Isaac Devins Park opens with festivities: a new community hub in Sheppard and Weston

BY: RAHUL BIALA

Isaac Devins Park celebrated its grand opening on September 15 with a vibrant community event, marking a significant milestone for residents of Sheppard and Weston. The launch, led by Councillor Anthony Peruzza, featured a lively ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the creation of a new community space. Families, friends, and community members gathered to enjoy a day filled with entertainment, light refreshments, and an array of kids' activities, which brought smiles to all ages and created a festive atmosphere.

Located at 55 Isaac Devins Boulevard, the park is the result of a residential development project aimed at creating a welcoming green space for everyone in the area. The new park offers a range of features, including a playground for children, fitness equipment for outdoor workouts, and scenic pathways ideal for leisurely strolls. Its design reflects extensive community engagement and dialogue, ensuring that it meets the needs and preferences of local residents.

Construction of the park began in the spring of 2024 and was initially expected to take around two months. The project team and local representatives worked closely with community members, inviting them to meetings to review the park’s design and amenities and discuss any concerns or suggestions. The collaborative approach was crucial in shaping the park into a kid-friendly, nature-filled space perfect for both relaxation and recreation.

At the opening, Councillor Peruzza expressed his excitement for the park's future, stating that it will "deliver improvements to the neighborhood" and become a cherished gathering spot for the community. The event's success and the park's warm welcome show how important it is to have green spaces that meet different needs and bring people together.

Toronto Nature Stewards are cleaning up invasives in Edgeley Park!

BY: ayesha khan

Between the shrubs of local parks are hidden histories of plant migration. Torontonians can count ourselves fortunate; we are a city that cultivates and cares for green spaces, but many residents are unaware that as far as local flora and fauna are concerned, not all plants are created equal. 

Throughout history, humans have brought plants across borders for various reasons. Sometimes, it's because they make great decorations. Sometimes, it's because they serve a purpose, whether for eating, medicinal use, or making clothing or equipment. But sometimes, foreign species take root too deeply in Canadian soil, and native species cannot compete. 

While a voracious plant species may not seem like a problem, it is when local birds and insects cannot eat it, or at least cannot be well-fed by it, as with Edgeley Park. A crop of European buckthorn has smothered local plants, and though it may make a pleasant site, the berries offer little nutrition for local birds compared to local species. This is at the core of the mandate for the Toronto Nature Stewards, a mainly volunteer-led organization that works closely with the City of Toronto to help manage populations of invasive plant species and encourage local species to thrive. 

The Toronto Nature Stewards (TNS) are working to create a group of local stewards to regularly care for Edgeley Park with weekly (or as often as possible) maintenance. Stewardship makes plant and human communities healthier by bringing locals into harmony with their natural environments. By joining efforts with neighbours to cultivate a sense of responsibility for caring for nature, we give space for nature to care for us. We feel better mentally and less physically isolated. 

On September 14, a group of volunteers collected three bags of buckthorn branches, removing the berried portions and returning them as compost. 

"Stewardship is all about making our communities healthier and more resilient. When we come together to help our local plants and wildlife, we also build stronger relationships with each other," said Victoria Bao Wang, one of three TNS staff who works as coordinator for these efforts.

While maintenance is a crucial part of TNS's work, they also espouse another important goal: education. After the trimming and composting were complete, Luke, a TNS team member, took volunteers on a native species tour of the park, where species such as Canadian Goldenrod, native sunflowers, and more were identified. 

Despite warmer-than-usual temperatures, the team remained enthusiastic and, upon culminating, was proud of what they had accomplished. 

"Tending to the lands means we're caring for ourselves, too." shared Victoria. "It's a cultivation of hope." 

If you're interested in joining the local stewardship effort to help clean up Edgeley Park, please get in touch with coordinator@torontonaturestewards.org

Bill 210: Making a difference in illegal handgun violence

BY: Sophia Autor

In collaboration between North York’s Tom Rakocevic, Krystyn Wong-Tam, Doly Begum, and Peter Tabuns, Bill 210, which is waiting for a second round to be passed, could assist in preventing gun smuggling from the United States to Canada through legal action against gun manufacturers. Originally inspired by investigations against gun manufacturers in the United States, the Bill states that Canada should follow suit, putting pressure on the Executive Council to pursue an active role against gun smuggling. Bill 210 lays out a framework for Executive Council members in the investigation, research, and legal action against gun smuggling in Ontario. This bill prioritizes the importance of consulting with communities affected by illegal handguns and experts towards the development of an illegal handgun litigation plan. 

