May 2020 – Words From Eastern Toronto

May 28, 2020

Mid-Day COVID-19 Update for May 28, 2020

May 28, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Statement from Chief Mark Saunders on SIU Investigation at 100 High Park

Chief Mark Saunders provided a statement on the SIU investigation at 100 High Park where Dimarjio Jenkins, a Toronto rapper known as Houdini, who unfortunately was shot and killed last night. The police are asking for anyone who has information to contact the Special Investigation unit at 1-800-787-8529 or 416-622-0SIU (0748). I would like to offer my condolences to the family and friends of Dimarjio Jenkins.

Governments and international organizations come together to address economic challenges and sustainability

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau, and the Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness, will convene world leaders and international organizations today in a joint initiative to sharpen and accelerate our global response to the significant economic and human impacts of COVID-19, and advance concrete solutions to the development emergency.

With more than 50 Heads of State and Government participating, the High-Level Event on Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond is the most inclusive gathering of countries to focus on the socio-economic recovery and financing needs from the pandemic. We must continue to coordinate these efforts to avoid a devastating impact on people’s lives and livelihoods. More information in the news release.

Ontario takes further action to protect seniors and staff in Long-Term Care Homes during COVID-19 outbreak

To further protect seniors and staff in long-term care homes, the Ontario government announced today that it is extending the mandate of the Incident Management System Long-Term Care Table. This table is composed of health care professionals who make immediate decisions to deal with issues related to staffing levels, infection management and resources during the COVID-19 outbreak.

In April, an Incident Management System (IMS) structure was established to coordinate operational support to long-term care homes. The IMS table meets daily to organize efforts across multiple providers and government to make rapid decisions that support long-term care homes in need. Homes identified for support are those struggling to control outbreaks, complete infection prevention and control assessments, ensure appropriate staffing levels, have access to personal protective equipment (PPE), and complete the testing of all long-term care home residents and staff. More information in the news release.

East Scarborough Boys and Girls Club (ESBGC) FREE LUNCH FRIDAYS!

The ESBGC will be giving away free lunch to the members in our community from the ESBGC parking lot (100 Galloway Rd) this Friday, May 29! Drive-Thru or Walk-Thru and grab a warm lunch from 12:30pm-2:30pm. This weeks menu? Chili and Bread! (Halal and veggie options available). Register HERE.

Volunteer with GlobalMedic

GlobalMedic is assisting where needed in Canada’s response to COVID-19 pandemic. GlobalMedic will be packing hygiene kits and emergency food nearly every weekday to support vulnerable people and front-line healthcare workers across Canada. The University of Toronto Scarborough and the City of Toronto are supporting the recruitment of volunteers who are able to be a part of these events and support GlobalMedic in addressing food insecurity issues for those in the Greater Toronto Area during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information and to sign up to volunteer with GlobalMedic visit this link.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Our KGO Update

Read about East Scarborough’s latest roundup of key neighbourhood resources, virtual results, and up to date information through The East Scarborough Storefront’s crowd-sourced e-newsletter “Our KGO Updates.” Check out their latest issue HERE. SUBSCRIBE HERE.

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 27, 2020May 27, 2020

COVID-19 Update for May 27, 2020

May 27, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that there are now over 45,000 jobs available for young people on https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home.

Toronto City Council meeting to occur virtually May 28

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto City Council will meet virtually tomorrow, May 28 at 9:30 a.m. The first virtual Council Meeting was held on April 30.

City Council will meet using an online video conferencing platform. The public can view the live stream of the meeting at youtube.com/TorontoCityCouncilLive. The full agenda, which includes urgent items only, can be found online at toronto.ca/council.

Waste bin exchanges

As part of our phased approach to resuming services, 311 will now begin taking requests for waste bin exchanges, which were initially suspended as part of the City’s COVID-19 response. Requests to upsize or downsize a recycling or garbage bin can now be made by calling 311. Requests for a new garbage, recycling or green bin, additional bin or bin repair can also be made by calling 311.

Reopening of all closed waste Drop-Off Depots

As part of the City’s COVID-19 response, waste Drop-Off Depots (Transfer Stations) were closed to the general public. Recently, three of the City’s Drop-Off Depots (Transfer Stations) were reopened to the public on Saturday mornings and two Drop-Off Depots were also opened on weeknights.

Beginning Monday, June 1, all Drop-Off Depots will reopen to the general public. They will operate on regular hours, with the exception of Bermondsey and Ingram Drop-Off Depots, which will only be open to the public on weeknights and Saturday mornings.

