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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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