This litigation plan aims to investigate how illegal handguns enter and are sold in Ontario. It will focus on identifying these illegal entries and assessing the grounds for taking legal action against U.S. handgun manufacturers. The plan will also evaluate the potential impact of such legal action, whether it could pressure the gun manufacturing industry to make changes that would enhance safety and protection for Ontarians. This Bill is important for Humber River-Black Creek, considering the unprecedented shooting that led to a serious injury near Chalkfarm Drive and Jane Street on September 13, 2024 and an exchange of gunfire the day after on Jane Street and Wilson Avenue. Here, Bill 210 has the potential to make a positive impact in the decrease of gun related violence in our community.

Welcoming back a season of life-long learning

BY: SIYA SHARMA

As chillier winds breeze their way in and the leaves once again begin to turn, we welcome another fall season back to our neighbourhood. With this gentle shift comes plenty of new opportunities and beginnings, including the ever-awaited back-to-school season! Yes, the time has come for stacks of paper and exciting transitions. Let’s take a look at the latest news from our community to learn about what we can look forward to this back-to-school season!

This summer saw some great changes in our schools. A number of public schools in the area underwent, or are wrapping up, renovation and repair projects to improve student experience. Those at Yorkwoods, Gosford, Driftwood, Lamberton, and Gulfstream P.S. will be met with newly-renovated playgrounds. Students at many other schools, including Brookview M.S., Firgrove P.S., Daystrom P.S., and Elia M.S., will be happy to see some new expansions to their outdoor spaces.

Of course, there is still much on the way this year – beginning with the inauguration of a brand new arts program at Westview Centennial S.S. this September! The program, entitled “ArtSpeaks,” includes four years of specialized courses and integrated arts studies. ArtSpeaks embraces art as a form of expression with transformative power, viewing it through a dedicated social justice lens. Beginning in November 2024, the program will be accepting applications for entry at the grade 9 and grade 10 level, with the school hosting an open house for the program on November 12th.

 There is something special about the back-to-school season. It brings about an opportunity to reset, allowing us all to reflect on our growth as learners, friends, family – and, as a community. Many of the exciting things that we have to look forward to this season are the fruits of a community’s labour and love. From community representatives to local organizations, everyone is gearing up to support the community in this transition. Let us all prepare to welcome the school year, and to continue this precious cycle of community, as a new adventure begins.

Children and Seniors can now apply for Canada Dental Care Plan

BY: Matias de Dovitiis

The new Canada Dental Care Plan is the biggest change to our public health care system in a generation. So far, the program has been a great success. The program came about in a deal between the NDP and the Liberal government and over 2 million people have now registered across the country, with close to half a million people already receiving dental care. Importantly, many dental care providers have signed up to the program in the area and you can start to receive care in a very short time. 

For those readers that are not familiar with the program, as part of the agreement to support the Liberal government in Ottawa, the NDP asked for the creation of a new dental care program about 2 years ago. The government agreed and there has been work since to roll out the program across the country. Children were made eligible first and now seniors, but starting next year, all Canadians that qualify for the income threshold will be able to apply. The process to apply is easy and takes less than 5 minutes online if you have all your documents. You can also apply by phone. It takes about 3 months for you to receive your processed application and member card. 

The service covers preventative care, like cleaning, x-rays and so on, but also basic services like permanent fillings and root canals. It also covers major services such as dentures and oral surgery when required. There may be fees included and co-payments so be sure to check the small print on the services that you need. 

How to qualify:

You must have no access to dental insurance
You must have an adjusted net income of less than $90,000 (net income for you and your spouse or common law combined)
Your must be a Canadian for tax purposes
You completed your taxes for the previous year (2023)

If you have not signed up it’s easy. Do it online: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/qualify.html

Or over the phone: 1-833-537-4342 

What you will need to apply:

Social Insurance Number
Date of birth
Full name
Home and mailing address
You and your spouse or common-law (only if it applies) must have complete your tax return for 2023 and have received your Notice of Assessment.

