Local Food bank puts Food on the Table in Jane and Finch, Feeds Most Vulnerable During COVID-19

October 19, 2021 Ayesha Khan

Sister V, food bank director, poses with Ayesha Khan of Councillor Perruzza’s office and Terryl Knox, volunteer, outside the food bank’s operation at the Jane-Sheppard library. Photo credit: Matias de Dovitiis

As food insecurity reaches a critical point due to COVID-19, one local food bank in the Jane-Finch area has been working non-stop to provide healthful and consistent food for most vulnerable residents. The Society for the Living Food Bank began in 1988, serving hot lunches to people on Queen St. in Toronto’s downtown area. Since then, they have made connections with North York Harvest Food Bank and Second Harvest, leading to the bustling and thriving food bank operation on the mostly industrial Eddystone Avenue off Jane St. They are one of the few food banks in Toronto’s often food insecure Jane-Finch community.

International Day of the Girl: Because I am a Girl

October 12, 2021 Miwako Chang

Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish with attendees of the 7th Annual DFL Gala Dinner, on October 18, 2019. Photo credit: BK On The Scene

The International Day of the Girl; also known as the International Day of Girls or the International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated every year on October 11. This special day began as part of a campaign, titled “Because I am a Girl”. It was aimed at promoting the rights of young girls in developing countries. It was eventually brought to the attention of the Canadian federal government by Former Canadian Member of Parliament, Rona Ambrose.

Backpack Drive By ANIDA

October 6, 2021 Komal Biala

Members of ANIDA posing with the filled backpacks. Photo credit: ANIDA and team

For 24 years, the All Nations International Development Agency (ANIDA) has been committed to making a difference in the Downsview community, and internationally. ANIDAs’ goal is to empower underprivileged communities by removing obstacles that prevent children from accessing education. ANIDA also provides resources needed for students to have a promising and fulfilling school year.

ACORN: Jane and Finch Housing Crisis

October 1, 2021 Rayvon Johnson

Residents of the Jane and Finch community, along with Acorn members continue to rally together to give out information on unfair increases in rent, and evictions amid a global pandemic. The housing crisis had affected many families, residents and members of the Jane and Finch community, as they were not aware that a sudden increase in rent was about to strike.

The Delta Variant And Returning To Schools

September 28, 2021 Muna Xassan

The Delta Variant is at least twice as contagious as previous strains.

As students go back to school in the fall many are worried about the delta variant, a variant that is twice as contagious as the previous strains. The delta variant is a highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 virus strain and what makes this virus strain more dangerous is how infectious it is and how fast it can spread. Data collected in countries with high case rates show that vaccinated people can carry as much virus in their nose as do unvaccinated people.

Community Coalition Launches Campaign for Community Benefits at Downsview Park

September 24, 2021 Kumsa Baker

TCBN celebrates community benefits on the Eglinton Crosstown LRT project with new construction apprentices, unions and community groups. Photo credit: Toronto Community Benefits Network

Downsview Park is currently in the planning stage for a large mixed-use neighbourhood which will see proposals to develop new housing, retail, commercial, institutional and/or community uses on the site. The combined site is estimated at 520 acres which is roughly the size of Toronto's downtown core area. These developments and projects like the recently announced Netflix film studios will lead to many changes at Downsview Park and the surrounding area for years and decades to come. One community group based in the local area is seeking to raise a key question - how does the community benefit from all of these new investments and developments?

Modified Semesters for the Upcoming School Year

September 23, 2021 Elizabeth Menjivar

A physically distanced classroom to contribute to the safety of students. Photo credit: Carlos Osorio

As summer comes to an end and students prepare to go back to school, the school boards are working hard to create a plan that ensures the safety of students, teachers and their families.

Downsview Advocate: Matias de Dovitiis for Humber River-Black Creek

September 20, 2021 Editor

In the upcoming federal election, the Downsview Advocate is proud to support local NDP candidate Matias de Dovitiis.

A longtime resident of the Downsview Community, Matias has worked, lived and volunteered to better the community for years.

Meet Your Federal Election 2021 Candidates For The Humber River- Black Creek Riding

September 17, 2021 Kuwarjeet Singh Arora

Election Day is on Monday, September 20, 2021. Don't forget to vote for the candidate of your choice! Please check out the positions from the four parties highlighted.