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Rhythms of Change Book launch In Regent Park

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On November 12th, the launch of Rhythms of Change, Reflections on the Regent Park Revitalization by Mitchell Cohen took place at the UN World Urban Pavilion in Regent Park. This event marked a significant moment for the community as Cohen, CEO of The Daniels Corporation, shared insights into the 18-year revitalization of Regent Park. Daniels Corporation were the official developers for the first three phases of the Regent Park revitalization and played a key role in transforming Canada’s oldest public housing neighborhood into a vibrant, mixed-income community. Cohen’s book gives insight into this journey, emphasizing the importance of community-led development and strong partnerships between residents, stakeholders, and developers. The revitalization turned Regent Park into a model for inclusive urban renewal, highlighting innovative strategies that brought new housing, facilities, and opportunities to the area, while fostering deep connections within the community. At
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Toronto’s Board of Health Reviews Annual Health Progress, Bids Farewell to Dr. Eileen de Villa

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At the November 18th Board of Health meeting, chaired by Toronto City Councillor Chris Moise, important discussions unfolded, shaping the future of Toronto’s health and wellness strategies. From appointing a new Medical Officer of Health to advancing solutions for the city’s drug toxicity crisis, the meeting addressed some of the most pressing challenges facing our communities. The first item on the agenda was the appointment of Toronto’s next Medical Officer of Health. As Dr. Eileen de Villa prepares to step down at the end of the year, the hiring committee and Phelps Group have finalized their search, with a recommendation for her successor now under review. Next, the Board reviewed the 2024 progress report for Our Health, Our City, a five-year strategy tackling mental health, substance use, and harm reduction. The report highlights progress made this year, including the citywide expansion of the Toronto Community Crisis Service and new initiatives to support affordable housing a
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Community Consultation Meeting—Regent Park Phases 4 & 5 Zoning By-law amendments

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On October 30th, residents of Regent Park joined a virtual community consultation hosted by the City of Toronto to discuss proposed zoning amendments for the neighborhood’s Phases 4 and 5 revitalization. The meeting brought together representatives from Toronto Community Housing, Tridel, and City officials to address updates aimed at tackling infrastructure challenges and expanding housing options. A major point of discussion was the proposed addition of 98 market units and its potential implications for the 633 Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) units that have been a cornerstone of Regent Park’s redevelopment plan. Residents voiced their concerns about how the changes could affect the neighborhood’s affordability and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of preserving its legacy as a mixed-income, diverse community. Key presentations were delivered by City Planner Katherine Bailey, TCHC’s Peter Zimmerman, and Tridel’s Bryan Sherwood, who shared insights into the proposed changes and their
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Toronto Converts Shelter into Rent-Geared to income Housing

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Mayor Olivia Chow and City Councillor Chris Moise led a press conference today at 65 Dundas Street East, marking the grand opening of 92 rent-geared-to-income units in what was previously a temporary shelter. The new housing development reflects Toronto’s latest initiative to address the city’s urgent housing crisis by creating stable, affordable living spaces for residents in need. The 65 Dundas project is part of the city’s broader approach to addressing homelessness and affordable housing. By repurposing shelters into permanent housing, Toronto is focusing on reducing the need for emergency shelters, instead offering long-term options that are geared to income and tailored for individuals and families struggling to find stable housing. During the event, which took place at the newly opened housing, Councillor Moise stressed that affordable housing remains one of the city’s highest priorities, pointing out that rent-geared-to-income models can provide much-needed support and dignity
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SDP Planning Committee Meeting OCT 31, 2024

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The Regent Park Social Development Plan is a community-wide network that aims to promote social inclusion and cohesion and address issues in Regent Park. The planning committee is a coordinating body of the SDP. The main agenda topic for today’s October 31, 2024, meeting was a review of a draft policy to confront anti-Semitism. The discussion was facilitated by Joel Klassen (Co-Chair of the Community Building Working Group of the SDP). Joel helped  guide the conversation. Emotions ran high as participants shared their concerns and perspectives on this complex subject. Now, let’s go to the discussion.
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City Expands Winter Homelessness Plan as Cold Weather Approaches