YMCA 5K Run: run to help send kids to camp

BY: iSABELLA DEARLOVE

On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Downsview Park hosted the first-ever YMCA Charity 5K Run, where every step helps send children to camp. This fun and inclusive event welcomed people and families of all ages and fitness levels to support YMCA Camps, with a goal of raising $100,000 to send 500 children to camp. While this may seem ambitious, they raised nearly $70,000, an incredible turnout!

This exciting event was not just about fitness; it was about creating opportunities for children who might not otherwise have the chance to attend camp due to financial difficulties. The funds raised will provide children ages 4 to 15 access to enriching camps, offering outdoor experiences that nurture their growth, development, and future success. “Camp has always been a place to build friendships, create lifelong skills, and make cherished memories,” says Lesley Davidson, President & CEO of YMCA of Greater Toronto. “With the YMCA Charity 5K, we’re excited to bring the community together and give kids access to these life-changing opportunities.” 

Participants received an exclusive souvenir running hat, finisher medal, and access to a lively post-run celebration. The best part? The entry fee covered everything, including taxes and processing fees. 

Shuttle buses were available from seven YMCA locations across the Greater Toronto Area, with tickets available for purchase during registration. There were tons of exciting prizes and various opportunities to fundraise for this worthy cause. 

For more information and to register for future events, visit the YMCA of Greater Toronto website: [YMCA Charity 5K] (https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85913/ymca-charity-5k).

North York harvest food bank advocates for change as demand rises

BY: CHARLIE FAIRBANK

The cost of living crisis is evident in the sharp rise of people using food banks, including the North York Harvest Food Bank. Demand has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, leaving many food banks struggling. Chiara Padovani, Senior Manager of Communications and Advocacy, noted, “We’re at a tipping point which is not sustainable. We need to be committed to solving the root causes that lead to poverty.”

High living costs often force people to cut their food budgets, as rent must be paid in full each month. Increasingly, fully or part-time employed individuals are using food banks, highlighting that wages have not kept up with the cost of living. One-quarter of those using food banks are children.

North York Harvest Food Bank advocates for long-term solutions, including rent control for buildings constructed after 2018 and vacancy control to prevent landlords from significantly raising rent for new tenants. They also suggest raising the rates of Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program, which have been frozen since 2018 and have not kept up with inflation. These changes would require provincial legislation.

“North York Harvest Food Bank is working very hard to keep up with demand and thanks our volunteers, donors, supporters, and community members,” said Padovani. “We also encourage those who work with us to get involved in advocacy that addresses the root causes of food insecurity.”

North York Harvest Food Bank also releases Who’s Hungry Reports in collaboration with the Daily Bread Food Bank detailing Toronto’s food security situation each year. Readers can search their website https://northyorkharvest.com to learn more, donate and get involved.

DONATE SCHOOL SUPPLIES & HELP KIDS START THE SCHOOL YEAR OFF RIGHT!

BY: YORKGATE MALL

Yorkgate Mall in partnership with The Downsview Advocate, has officially launched its 2nd Annual Countdown to Class! School Supplies Drive in support of The Children’s Breakfast Clubs.

Through September 13th, visitors to Yorkgate Mall are asked to help fill the mini-School Bus donation box located near BMO with much-needed school supplies.  

For over 40 years, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs has provided healthy meals and educational, cultural, and recreational activities to children and youth across Southern Ontario. They work with community partners to organize nutritious, balanced, and culturally reflective breakfast programs, serving over 5,000 meals per week in more than 30 communities across Southern Ontario. In addition, they offer a variety of programs and services designed to empower young minds and affect positive change in our communities.

“With support from our shoppers, our retailers, and local agencies, this program will help make a difference in the lives of thousands of children,” says Chris Couch, Marketing Associate Yorkgate Mall.  “As the need in our community continues to grow, we are asking for the public’s help with this year’s School Supply Drive. Our goal is to help the needy students in our community get off to a great start this back-to-school season”. 

