Children require various supports and new experiences to reach their full potential and youth in Ontario are no exception. However, many lack these key opportunities and resources to explore their communities and maximize their potential. The Children’s Breakfast Club (TCBC) is a non-profit and non-governmental organization that has been serving thousands of Ontario youth for over 30 years through more than 27 program divisions across the province
Read moreLocal schools getting overdue care and attention
In some of the schools in the area, you still see the old North York School Board logo, a relic from before amalgamation, when smaller boards operated local schools. The school boards have changed over time, but the public system we have is one of the oldest in the world.
Read moreLocal Councillor hosts public safety meeting in Shoreham Court
The meeting was requested by residents in response to a shooting , where an adolescent male was critically injured. Violence in the local complex is an ongoing issue, with multiple instances of shots being fired in past years, and a climate of fear growing among local residents.
Read moreDonate School Supplies & Help Kids Start the School Year Off Right!
Yorkgate Mall in partnership with the Downsview Advocate, has officially launched its 1st Annual Countdown to Class! School Supplies Drive in support of The Children’s Breakfast Club.
Read moreJane Finch Tennis Program Spotlight: After-School Program
Jane Finch Tennis brought the community together on several occasions this summer through tennis tournaments, fitness workshops, and socials. As families prepare for school, Jane Finch Tennis is excited to begin supporting students through their various programs!
Read moreLocal Councillor hosts public safety meeting in Shoreham Court
Ward 7 City Councillor Anthony Perruzza invites local residents and city staff to discuss ongoing issues around violence and community safety.
Read moreRecognizing Emancipation Month
BY: SHameera HUsain
The British Empire sought Black and Indigenous peoples for centuries for personal benefit. Through genocide and subjugation, they could not only dominate Indigenous lands but created a rift between various communities and their culture, religion, and way of life. Enduring pain beyond words can describe, the dark and twisted history of slavery across the British Empire and promoting a more Euro-Centric lifestyle continue to affect those that fall under these communities.
Recent studies have shown that across Toronto, Anti-Black racism thrives, affecting the livelihood of approximately 200,000 individuals of African descent/origin. Discrimination in the administration of justice (whether in policing, criminal prosecutions, trials, sentencing, or imprisonment) can cause extraordinary harm to individuals and society.
However, by exposing and scrutinizing the values that underlie our colonized society, we can implement the change we want to see. Starting with the oppression embedded in our social discourse and Canadian identity, we must critically analyze which voices are used to tell our story and which are excluded. We must work to broaden our perspective to see the context within which Canadians are living their lives and how life circumstances are differentially impacted by the oppressive, Eurocentric discourse that dominates.
August is recognized as Emancipation Month. We recognize the many repercussions that stemmed from the infamous legacy of slavery, including intergenerational trauma and systemic racism. But not only do we confront Anti-Black Racism, but we highlight and celebrate black success and resilience. Throughout the month, various events are taking place to honour those who came before us and empower black Torontonians.
A prime example of this is one of the largest events in the city, Caribana! Caribana is an annual festival during the first week of August that embodies Caribbean culture in Toronto and is considered a symbol of grave contributions and sacrifices that Caribbeans and Black communities have made across Canada. It reflects the resilience these communities have shown and celebrates life!
Some upcoming events include Exploring Emancipation from August 2 to August 31, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at Todmorden Mills Heritage Site and the East York Historical Society.
Donate School Supplies & Help Kids Start The School Year Off Right!
Yorkgate Mall in partnership with the Downsview Advocate, will officially launch its 1st Annual Countdown to Class! School Supplies Drive in support of The Children’s Breakfast Club.
Read more“Inspire North” Brings Art, Music, and Dance to Downsview Park
A festival of art and food is making its debut August 18th and 19th at the orchard pavilion, inviting families, friends, and creatives to be inspired by local artists.
Read moreToronto Public Library Revitalized York Woods library reopens in Jane and Finch community, showcasing new services and innovative features
BY: Editor
Toronto Public Library announced the completion of the extensive renovation of its York Woods branch. Situated in the heart of the Jane and Finch community, the newly revamped York Woods branch stands as a stunning district library, exemplifying a large, modern and multi-purpose urban public library and beautiful public infrastructure for the community.
With a commitment to creating public spaces that bring communities together, TPL has transformed the York Woods branch into an inviting space where everyone will feel welcome. Serving a population of more than 55,000, the York Woods branch plays a vital role in providing services that extend far beyond the traditional library lending model. The renovated branch is designed by Diamond Schmitt.
The renovation includes a beautiful new entrance and atrium on the main floor, expanded public space, seating and a prominent street presence.
Exciting new features include:
Youth Hub: TPL's first dedicated Youth Hub provides a dynamic space equipped with a built-in kitchenette and adaptable furniture, offering teenagers school support from librarians, engaging programs, access to technology community resources, along with complimentary nutritious snacks.
Digital Innovation Hub: Whether for learning, business or creative exploration, the newly-established Digital Innovation Hub is equipped with advanced software and a wide variety of new and emerging technologies, including a podcast recording studio and 3D printers.
KidsStop Early Literary Centre: This immersive and interactive space stimulates children’s creativity and imagination, and helps to build their early literacy skills. The space includes interactive elements such as a magnetic wall with a moveable ball run, and "Big Piano" floor keyboard, where children can play by stepping or moving over the keys.
Musical Instrument Lending Library: Library customers can borrow an impressive collection of instruments including guitars, keyboards, violins, wind chimes, a Kalimba, an 8-key African bellaphone, electric violin, and an autoharp. The Musical Instrument Lending Library is generously supported by Sun Life and the Estate of Thomas C.M. Logan.
“We’re excited to welcome the community back to their library at York Woods. Beautiful and well-equipped public spaces like this one help build resilience, success and well-being for the community and its residents. We look forward to welcoming the community back, and hope everyone will take advantage of their beautiful library with its enhanced features and expanded services!”
-Vickery Bowles, City Librarian, Toronto Public Library
Credits to Toronto Public Library. To learn more, visit tpl.ca