The hours for these will remain as follows:

Bermondsey: Monday to Thursday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. with a half-hour closure from 11:30 pm to midnight, Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Ingram: Monday to Friday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. with a half-hour closure from 11:30 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Registered account holders can continue to bring material at any time during operating hours. All locations will accept the regular list of materials including household hazardous waste. Compost pickup will not be available at any Drop-Off Depot. Please keep in mind: wait times may occur, cash will not be accepted. Face mask/covering is recommended, and practice physical distancing.

PPE and community-based agencies

The City’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has received numerous inquiries over the last number of weeks with respect to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), requests for community-based agencies. In response to these requests and the dynamic status of donations, the City, in partnership with the United Way, has developed a community coordination plan –ten geographic clusters and three additional clusters have been established and are supported by cluster coordinators.

The EOC asks that any community agencies in need of supplies and/or services, including PPE, communicate those needs to their established cluster coordinator. The requests will be shared with the Toronto Office of Partnerships to identify potential donation matches and coordinate delivery of any available supplies.

Digital Main Street program

The City of Toronto has expanded the Digital Main Street program to help local businesses develop or expand their online services during COVID-19 pandemic. Digital Main Street offers online tools, connections to trusted digital vendors, structured online learning and a Digital Service Squad who provide one-on-one assistance to help businesses grow and manage their operations through technology.

Local businesses can complete the Digital Main Street onboarding process and receive their free Digital Assessment and recommended to-do list at https://digitalmainstreet.ca/toronto/

City of Toronto opens eighth emergency child care centre for essential and critical service workers

Today, Mayor John Tory announced that the City of Toronto has received authorization from the Province of Ontario to open another licensed child care centre to provide care for the children of essential and critical service workers. Like the first seven centres, this new centre is in an existing City-run licensed child care facility and staffed by City of Toronto child care workers. The new child care centre is now open and is located at Blake Street Early Learning & Child Care Centre, 84 Blake St. in the East York community.

Gardiner closure, accelerated road construction and ActiveTO this weekend

This weekend, the Gardiner Expressway will be fully closed from the Don Valley Parkway to Hwy 427 for annual maintenance and improvement activities, the intersection of Richmond Street East and Church Street is fully closed for construction, and there will be closures in place for people to practise physical distancing while being physically active on Bayview Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard East.

The Gardiner Expressway will be fully closed starting at 11 p.m. on Friday, May 29 until 5 a.m. on Monday, June 1 for important annual maintenance and improvements. More information at toronto.ca/gardiner

Access to public washrooms and showers

The City has opened a number of facilities with showers, washrooms, and drinking water for all individuals in need of these services.

Starting at the end of day Thursday, May 28, Commander Recreation Centre/Arena and Malvern Recreation Centre/Arena will be transitioned out and staff from these centres will begin preparation to open the Amesbury Arena. This facility will open on May 31 and will offer access to washrooms, showers and water. For up-to-date locations, operating hours and amenities, please visit this site.

City of Toronto releases geographic information on local COVID-19 cases

Today, the City released geographic information on COVID-19 cases in Toronto to help fight the spread of this virus in the city. By knowing where those impacted by COVID-19 live, and by assessing other important risk factors, Toronto Public Health is better able to inform preventive actions, identify where proactive testing can be helpful and take action to reduce virus spread.

The maps reflect where individuals live, and do not necessarily reflect where they were initially exposed to this virus. Areas with lower rates of COVID-19 cases are not necessarily safer and do not pose less of a risk of infection. Case status data and geographic maps can be found on the City’s reporting platform here.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. There are 10,525 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 152 cases since yesterday. There are 356 cases in hospital, with 84 in ICU. In total, 7,814 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 187 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 780 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform here.

Enforcement update

The COVID-19 enforcement team continues to respond to complaints and proactively patrol parks and other public spaces, in an effort to ensure public understanding of the need to maintain physical distancing. Ensuring compliance through education and awareness remains the preferred method of engagement, but enforcement continues to take place as necessary.

Yesterday, the City received 217 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities that remain closed or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Police and bylaw officers issued 17 tickets. Enforcement officers have spoken to nearly 6,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City also received 64 complaints about gatherings and police issued 13 gathering-related tickets.

Volunteer with GlobalMedic

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Our KGO Update

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 26, 2020

End of Day COVID-19 Update for May 26, 2020

May 26, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Cooling Centres during Heat Relief

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a Heat Warning for Toronto for Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27. Starting today, six locations will offer a publicly accessible air-conditioned place to rest indoors and receive a cool drink. Staff who are trained to assist residents affected by the extreme heat will be on hand. Infection prevention and control measures will be in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Emergency Cooling Centres will be open at the following community centres from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 26 and 27:

Wallace Emerson Community Centre, 1260 Dufferin St.
Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter St.
Malvern Community Centre Arena, 30 Sewells Rd
Scarborough Village Community Centre Arena, 3600 Kingston Rd.
Amesbury Arena, 155 Culford Dr.
Domenico DiLuca Community Centre, 25 Stanley Rd.