The most needed supplies for these students include pens, pencils, pencil case, markers, crayons, rulers, notebooks, lunch kits, refillable water bottles, binders (3 inch), scientific calculators, highlighters, USB sticks, and combination locks. The Children’s Breakfast Club will distribute the donations collected throughout the fundraising drive.  A full list of items can be found at yorkgatemall.com.

Yorkgate Mall, located at Jane and Finch in Toronto, Ontario, offers over 60 stores and services under one roof including No Frills, LCBO, IDA Drug Mart, Dollarama, and BMO. 

For further information, please contact:

Chris Couch, Marketing Associate

Yorkgate Mall

647-466-4933                      

ccouch@smartcentres.com

DONATE SCHOOL SUPPLIES & HELP KIDS START THE SCHOOL YEAR OFF RIGHT!

BY: YORKGATE MALL

Yorkgate Mall in partnership with The Downsview Advocate, has officially launched its 2nd Annual Countdown to Class! School Supplies Drive in support of The Children’s Breakfast Clubs. Through September 13th, visitors to Yorkgate Mall are asked to help fill the yellow School Bus donation box located near BMO with much-needed school supplies.

For over 40 years, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs has provided healthy meals and educational, cultural and recreational activities to children and youth across Southern Ontario.

They work with community partners to organize nutritious, balanced and culturally reflective breakfast programs, serving over 5,000 meals per week in more than 30 communities across Southern Ontario. In addition, they offer a variety of programs and services designed to empower young minds and affect positive change in our communities.

“As the need in our community continues to grow, we’re asking for the public’s help. During tough economic times, it can be difficult, but school supplies are an integral part of a students’ success. Our goal is to help children in our community get off to a great start this back-to- school season”, says Chris Couch, Marketing Associate at Yorkgate Mall.

The most needed supplies for these students include pens, pencils, pencil case, markers, crayons, rulers, notebooks, lunch kits, refillable water bottles, binders (3 inch), scientific calculators, highlighters, USB sticks, and combination locks. The Children’s Breakfast Club will distribute the donations collected throughout the fundraising drive. A full list of items can be found at yorkgatemall.com.

Yorkgate Mall, located at Jane and Finch in Toronto, Ontario, offers over 60 stores andservices under one roof including No Frills, LCBO, IDA Drug Mart, Dollarama, and BMO.

In solidarity with international students: demanding fairness in Canada’s labour policies

BY: PAULYN MANDAP

Did you know that Canada’s labour policies are a mirror reflecting its dark past? In the same way that the Temporary Foreign Workers Program and the Domestic Scheme took advantage of racialized communities, today’s international students are being held to a system designed to maintain inequality. It’s a modern-day story of discrimination and exploitation.

During the pandemic, Canada saw a high rate of entry of international students, to fill in gaps in the labour force that domestic students left behind. With no caps on their working hours, these students became essential contributors to our economy, often taking on low-wage positions to cover their steep tuition fees and living expenses.

Many international students come from developing countries, drawn to Canada’s promises of a better future. They juggle their academic studies and the heavy burden of familial responsibilities, high-tuition debt, rent, and living expenses. So, for Immigration Minister Marc Miller to say, ‘the purpose of the international student program is to study and not work’ completely ignores the harsh realities that the average international student has to overcome daily. The truth is, that many of these students are barely scraping by, forced to turn to food banks to make ends meet, struggling to afford basic necessities while striving for a better future. “They are limiting us to 20 hours per week, while the economy continues to skyrocket. It’s almost impossible to pay for rent and groceries”, an international student from York University shares.

By limiting international students to low-wage jobs, Canada is not just encouraging a cycle of exploitation; it’s actively restricting their path to permanent residency. It’s a modern-day version of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, where Canada benefits from charging international students with sky-high tuition fees, pushes students into unfulfilling jobs, and ultimately increases the likelihood of them returning to their home countries after completing their degrees.

It's time for a change. That’s why I’m calling on you, the reader, to take action. Write to your local MP, sign petitions, join advocacy groups – do whatever it takes to demand the lifting of the working hours cap!