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
Help Shape the Future of Accessible Transit in Toronto! The TTC is looking for new members to join its Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit (ACAT). This group plays a central role in advising the TTC Board and staff, ensuring our transit services are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all. Apply now before the August 12 deadline!
At our meeting on May 21 and 22, City Council dedicated a significant amount of time to address the Ombudsman Report on the City’s response to a vital service outage in a multi-tenant home, as well as the Council-directed proposed bylaw to protect social infrastructure. Amidst thoughtful discussion and lively debate, I also released section 37 funds to advance projects from the 2024 Participatory Budgeting cycle.
Happy Pride Month! June is both a month of celebration and reflection on the progress the 2SLGBTQ+ community has made. With choppy international waters causing fear and uncertainty both south of the border and at home, I know many in our community are feeling a lot of anxiety. So if you need it, please make space for yourself this month.
There is a lot to do in the City this summer, and I encourage you to experience everything you can. For Pride events in June, please visit my online calendar to see what is happening here in Toronto Centre. If you are looking to enjoy an outdoor meal or drink, I have a list of CafeTO, sidewalk cafe and private patios for you to browse. Registration for summer recreation is also opening next week, including for swimming classes, art workshops and sports programs.