End Of The Day COVID-19 Update

May 25, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Heat Relief 2020

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) today issued a Heat Warning for Toronto for Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27. ECCC issues a Heat Warning when it forecasts two or more consecutive days with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C or warmer, together with minimum nighttime temperatures of 20°C or warmer, or when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40 or higher.

The City’s Heat Relief Strategy has been updated for the 2020 hot weather season, in response to COVID-19, to ensure that emergency heat relief opportunities are available and accessible to those who may need it. Many facilities that were part of the City’s 2019 Heat Relief Network of cool spaces across Toronto are closed due to COVID-19. For this reason, the City’s plan for heat relief this year has been modified and includes a select number of Emergency Cooling Centres that will open across Toronto during Heat Warnings.

Starting tomorrow (Tuesday, May 26) six locations will offer a publicly accessible air-conditioned place to rest indoors and receive a cool drink. Staff who are trained to assist residents affected by the extreme heat will be on hand. Infection prevention and control measures will be in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Emergency Cooling Centres will be open at the following community centres from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 26 and 27:

Wallace Emerson Community Centre, 1260 Dufferin St.
Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter St.
Malvern Community Centre Arena, 30 Sewells Rd
Scarborough Village Community Centre Arena, 3600 Kingston Rd.
Amesbury Arena, 155 Culford Dr.
Domenico DiLuca Community Centre, 25 Stanley Rd.

Help residents keep cool: Toronto Heat Bylaw

The Heat Bylaw states that all landlords are responsible for providing heat to a minimum temperature of 21 degrees Celsius from September 15 to June 1. However, there are periods during spring when unseasonably warm weather can cause the indoor temperature of units to rise above this temperature without additional heat. Landlords can turn off the heat in rental units, if the weather outside means that the building is 21 degrees Celsius without heat. More information about the heat bylaw is available at toronto.ca/heatbylaw.

Paramedic Services Week 2020

May 24-30, 2020 is Paramedic Services Week in Canada. This celebration is held each year to recognize the contributions of these vital public servants who help maintain a safe and healthy city for all Torontonians. Today, we acknowledge the staff of Toronto Paramedic Services including those on the frontlines and behind the scenes, who ensure that when any member of the public calls 9-1-1 for medical assistance, they receive superior and compassionate paramedic-based health care, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Waitlist for businesses requiring licenses and/or permits from the City of Toronto

In March, following advice from the Medical Officer of Health and in support of the City of Toronto’s coordinated response to COVID-19, the City suspended a number of City services to ensure the continued delivery of critical services and protect the health of City staff and residents. The issuing of new business licences and renewal of existing licences by the City of Toronto has been suspended since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Municipal Licensing & Standards (MLS) understands the anxiety business owners are experiencing and is making plans to resume licensing activities as part of the City’s recovery and rebuild efforts. A waitlist has been created for businesses requiring licences and/or permits from the City of Toronto. Businesses that are on the waitlist will be contacted directly by MLS staff, in order of registration, with information about next steps in online licensing and resumption of services. Businesses wishing to be added to the waitlist can email mlsapplication@toronto.ca. More information on business licensing and application requirements is available at https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/permits-licences-bylaws/.

Non-emergency bylaw enforcement and investigation services remain suspended, including service requests related to enforcement of bylaws governing licensed businesses. Information on City services can be found online: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/affected-city-services/.

Last Pothole Blitz of May

Yesterday, City of Toronto crews repaired 6,807 potholes and addressed 168 requests for pothole repairs during the last of three weekend pothole blitzes planned in May.

Reminder: Face coverings or non-medical masks strongly recommended when physical distancing cannot be maintained

To help stop the spread of COVID-19, Toronto Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa and Mayor John Tory strongly recommend that the public wear a face mask or face covering to protect others when in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained. While wearing a face mask or face covering in public can help protect others from your germs, public health officials continue to stress that a face mask or face covering has not been proven to protect the person wearing it from COVID-19 and is not a substitute for physical distancing and hand washing.

Toronto Public Health partnering with COVID-19 Near You

Toronto Public Health is partnering with COVID Near You to monitor the frequency of COVID-like symptoms in Toronto. COVID Near You relies on voluntary participation from the general public, asking you to take a few seconds to report if you or your family members have been healthy or sick.

