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On February 13, 2025, members of the Regent Park Social Development Plan (SDP) gathered for a crucial planning meeting to discuss key funding priorities and proposals for the upcoming year. The Planning Committee of the SDP has the pivotal role in coordinating strategic direction, action priorities, and fostering alignment among SDP organizations. Acting as the central conduit for stakeholder and resident engagement, the committee continues to strengthen Regent Park’s collaborative network. The deferral of funding decisions highlights ongoing financial challenges and the need for creative solutions to sustain community-led initiatives. The next meeting is expected to revisit these proposals with the hope of reaching a collective agreement on budget allocations. As Regent Park’s community members navigate these decisions, the broader question remains: how can grassroots efforts continue to thrive in the face of financial uncertainty?

Toronto City Council has approved the 2025 budget in a 19-5 vote, passing an $18.8 billion operating plan with a 6.9% property tax increase. While the budget expands investments in transit, housing, and emergency services, a significant funding boost to Toronto Police has sparked debate. Mayor Olivia Chow and Budget Chief Shelley Carroll defended the budget, calling it a “responsible and forward-looking plan.” “We are investing in what matters most: building homes faster, feeding more kids, and keeping Toronto moving,” Chow stated. For Regent Park and the downtown east, the budget carries major implications. It freezes TTC fares while adding 500,000 service hours, expands school food programs, and waives development fees to accelerate affordable housing. However, the decision to allocate more resources to Toronto Police over social services drew criticism from some councillors and residents. Protesters interrupted the meeting, voicing concerns over the prioritization of policing over c...

This February, TTC employees hosted a powerful Black History Month celebration, recognizing the history, culture, and contributions of Black Canadians. The event featured an African ancestral acknowledgment, captivating poetry by J. Nichole Noel, a speech by ATU 113 President Marvin Alfred, and dynamic performances, including a drumming procession,  a solo performance of Lift Every Voice the “black National Anthem,” and more by the T7 Brass Circle. One of the event’s highlights for RPTV was the recognition of Adonis Huggins, Executive Director of FOCUS Media Arts Centre, for his work empowering Regent Park youth through media and storytelling. To celebrate his impact, AstroSankofa created a striking mural at Sherbourne Station and painted his image on a TTC bus. Depicted in traditional African attire with a futuristic cyborg eye, the artwork symbolizes the fusion of heritage and innovation, reinforcing that Black Canadians are not only part of history but the future as well....

Shinji Yamaguchi, owner of Gushi, reflects on community transformation and the impact of local redevelopment. Shinji Yamaguchi, the owner of Gushi Japanese Street Food, spoke about the evolving dynamics of his neighborhood since opening his business in 2019. He observed a significant change, particularly after the area's development and demolition of older buildings. One notable aspect was the constant presence of ambulances near Anniversary Park, a common sight as local residents faced health and social challenges. Yamaguchi described the park as a space attracting problematic behavior, with people frequently drinking and leaving trash behind, making it less welcoming. However, he remains hopeful about future improvements as redevelopment plans are expected to brighten the park and surrounding areas. Despite the ongoing issues, Yamaguchi appreciates the neighborhood's growing sense of community and mutual support, which he believes is gradually improving the environment.

Regent Park entrepreneur Rashmi Shrestha has turned her passion for the food industry into a thriving business despite economic challenges. Having worked in the food sector for over 15 years, including a managerial role at Whole Foods, she decided to establish her own Asian fusion restaurant, Bowl and Snacks. Her menu features a diverse range of dishes, from sushi to Nepalese, Indian, and Indonesian cuisine, reflecting both her culinary expertise and heritage. Rashmi, a Nepalese immigrant who moved to Canada in 2008, has called Regent Park home for over 16 years. She praises the community's support, crediting locals for helping her business stay afloat. However, she acknowledges the difficulties of running a small restaurant in a neighborhood facing economic struggles, homelessness, and transient customers. Despite these obstacles, Rashmi remains optimistic about the future. To stay competitive, she plans to expand her digital marketing efforts, recognizing that social media outr...

Regent Park entrepreneur Rashmi Shrestha has turned her passion for the food industry into a thriving business despite economic challenges. Having worked in the food sector for over 15 years, including a managerial role at Whole Foods, she decided to establish her own Asian fusion restaurant, Bowl and Snacks. Her menu features a diverse range of dishes, from sushi to Nepalese, Indian, and Indonesian cuisine, reflecting both her culinary expertise and heritage. Rashmi, a Nepalese immigrant who moved to Canada in 2008, has called Regent Park home for over 16 years. She praises the community's support, crediting locals for helping her business stay afloat. However, she acknowledges the difficulties of running a small restaurant in a neighborhood facing economic struggles, homelessness, and transient customers. Despite these obstacles, Rashmi remains optimistic about the future. To stay competitive, she plans to expand her digital marketing efforts, recognizing that social media outr...