Community News Update - December 14, 2022

Dear Community,

A massive thank you is in order for the many generous residents of our community here in Toronto-St. Paul's. Thanks to you, we were able to donate two truckloads of groceries and many hundreds of dollars in cash donations to The Beeton Cupboard Food Bank - I'm still in awe!

Thanks are in order not only for individuals, but for small businesses like Courage Cookies, owned by my wonderful constituents Chelsea and Ian (and their adorable dogs, Elton and Jager), who donated a whopping $2000 to our Holiday Food Drive! If you're in need of holiday cookies this season - and really, who isn't - be sure to check them out for some delicious offerings!

Every donation, big or small, matters so much for folks in need of a little helping hand. As I've said time and time again, there is no shame in accessing supports that we all deserve! Thank you to Jenni and all the wonderful volunteers from St. Michael & All Angels for this profound act of service, and thank you to the many other tireless advocates across the city who are working to address the systemic issue of food insecurity.

This need not be a one-time thing, as food banks like The Beeton Cupboard continue to need donations throughout the year. If you have non-perishable food items to share, menstrual or hygiene products, search out a food bank in your community to make a donation. Monetary donations in someone's name also make for a fantastic holiday gift!

As I've spoken about in past newsletters, 1366 Yonge Street, which currently houses Balmoral Medical Arts Facility in addition to a handful of other thriving businesses, has been slated for demolition to accommodate yet another luxury condo.

I remain steadfast in my commitment to needed development, particularly along bustling transit corridors, but it must be development that meets actual community needs and doesn't just line developer's pockets.

Inspired by the tireless advocacy of our community, I've written a letter to Minister of Health Sylvia Jones, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark, and Premier Doug Ford demanding a response and laying bare the real needs of local residents.

I hope you'll join me and many other community activists in demanding justice for the folks who utilize 1366 Yonge Street and all Ontarians who deserve more than luxury they can't afford and healthcare they can't access!

If you have your own story of support you'd like to voice about 1366 Yonge Street, please reply to this email.

My friends at The Brentwood Towers Tenants' Association shared this petition with me as they fight against shameful AGIs. Last year, I called for a ban of AGIs, and I will continue to fight to ensure the protections of renters across Ontario!

Allies in the fight for affordable housing can consider sharing their petition on social media and signing my petition here.

On Monday, we wrapped up 3-D World, the youth mentorship program I co-created with FYI and Art Starts. It was wonderful chatting with the participants about their designs, and I was honoured to award each of them with a certificate celebrating their achievement. Well done, youth!

On Tuesday, along with MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam and MPP Lise Vaugeois, I met with the folks from Transforming Style, a non-profit organization offering cost-free styling, beauty, and wellness services to members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Visit their website to learn how to donate, sponsor, or utilize their services!

You know I had to visit the Yonge & St. Clair Gingerbread Festival - what a delightful treat!

When doing your holiday shopping, don't forget about gift cards to local businesses like the scrumptious Les Moulins La Fayette!

Sunday, December 18, the Toronto Community Bikeways Coalition returns with its 3rd Annual Cycling Good Cheer event on Yonge Street - look out for Santa!

In Solidarity, 

Jill Andrew
Toronto-St. Paul's