Over the course of the summer we have seen encampments pop up in parks across Toronto Centre. I wanted to provide an update in response to the concerns I have heard and the questions about what can be done to make our parks accessible to everyone.
On June 26, Toronto City Council adopted the City’s updated Interdivisional Protocol for Encampments which affirms a commitment to using a human rights-based approach in our encampment response and outlines the process for removing encampments. Ultimately, the City aims to establish trust with individuals in encampments, and to connect them to shelter and housing without the need for enforcement. As such, trespass notices will only be issued after people living in encampments have been provided with connections to appropriate supports and indoor space.
A lack of available indoor space is what is currently preventing the City from relocating people in encampments. That’s why I requested that staff prioritize the development of a rapid shelter program that addresses the unique needs of people living in encampments. As a City, this is one option we can explore to expand our shelter supply, but this is not a burden we should have to carry alone. We require support from both the provincial and federal governments to adequately shelter and house our residents, including the many refugee claimants we welcome.
My office is in regular contact with staff in Toronto Shelter and Support Services (TSSS), specifically the Encampments Office. While we cannot direct staff to remove encampments, we do advocate for parks to be kept as clean as possible while encampments remain. My team also works with staff to have encampments relocated away from sensitive areas including playgrounds when necessary. I will continue to support calls to the provincial and federal governments to provide support for new shelter spaces and housing initiatives to alleviate the pressure on our under-resourced system.
It is important for residents to report dangerous activity and materials to the appropriate agency. Emergencies, such as fires, can be reported to 911, while non-emergencies can be directed to the Toronto Police Non-Emergency line at 416-808-2222. You can report discarded sharps to 311 for cleanup. If they remain, my team can escalate the request, but it is important that it goes through 311 so there is a record of the complaint. These 311 requests help my office as we advocate for enhanced service levels in the ward.
The Laneway Projects organization is asking you to identify some laneways in Ward 13 that needs love!
We have come a long way since the summer of 2023 when Allan Gardens was the largest encampment in the city.
I'm proud to once again be coming back to our community for this year's Neighbourhood Town Hall series!
