. Parental supervision is required. It’s free but a $5 donation will be appreciated. Find then at Allan Gardens Children’s Conservatory at 19 Horticultural Lane! Find more information here.
| Halloween on the Promenade |
Kids are invited to go door-to-door to businesses along the Front Street promenade, between Bayview and Cherry, on Halloween from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. Businesses will have goodies to give away. There’ll be a dog-costume parade with prizes at 5:45 pm and a parade at 6 pm - assemble at the Water Guardian at 474 Front East! There’s lots of information here.
|
Cabbagetown Pumpkin Walk |
| Movies at Stout Irish Pub! |
Weekly free movie nights at Stout Irish Pub at 221 Carlton Street. The lineup features family movies so bring your kids. On this Sunday, October 19, it’s “Hocus Pocus” and on October 26, “Ghost Busters”. There’s free popcorn!
Movies begin each Sunday at 5:30 PM. Please contact Erin to save your spot at (647) 344-7676 or by email at [email protected].



























