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With the winter season approaching, the City of Toronto has introduced its Winter Services Plan to provide crucial support for the city’s homeless population, with a particular focus on downtown east communities like Regent Park. In Toronto, where winters bring severe cold, these measures are vital to ensuring the safety and dignity of the city’s most vulnerable residents. At a recent press conference, Gord Tanner, head of the city’s shelter and support services, highlighted the urgent need for additional resources. He noted that while 12,200 people are currently housed each night in city shelters, over 200 are still turned away daily due to capacity limits. To address this, the Winter Services Plan includes 530 additional temporary beds and the opening of three new respite centers, providing essential overnight relief between November 15 and April 15. On the coldest nights, the city will also open designated warming centers to offer extra space and shelter. City Councillor Alejandra B
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Lest we Forget—Cabbagetown Unites in Remembrance Day Tribute

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On November 11, community members gathered at Parliament and Carlton Streets for a Remembrance Day ceremony hosted by the Cabbagetown BIA, honoring Canada’s veterans and the sacrifices they made. This year’s observance brought together residents from Cabbagetown, Regent Park, and surrounding areas in a poignant display of remembrance and unity. The event began with Matthew Mohan, Executive Director of the Cabbagetown BIA, who welcomed attendees with heartfelt words. Bill Renieris, Chair of the Cabbagetown BIA, offered opening remarks, setting a reflective tone for the gathering. Silas Friesen, a talented trumpeter, led O Canada before Marci Ien, Member of Parliament, delivered a stirring reading of In Flanders Fields, followed by Silas’ rendition of O God, Our Help in Ages Past. Community voices Patty Junior of the Epicure Shop, Lissed Gamboa from Dixon Hall, and Gail Lynch of Zero Cocktail Bar shared a meaningful poem reading on Why We Wear a Poppy, underscoring the importance of rem
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NOTICE OF THE PUBLIC MEETING About Zoning for Regent Park Phases 4&5

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This is a notice for a public meeting related to zoning amendments for Regent Park Revitalization Phase 4 & 5. The meeting takes place on Dec 4, 2024 at10:00am in Community Meeting 1, at Toronto City Hall. The video features Walied Khogali Ali,  a RPNA member who advocates for a 50/50 balance between the construction of market and affordable housing units in Regent Park. if you wish to address this meeting please register by email to teycc@toronto.ca or by phone at 416-392-7033.
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Isabella Gamk: A Legacy of Resilience, Activism, and Social Justice for Toronto's Most Vulnerable.

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Her story embodies courage and a relentless commitment to justice amid Toronto's housing crisis. Isabella Gamk's journey is a profound testament to resilience, courage, and unwavering advocacy, particularly within Toronto's Downtown East and the vibrant Regent Park community. Beginning her transition at age 56, Isabella has not only embraced her identity as a transgender woman but has also become a powerful advocate for marginalized voices. As the founder of POOF (Protecting ODSP OW Funding), she has dedicated her life to fighting against poverty and homelessness, emphasizing the critical importance of social justice and support for those in need. Her activism is rooted in her personal experiences as a positive HIV survivor, navigating systemic barriers while striving for a better life for herself and others. Isabella's work with POOF has highlighted the challenges faced by those reliant on the Ontario Disability Support Program and Ontario Works, drawing attention to
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Councillor Chris Moise's October 8 2024 TOWNHALL MEETING

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 At a recent meeting, Councillor Chris Moise from Toronto Centre, Ward 13, led a discussion focused on redevelopment efforts and urban maintenance in the downtown core. Councillor Moise and community advocates confronted the city’s escalating affordable housing crisis, specifically centred on a contested property at 214 to 230 Sherbourne Street. Long regarded as a potential site for social housing, this property has sparked debate between those who want it preserved for affordable housing and a private developer with plans to construct luxury condominiums. The meeting highlighted fundamental tensions between public responsibility and private development interests, as well as the urgent need for the city to prioritize affordable housing over high-end projects. Alongside the Sherbourne Street issue, the council addressed concerns about community safety, noting an increase in crime, including drug-related activities affecting local neighbourhoods. City officials highlighted the need for m
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