Toronto Public Health is asking residents to help them learn how symptoms of COVID-19 may be moving through our community by completing a short survey about their current symptoms. A link to the COVID Near You survey can be found on the Reduce Virus Spread page.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. There are 10,212 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 177 cases since yesterday. There are 377 cases in hospital, with 91 in ICU. In total, 7,509 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 112 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 761 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform at https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/covid-19-status-of-cases-in-toronto/.

Enforcement update

The City’s coordinated COVID-19 Enforcement Team remains focused on providing education about the physical distancing bylaw and provincial orders. Ensuring compliance through education and awareness remains the preferred method of engagement, but enforcement continues to take place if necessary.

Yesterday, the City had a greater number of bylaw and police officers at Trinity Bellwoods Park throughout the day educating residents about physical distancing and proper use of the park. This strategy was successful, and although many people enjoyed the park, there was not a repeat of Saturday. If a park is crowded when residents arrive, we encourage them to visit a different park, or come back later.

To assist residents with physical distancing, the City is exploring the use of circles painted on the grass, as has been successful in other jurisdictions. This will be piloted in Trinity Bellwoods Park, and staff will evaluate the effectiveness of this measure and may expand it to other destination and high traffic parks in Toronto.

No public ferry access to Toronto Island Park

There is no public ferry access to Toronto Island Park. New federal regulations limit the number of individuals on a ferry in order to reduce crowding and limit the potential for virus transmission. The ferry will continue running for Island residents only.

Online Webinar for Retail Businesses, May 28, 2020

The City’s Economic Development division is working with Toronto Public Health on a number of resources to assist businesses as they work to re-open. Part of that work includes guidelines and best practices for various sectors. This Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the City is hosting a free webinar about government guidelines and recently created City programs to support main street and retail businesses. Register for the event here.

Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance now open for applications

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that applications are now being accepted for the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses. Over the course of the program, property owners will reduce rent by at least 75% for the months of April and May (retroactive), and June, for their small business tenants. CECRA will cover 50% of the rent, with the tenant paying up to 25% and the property forgiving at least 25%. For more information please read the full news release.

COVID-19 Local Assessment centres

If you or someone you know would like to be tested, you’re asked to visit one of the local testing centres closest to you. For a list of available locations, click HERE.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Our KGO Update

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 25, 2020

Mid Day COVID -19 Update for May 25, 2020

May 25, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw – details here:

Guildwood Extendicare
COVID-19 outbreak at Guildwood Extendicare. Since the outbreak was declared at this facility, Toronto Public Health (TPH) assigned an investigator to work with the home to provide guidance and recommendations on outbreak control measures, in accordance with provincial guidelines. These measures include, but are not limited to:
o Posting outbreak notification signs at the entrance and on outbreak affected units
o Ensuring droplet contact precautions in place, meaning staff wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when providing direct care residents
o Testing all residents and staff on outbreak affected floors /units, including staff and residents not displaying symptoms (asymptomatic), in accordance with the provincial directive on COVID 19 testing
o Ensuring COVID-19 positive residents are isolated with COVID-19 positive residents on the affected outbreak floors/units
o Conducting daily screening of staff (twice a day)
o Restricting admissions, readmissions and visitations (some exceptions for essential visitors)
o Increased surveillance and enhanced environmental cleaning and disinfection
o Physical distancing measures are in place, and the cancellation of all communal activities

Toronto Public Health is also investigate all outbreak associated positive cases of COVID-19 and close contacts, and provide the facility with COVID-19 test swabs. With respect to testing at this facility, please note that universal/mass testing of all residents and staff has been conducted twice (April 23, 2020 and May 15, 2020).

To further assist with bringing this outbreak under control, local health care partners including the Scarborough Health Network (SHN) and the Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) have joined TPH in supporting this facility. Specifically, the SHN has conducted infection prevention and control (IPAC) online and onsite training with all staff; and performed an IPAC assessment, an environmental assessment and a health and safety assessment. The LHIN is providing staffing support at this facility, and as of May 21, 2020, Public Health Ontario also conducted an additional IPAC assessment.

Toronto Public Health will continue to support this long-term care home through the outbreak and remains engaged with local health care partners who are also involved. These are extraordinary times and we appreciate the desire for more information. Please be assured our focus is managing this pandemic and supporting our healthcare partners in managing institutional outbreaks, especially because this affects our most City’s vulnerable – our parents, grand-parents and loved ones. This is why we also continue to remind people to stay home to protect our essential workers so that they can continue to protect us and our loved ones.

