Over the holidays and throughout this month, I have been in contact with City Staff from the Shelter, Support, and Housing Administration Division and have continued to urge them to find permanent housing or create shelter spaces for those living in encampments in Allan Gardens. We find ourselves in the coldest time of the year, and I continue to prioritize outreach to unhoused individuals.
Since the start of my term, the number of encampments has been steadily decreasing. From a total of 39 tents and 30 individuals in the park to currently having 27 tents and 11 individuals. This is very encouraging and we continue to work hard to house people.
The majority of the individuals in Allan Gardens continue to collaborate with City Staff, and many have scheduled unit viewings and moved into permanent housing. There remain 5 individuals in Allan Gardens who have declined all available housing and shelter services. I understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for those experiencing homelessness. Still, I recognize that it is unsafe to stay outside in the cold. Residents in and around Allan Gardens have stated they are feeling increasingly unsafe with the number of encampment structures in Allan Gardens as they also exacerbate the pedestrian safety issues caused by the ongoing construction. In my last update, I stated that public parks cannot address the need for safe, indoor accommodations and I continue to stand by that statement. I hope that individuals who have declined all available services will work together with us toward an appropriate and reasonable solution.
I’d like to commend and thank City Staff for their hard work in outreach and securing housing for all individuals experiencing homelessness and hope that those unhoused will become responsive to their ongoing efforts.
Yours in service,
Chris Moise
City Councillor
Ward 13 - Toronto Centre
November 18 was a day I had anticipated with a heavy heart since Dr. Eileen de Villa first announced her retirement earlier this year. That day, we sat at the table together for the final Board of Health meeting with her as our Medical Officer of Health.
On November 16, I gathered at the Toronto Public Library’s Parliament Street Branch to celebrate the Moss Park Community Cookbook launch. The event brought together residents, community leaders and food lovers to honour the incredible stories and recipes that make Moss Park such a vibrant place. Below, please find my recipe for banana bread with ginger and blueberries!
City Council made progress in addressing the housing crisis at its meeting on November 13 and 14 by implementing a Rental Renovation Licence By-law and expanding incentives for purpose-built rental housing. They also had important conversations about the City’s economy and cultural plan.
