We are concerned that the provincial closure of existing harm reduction services will have significant consequences — such as more overdose deaths, more strain on police, fire and paramedics, more crowded emergency rooms, and more public drug consumption.
What we need in Toronto is a comprehensive approach that includes all the services people need — supportive housing, treatment services, mental health services, primary care, harm reduction and more.
Last year alone, there were 524 opioid toxicity deaths in Toronto. There is no question that more provincial funding for treatment services and supportive housing is necessary and welcome. We urgently need more provincial support to help people access treatment, housing and social services.
However, any change to evidence-based harm reduction programs should be made in consultation with Toronto Public Health.
We are concerned that the provincial closure of existing harm reduction services will have significant consequences — such as more overdose deaths, more strain on police, fire and paramedics, more crowded emergency rooms, and more public drug consumption.
What we need in Toronto is a comprehensive approach that includes all the services people need — supportive housing, treatment services, mental health services, primary care, harm reduction and more.
We are awaiting more details from the province to better understand the impact of today’s announcement.
Map of Supervised Consumption Sites across Toronto Centre:
After March 31, 2025, sites will have to be at least 200 metres from a school or child-care centre.
Note: Moss Park CTS is closing due to an approved development and may be unable to relocate due to the Province's new restriction on new federal exemption applications.
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!
Join the Friends of Old City Hall for a screening of A Thing of Beauty: The Early Years of Toronto's Old City Hall at City Hall, Council Chambers, on July 15 and 6:30pm. Please click here to register!
Enjoy free popcorn & free ice cream and a screening of Zootopia 2, courtesy of TCEU Local 416, plus drinks and entertainment from our office. It's a night out for the whole family — and it won't cost you a thing. We’ll even be giving away kids' CNE passes for kids under the age of 13!