If you require further information please contact your Provincial Member of Parliament for further updates. Mitzie Hunter MPP mhunter.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

City of Toronto ActiveTO cycling network plan proposes 40 kilometres of expanded and accelerated routes
Today, Mayor John Tory announced that a City of Toronto staff report scheduled for consideration by City Council later this week proposes that key parts of the cycling network be expanded, through accelerated installation of routes in the council-approved Cycling Network Plan, as part of the ActiveTO program.

During the April 30 Toronto City Council meeting, staff were requested to look at more active transportation as a crucial part of the city’s COVID-19 restart and recovery and in anticipation of changes in traffic patterns. For more information please read this news release:

Full Closure of Markham Road at Hwy 401
Please be advised that as part of the Ministry of Transportation’s ongoing construction project, Markham Road Northbound and Southbound will be fully closed at Highway 401 from May 30, 2020 at 10:00PM to May 31, 2020 at 10AM for Markham Road Bridge deck removal.

During the full closure, Markham Road Southbound traffic planning to access Highway 401 Eastbound Collectors will be detoured to Markham Road Northbound on-ramp via Progress Avenue-Detour 25.

During the full closure, Markham Road Northbound traffic planning to access Highway 401 Westbound Collectors will be detoured to Markham Road Southbound on-ramp via Progress Avenue- Detour 24.

Please see this map: for more details.

Toronto Zoo Scenic Drive-Thru Now Open!
This weekend, the Toronto Zoo officially opened to public the new Scenic Drive-Thru experience. With a sell-out crowd of over 700 cars expected on its first day of full operations, a number of VIPs were on hand to officially open and welcome the eager Zoo guests. The new Scenic Safari driving route will allow guests to see the Zoo’s animals from the comfort and safety of their own vehicle along a 3.4 kilometres route which takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.

Check out http://www.torontozoo.com/scenicsafari/ for details.

Guests must pre-purchase their tickets by booking their drive-thru time online at torontozoo.com. Tickets are currently SOLD OUT. New dates/tickets will be available soon, watch torontozoo.com for updates and ticket information.

Please click here:for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24
Please click here:for a list of food banks in East Scarborough
Please click here: for a list of food banks in Scarborough
Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Our KGO Update
Read up to date information through The East Scarborough Storefront’s crowd-sourced e-newsletter “Our KGO Updates.” Check out their latest issue here:. SUBSCRIBE HERE:

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check www.toronto.ca/covid-19 for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,
Paul

May 21, 2020May 21, 2020

COVID-19 Update For May 21, 2020

May 21, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Prime Minister announces additional support for Indigenous peoples living in urban centres and off reserve

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $75 million in new funding for Indigenous organizations providing services to Indigenous peoples in urban centres and off reserve. This funding will support more community-based projects that address the critical needs of Indigenous populations during this crisis. Full news release can be read here.

Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough Community Lunch Tomorrow

In partnership with Children’s Charity by Presidents Choice we will be ‘feeding hungry minds.’ Our club will be giving away free lunch to the members in our community from the ESBGC parking lot this Friday! Drive-Thru or Walk-Thru and grab a warm lunch from 12:30pm-2:30pm. This week’s menu? Soups and Sandwiches! (Halal and veggie options available). More information here.

Toronto Public Library starting curbside drop-off and pick-up service

Toronto Public Library (TPL) today announced details about the rollout of its curbside drop-off and pick-up service. Starting Monday, May 25, Research & Reference Locations and District Branch locations, including Cedarbrae Library in Ward 24, will open their drop boxes to accept the return of library materials. On Monday, June 1, drop boxes at all remaining accessible branches will open to accept returns. TPL estimates that there are more than one million items currently out on loan. For a full map of library locations, click here.

The introduction of these services will follow the reopening framework provided by the Province of Ontario, the advice of the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Toronto Medical Officer of Health, and incorporates best practices within library and retail industries for the safe delivery of curbside service. For more information please click here.

More than 850 park amenities to reopen this week

City of Toronto will open more than 850 park amenities this week, following the Province of Ontario’s amendments to an order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act

Five BMX locations, 14 skateboard parks and four-disc golf locations opened yesterday. Park amenities scheduled to open in time for this upcoming weekend include:

picnic shelters
more than 300 soccer and multi-use outdoor fields
more than 300 baseball diamonds and
150 basketball courts.

The reopening of parks amenities will continue into next week, as staff work with Toronto Public Health to open lawn bowling facilities and outdoor bocce.

