Black Housing and Homelessness Consultation

During a 3-hour drop-in session, attendees were able to visit various booths hosted by each division. These booths provided insights to residents into current activities and plans related to housing and shelter systems and were used to gather valuable community feedback.

This event was a joint effort between the Confronting Anti-Black Racism (CABR) Unit, which I chair, the Housing Secretariat and Toronto Shelter and Support Services. The formal engagement session features presentations from each division followed by a Q&A session. Four major themes emerged:

  1. Shelter Operation and Design: Many residents voiced a need for shelters that are both functional and culturally sensitive. There was a clear call for shelters that cater specifically to the needs of Black communities, ensuring culturally relevant support and services.
  2. Targeted Supports for Refugee Claimants: Attendees highlighted the necessity for specialized support systems for refugee claimants within the Black community. There is a significant need for targeted assistance to address the unique challenges faced by this group.
  3. Affordable Housing and Eviction Supports: The impact of housing affordability issues on Black communities was emphasized, with many advocating for clear and actionable strategies to address these challenges with keeping people safely housed.
  4. Home Ownership: There was strong support for increased opportunities for Black residents to achieve home ownership. Participants called for strategic initiatives to facilitate the transition from renting to owning homes.

The insights and feedback from this consultation will be critical in shaping several important City strategies and plans:

  • The 10-Year Toronto Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism.
  • The development of a Black Housing Framework, in collaboration with the Housing Secretariat and CABR Unit.
  • The Toronto Shelter Support Services Capital Infrastructure Plan, including the establishment of the City’s first Black shelter and the selection of a Black-led site operator.

This consultation is a vital step in developing responsive City strategies. As we celebrate Emancipation Month, we remain committed to enhancing culturally relevant services, affordable housing access, and addressing systemic issues in our shelter system.

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It has been a tremendously busy summer! Between Pride and FIFA on one end, the final Toronto and East York Community Council and City Council of the term later this month on the other, and the ongoing Church Street Pedestrianization Pilot, my team and I have been working hard to continue delivering results. Despite the stress, despite the heat, and especially despite the province’s ongoing work to make the City of Toronto miserable, for this final proper Councillor Update of the term, I want to provide positive vibes only.

The celebration on Church Street continues! The Church Street Pedestrianization has officially launched, with the Church-Wellesley Village Business Improvement Area (BIA) and my team installed patios and more seating on Church Street post-Pride to make it an even better place to visit. The pedestrianization lasts until August 21, so come on out and experience The Village like never before, enjoy the beautiful weather, and help me advocate for more pedestrianization across the City and to make this pilot permanent!

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