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Showing posts from September, 2026

EED Update and Communication Strategy Highlight SDP Planning Committee Meeting

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The Regent Park Social Development Plan (SDP) Network’s March 19, 2026 Planning Committee meeting opened with an update from Elena Tagizadeh, Co-chair of the Employment and Economic Development (EED) Working Group, who introduced the Workforce Integration Project. The initiative is designed to connect Regent Park residents with local job opportunities by addressing systemic barriers to employment. Through partnerships with employers and community agencies, the project aims to create a more inclusive and accessible employment system. Following the presentation, committee members raised questions about the initiative’s effectiveness and sustainability. Concerns centred on the need for measurable outcomes and greater transparency. One member called for clearer data on how many residents have secured employment through the program, as well as more detailed information on funding sources to ensure the project’s long-term viability. The discussion then led to a proposal from Deany Peters to ...

Community Iftar Brings Regent Park Residents Together

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 Residents gathered on Sunday, March 15 at the Daniels Spectrum for a community iftar organized by the Regent Park Neighbourhood Association (RPNA), bringing neighbours together to break the fast during Ramadan while also discussing community issues such as tenant rights. Iftar marks the moment at sundown when Muslims observing Ramadan break their daily fast. According to the RPNA, the event was designed not only as a cultural and religious gathering but also as an opportunity for residents to connect with one another and learn more about local advocacy efforts. The event included a shared meal, designated rooms for prayer, and youth activities aimed at engaging younger attendees. Participants were invited to write reflections about Ramadan on a communal wall, while a photo wall with a dedicated photographer allowed residents to capture moments from the evening. RPNA co-chair Walied Khogali Ali also led a short quiz based on themes from his opening remarks, testing how closely yout...

Students and Advocates Protest OSAP Changes at Queen’s Park

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 On March 24, 2026, students and community members gathered at Queen’s Park to protest major changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program announced by the government of Doug Ford. OSAP is a financial aid program that helps current and incoming post-secondary students pay for college or university. Funding typically comes in two forms: grants, which students do not have to repay, and loans, which are paid back after graduation. While the program is administered by the provincial government, funding comes from both the Ontario and federal governments. Beginning in fall 2026, the provincial government plans to significantly restructure the program. Under the new system, grants will be capped at 25 percent of the total financial aid a student receives, while loans will make up at least 75 percent. Previously, some students were eligible to receive up to 85 percent of their assistance as non-repayable grants. Government officials say the changes are intended to make the program mor...