Update about tennis courts:

When the Province amended its emergency order, staff developed COVID-19 guidelines for public use as well as club use in consultation with Toronto Public Health. These guidelines will be posted on the City’s website.
Guidelines include bringing one’s own tennis balls, no doubles, self-screening prior to attending the court, physical distancing, and wearing a mask when physical distancing is not possible.
Signage is in production and will be installed this weekend.
Tennis courts are being prepared by staff for opening now, including removal of boards, installation of nets, and repairs.
Courts will begin to open for public use early next week.
Staff have been in communication with tennis clubs, and will be issuing new permits shortly. Clubs are being provided with access for setup effective May 22. We expect a start date for club play next week.

Update about parking:

All parks parking lots will be open by this weekend, with the exception of:
Sunnyside and Sir Casimir in the western beaches due to the ActiveTO Lakeshore closure this weekend – these will open next week.
In order to allow for physical distancing on busy weekends, High Park will be closed to vehicles on Saturdays and Sundays.
Concrete barriers at Ashbridges Bay and Cherry Beach will be removed by this weekend and Transportation Services will manage access through ActiveTO.
Locations with concrete barriers need special equipment for removal. These will be removed next week. These locations are:
- North York: Leaside Park
- South: Underpass Park; Kiwanis Pool at Stan Wadlow Park; Haldon Avenue parking lot for Taylor Creek Park; Riverdale East Park, North entrance to Pool/Rink
- East: Malvern C.C.; Burrows Hall C.C.; Major Ali Abbas Park/Scott Westney House
- West: Sunnyside; Sir Casmir

St. Lawrence Market: Outdoor season of the Saturday Farmers Market begins this weekend

The outdoor season of the Saturday Farmers Market will begin on Saturday, May 23, 2020. Outdoor farmers will be located on Market Street between The Esplanade and Wilton Street. Other farmers will continue to operate inside the Temporary Market. Lineup areas for the indoor and outdoor farmers will continue to start on Market Street for entrance to both areas. Visitors who are not from the same household are required to maintain a physical distance of two metres. All visitors are encouraged to wear a mask or face covering. Please visit stlawrencemarket.com for more information.

Face coverings or non-medical masks strongly recommended when physical distancing cannot be maintained

Major Road Closures this weekend

The following three major road closures are planned this weekend for ActiveTO from Saturday, May 23 at 6 a.m. until Sunday, May 24 at 11 p.m.:

Lake Shore Boulevard West (eastbound lanes only) from Windermere Avenue to Stadium Road. The eastbound Gardiner Expressway off ramp to Lake Shore Boulevard West (exit #146) will also be closed
Lake Shore Boulevard East (eastbound lanes only) from Coxwell Avenue to just south of Woodbine Avenue (Kew Beach Avenue)
Bayview Avenue from Mill Street to Rosedale Valley Road, and River Street from Gerrard Street East to Bayview Avenue.

Traffic will be actively managed during these closures through signal timing adjustments on adjacent routes, as well as roadway signage to alert drivers. Motorists who normally travel these roads on weekends should plan alternate routes. Those expecting to use the major road closures to cycle, run or walk should access them by bike or as a pedestrian, since nearby parking is limited and site parking is not provided.

ActiveTO includes a plan for 57 kilometres of Quiet Streets across the city. Work on installing and planning Quiet Streets on neighbourhood roads is continuing. Quiet Streets are neighbourhood streets where traffic calming measures, such as signage and temporary barricades, are placed at intersections to encourage slow, local vehicle access only so that the roadway can be a shared space that also welcomes people who walk, run and bike. Parking and drop off areas are not impacted, and City services, such as waste collection and emergency access, continue as normal.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. As the City safely and gradually reopens select park amenities and businesses, residents are urged to continue following public health advice to help stop the community spread of the virus. There are 9,357 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 228 cases since yesterday. There are 411 cases in hospital, with 96 in ICU. In total, 6,885 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 150 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 732 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Everyone has a role to play to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself and others is to adhere to the advice of Toronto’s Medial Officer of Health:

practise physical distancing by keeping two metres (six feet) from others
wear a face covering or non-medical mask in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained
wash hands often, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and
stay home if feeling unwell and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Enforcement update

The City’s physical distancing bylaw and the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders remain in effect. Yesterday, the City received 90 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities that remain closed or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Bylaw officers issued six tickets for physical distancing. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 4,100 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Our KGO Update

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 20, 2020

COVID-19 Update for May 20, 2020

May 20, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

City of Toronto reopening more than 850 park amenities this week

Today, Mayor John Tory announced the City of Toronto will open more than 850 park amenities this week, following the Province of Ontario’s amendments to an order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. The City of Toronto closed all parks amenities in March, based on public health advice and ahead of the provincial order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the city.

