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  For more than three decades, Focus Media Arts Centre, originally known as the Regent Park Youth Media Arts Centre, has been an integral part of the Regent Park community. Throughout its history, Focus has documented the ongoing transformation of the area, capturing the stories and voices that shape its identity. Dimitrije Martinovic – Local Journalism Initiative Beyond its role as a chronicler of Regent Park’s evolution, Focus Media Arts Centre has also been a training ground for aspiring media professionals. Offering workshops in photography, video production, radio broadcasting, and civic journalism, Focus has become a launching pad for young people eager to explore careers in media. With a commitment to hands-on learning, the centre provides a space where creativity and technical skills come together. Today, many alumni credit Focus with shaping their career trajectories. From co-op students to college interns, those who passed through Focus say their experience...

At the Daniels Spectrum in Regent Park, residents and advocates came together for an event titled "Low Income Neighbourhoods Fighting Back." Organized by Downtown Toronto community groups, the discussion focused on the pressing challenges of gentrification and housing justice in Toronto's low-income neighborhoods, which are increasingly threatened by aggressive buyouts from large developers. Speakers from 230 Fightback, Regent Park Neighbourhood Association, No Demovictions Coalition, the Toronto Under-housed and Homeless Union (TUHU), and other organizations shared their stories of resilience and advocacy. They addressed the impacts of demovictions, skyrocketing rents, and the displacement of vulnerable communities, emphasizing their collective fight against policies that prioritize profit over people. The speakers called for stronger tenant protections, affordable housing options, and immediate government action to curb the gentrification threatening Downtown East neigh...

 RPTV explores the City’s 10-Year Reconciliation Plan and its support for Indigenous communities. The City of Toronto is taking bold steps to advance reconciliation through its 10-year Reconciliation Action Plan, which was launched in 2022. This plan outlines 28 crucial actions aimed at addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities while promoting truth, justice, and economic empowerment. Developed in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, the plan is designed to evolve and adapt based on the needs and priorities of Toronto’s Indigenous Peoples. At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to transparency and inclusivity, as well as restoring trust between the city and Indigenous residents. Key areas of focus include economic development, increasing civic engagement, and supporting Indigenous self-determination. The plan also highlights the city’s dedication to ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and integrated into decision-ma...

 With the Ontario government's looming plan to shut down five supervised drug consumption sites in Toronto, communities in the Downtown East gathered on August 31st for International Overdose Awareness Day, underscoring the vital role these sites play in saving lives. RPTV’s Gabriel Meissner covered three powerful events where harm reduction advocates and community members came together to honor those lost and demand action. The 519, Street Health, and partner organizations hosted the 'Together We Can End Overdose' event at Barbara Hall Park, which featured sacred fire, Indigenous drumming, powerful speakers, and a community BBQ. The event highlighted the importance of harm reduction strategies, including naloxone training, to empower community members to respond effectively to overdoses and save lives. At the Moss Park CTS (Consumption and Treatment Services), located under the South Riverdale Community Health Centre on Sherbourne Street, participants gathered for similar ...

Sunday in the Park has long been a cornerstone of social cohesion and inclusion in Regent Park, and this year’s festival was no exception. In a neighbourhood experiencing significant change, the event continues to foster connections, promote unity, and provide a space for residents to come together.    This year’s festival faced significant financial challenges. In fact leading up to the event, questions were raised whether this year's festival should be cancelled as funding from the City of Toronto only amounted to $1500, significantly down from previous years. However in a remarkable show of community spirit, residents leaders rallied to raise funds, with key donations coming at the last minute to ensure the festival could proceed. TD Canada Trust contributed $2,500, the Daniels Corporation donated $1,500, and Scotiabank contributed $1,500. Thats not all, both Tridel and YSM each donated $1000. The Regent Park Neighbourhood Association (RPNA), donated $750 and NIP, Metrol...

 In an effort to better respond to TCHC residents request for barrier free community spaces, TCHC has created a program called, "Our Spaces, Your Ideas. The program provides opportunities for residents to be able to book spaces and  host private and public events in specific TCHC buildings. One of the buildings in Regent Park that are available for residents to book is 150 River Street.  The building features attractive amenities such as a kitchen and a multi-purpose community room that can accommodate maximum 192 people. The TCHC's  "Our Spaces, Your Ideas." is more than just a way to book a room; it’s an invitation to transform community spaces into vibrant hubs of activity. Whether you’re planning a lively birthday bash, a vital community meeting, or a weekly workshop, TCHC tenants now have the freedom to bring their visions to life within the very heart of their communities. In Regent Park, a community rich in diversity and history, the impact is especially profo...

 By Fred Alvarado Fred is a community journalist with FOCUS MEDIA ARTS CENTRE On July 27, 2024, the Neighbourhood Information Post hosted the Moss Park Summer Festival, a vibrant community event held at the green space at the intersection of Queen St East and Ontario St. The festival, themed "I Love Moss Park," aimed to strengthen social ties and foster mutual support among residents. This free event featured food, a DJ, an ice cream truck, a bouncy castle, games, face painting, and a raffle, creating a lively atmosphere for all attendees. The festival brought together residents and a range of service providers, including MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, City Councilor for Ward 13 Chris Moise, representatives from Toronto Community Housing, 51 Division Neighborhood Community Officers, Toronto Fire, and various community organizations such as Street Haven, Street Health, and Building Roots. These organizations provided valuable resources and information to help residents navigate their d...

In the heart of Moss Park, Toronto, Carol Mark stands as a beacon of community spirit and artistic innovation. As the curator and owner of the Amazing Boss Park Collective and 183 Gallery, Carol has dedicated over 20 years to fostering an inclusive art space that not only showcases diverse talents but also actively contributes to grassroots organizations. "My journey began with the realization that there was a void in the community—people needed a platform to exhibit their art," Carol shares. Unlike conventional galleries, 183 Gallery operates on a unique model where proceeds from sales are donated back to the community, supporting minority artists and initiatives like the first hospice at Wounded Knee, South Dakota. Carol's deep-rooted connection to the city is evident. Growing up near the vibrant Girard Street village, she was inspired by its artistic energy. "Moss Park reminds me of those days—full of history and potential," she says. Her gallery not only hos...

The Regent Park Social Development Plan, commonly referred to as the SDP,is a key framework guiding the neighborhood's well-being through a focus on social inclusion and cohesion. The current SDP structure revolves around four working groups related to community identified needs around employment, safety, community building and communication. The working groups generally meet monthly to plan and implement action plans and activities. The working groups are supported by a planning committee that meets weekly and various other sub-committees. The planning committee and work groups all report to a stakeholders table that meets quarterly. Participation on the work groups, planning committee, sub-committees and the stakeholders table are open to everyone, including: TCHC Residents Market Residents City of Toronto Staff Representatives from TCHC  Daniels and Tridel Staff members from all agencies and organizations operating in Regent Park Several major accomplishments of the SDP include:...

Louis March, a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for ending gun violence, has passed away at the age of 68. A long-time Scarborough resident, March died on July 20, 2024, following a medical emergency. March, who founded the Zero Gun Violence Movement in 2013, dedicated himself to confronting the gun violence crisis in Toronto and beyond. What began as a 90-day campaign quickly evolved into a long-term initiative, working with over 40 community organizations to address the root causes of violence. His efforts aimed to build safer and healthier communities, focusing on education, advocacy, and engagement. For over three decades, March was a powerful voice for community empowerment, particularly for Black and racialized youth, especially in Regent Park and surrounding areas. He served on several boards, including Young and Potential Fathers and the African Canadian Heritage Association, and worked directly with schools to advocate for students' experiences. In Reg...