Dog Off-Leash Areas are now open

The City’s more than 70 dog off-leash areas opened today following the Province’s amendments to an order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. While visiting, people must continue to practise physical distancing by staying 2 metres (6 feet) or three happy dogs apart.

City of Toronto reopening waste Drop-off Depots to the public

The City of Toronto, under the guidance of the Medical Officer of Health, is gradually reopening City facilities and restarting operations where it is safe to do so. As part of the City’s phased resumption of services, Drop-off Depots (Transfer Stations) are now partially reopening to the public.

Starting on Tuesday, May 19, at 6 p.m., Bermondsey and Ingram Drop-off Depots will open to the public on weeknights for drop-off of recycling, garbage, and yard waste. Hours of operation are as follows:

Bermondsey: Monday to Thursday from 6 p.m. to midnight and 12:30 a.m. to 6 a.m., Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Ingram: Monday to Friday from 6 p.m. to midnight and 12:30 am to 6 a.m.

In addition, Bermondsey, Ingram, as well as Scarborough Drop-off Depots will be open to the public on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for drop-off of recycling, garbage, and yard waste, as well as household hazardous waste. For more information please read the news release or view the COVID-19: Changes to City Services COVID-19: Changes to City Services web page.

Toronto Zoo reopening this weekend

The Toronto Zoo will open for a drive-through experience starting Saturday. Visitors can tour around the Zoo from the comfort of their car for a 45-minute safari adventure starting May 23. Tickets will be on sale starting May 22 and must be purchased in advance. For more information, please visit torontozoo.com/scenicsafari

City of Toronto strongly recommends face coverings or non-medical masks be worn when physical distancing cannot be maintained

To help stop the spread of COVID-19, today Toronto Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa and Mayor John Tory strongly recommended that the public wear a face mask or face covering to protect others when in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Toronto Public Health advises that wearing a face mask or face covering in public can help protect others from your germs. However, public health officials continue to stress that a face mask or face covering has not been proven to protect the person wearing it from COVID-19 and is not a substitute for physical distancing and hand washing.

City of Toronto expands ActiveTO major road closures this weekend

Mayor John Tory announced today that the City of Toronto will expand its ActiveTO major road closures footprint this weekend to provide residents with more space to physically distance while outdoors and getting exercise, while helping stop the spread of COVID-19. Vehicle access on parts of more major roads will be closed for walking, running and biking this Saturday and Sunday.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

With additional park amenities reopening today, residents are reminded of the importance of adhering to public health advice to practise physical distancing or wear a face covering or non-medical mask to protect others when in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

There are 9,129 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 263 cases since yesterday. There are 413 cases in hospital, with 92 in ICU. In total, 6,735 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 119 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 716 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Enforcement update

The COVID-19 enforcement team will continue responding to complaints and proactively patrolling parks and other public spaces, in an effort to ensure public understanding of the need to limit social interactions. Officers are out educating residents on the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders, and only issuing tickets in circumstances where education efforts have failed. Yesterday, the City received 64 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Bylaw officers issued three tickets for physical distancing. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 4,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Our KGO Update

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 14, 2020

Mid_Day Update on COVID-19 for May 14, 2020

May 14, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

I, Hon. MP John McKay and MPP Mitzie Hunter held our second Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall last night! I would like to thank everyone who joined us and submitted questions during the stream and in advance. If we didn’t get to your question, please email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

Province of Ontario announces details of Stage 1 of reopening the economy

Today, Premier Doug Ford announced details of stage 1 of reopening the economy. As of Saturday, May 16 at 12:01am, private parks, campgrounds, boat clubs and golf courses and businesses that board animals can open.

On Tuesday, May 19, 2020 the Province of Ontario will enter Stage 1 of reopening the economy which entails the reopening of the following:

retail stores with street entrances not located in shopping malls
sports fields, tennis courts and off leash dog parts
pet groomers and veterinary services are also allowed to reopen by appointment only
health services such as non-emergency diagnostic imaging and surgeries
measures have been taken so that all construction services can resume

Businesses are strongly advised to only reopen if they are ready. Monitoring and tracing numbers and trends is vital in our process to move forward. Full news release can be found here.

Today, a workplace PPE supplier directory webpage has been launched by the Province of Ontario to help businesses find suppliers for PPE, which is vital in the reopening of our economy. The directory can be accessed through www.ontario.ca/PPE. Additional health advice, tips and posters can be found at www.ontario.ca/COVID.

COVID-19 Emergency Benefit for People Receiving Social Assistance

The COVID-19 Emergency Benefit which was introduced as a one-time benefit in April 2020, has been extended and is now available in each month up to and including July 2020. This benefit is available for people receiving assistance from Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) who may have had additional costs related to COVID-19. This benefit will help cover the additional costs of emergency needs such as hygiene and personal protective supplies, cleaning supplies, non-medical transportation, or additional costs for staple foods. The amount is $100 for a single person and $200 for a family. For more information, please see this fact sheet.

City of Toronto partners with Ritual to support Toronto restaurants and food services

Ritual ONE provides restaurants and food services, such as grocers, butchers and bakeries with an easy way to accept digital orders from their own website and social media accounts. Businesses that sign up for Ritual ONE by June 1 will receive the service free for life and will not pay any commission or monthly subscription fees on Ritual ONE orders. Businesses enrolled in the City’s ShopHERE program – which was launched Monday – will also be eligible for Ritual ONE and a lifetime exemption from commission and subscription fees. Toronto independent businesses and artists can sign up for their free online ShopHERE store at digitalmainstreet.ca/shophere. For more information on Ritual ONE please read the news release.

City of Toronto provides update on key construction projects

Over the next couple weeks, the City of Toronto will begin construction on a number of key projects to renew and improve aging infrastructure. With traffic volumes on Toronto’s roads down between 45 and 65 per cent as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City recently announced that construction is moving forward this year and work will be accelerated on as many important projects as possible. More information can be found in this news release.

City Hall Live performances move online to support artists
City Hall Live Online, in partnership with Unison Benevolent Fund, is working to support Toronto artists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out the music series, which features two performances a day, Monday to Friday from noon to 1 p.m., until June on Facebook Live. More than 100 local artists will be compensated for their 30-minute virtual performances.

City of Toronto statement on collision involving a City vehicle

A pedestrian has died following a collision that involved a City vehicle. The City extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victim that has passed away. A City employee was injured in the incident and has been taken to hospital. The City is fully cooperating with the Toronto Police and Ministry of Labour investigations. It will also conduct its own internal investigation to better understand what took place. The City remains committed to ensuring the safety of the public and its employees.

The Regional Relief and Recover Fund

The federal government released applications for its new Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RFFF), which totals a $962M investment through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies (RDAs). The RRRF provides funding to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are unable to access the government’s existing support measures, and access to capital for rural businesses and communities.

FedDev Ontario

FedDev Ontario is delivering $252.4 million in funding through the RRRF in southern Ontario, including $213 million for SMEs facing financial pressure, and $39.4 million through the Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs). For full eligibility criteria and additional information, please visit FedDev Ontario’s RRRF page.

Canadian Emergency Student Benefit

The Canadian Emergency Student Benefit opens this Friday and will provide $1250 or $1750 if you have a disability and/or dependents. This is to help students and graduates who will not have as many job opportunities this summer. More information on the benefit can be accessed here.

Boys & Girls Club of East Scarborough Drive-thru Lunch: May 15^th

Boys & Girls Club of East Scarborough will be giving away free lunch to the members in our community from the ESBGC parking lot this Friday! Drive-Thru or Walk-Thru and grab a warm lunch from 12:30pm-2:30pm. Register here.

Student’s Guide to Navigating COVID-19

A Student’s guide to schooling during COVID-19 to help students understand their rights and expectations during remote earning. See the Student Guide here.

How to Balcony Garden: Grow All You Can Webinar

Brought to you by Park People Sparking Change Program with facilitation by Lara Mrovsky, professional gardener, artist, and author of Grow Without A Garden: 101 Plants for Containers. Thursday, May 14th at 7 pm – Free! — Register here!

S2S Learning Exchange Employment Program

An Accenture developed career training resource called Learning Exchange for youth. It includes good examples of soft skills curriculum that is employer’s recognized / informed / validated. More information on how to participate here.

Youth Employment Services offering pre-employment programs online

The Youth Collaboration program assists youth 15-30 who are not in school, unemployed and not receiving Employment Insurance by providing 3 weeks of paid skills training and a 10 week paid work placement. The program starts on June 1^st, more information can be found here.

The Job Central program assists youth 15-30 who are not in school, unemployed and not receiving Employment Insurance by providing 3 weeks of paid skills training and a 10 week paid work placement. The program starts on June 1^st, more information can be found here.

The 2020 Annual Human Library

A Human Library is an event where individuals share their stories and experiences with the community. The Mind & Spirit Youth Leadership committee is looking for story tellers to join in a community story telling virtual event! This event will be held online via Zoom. See flyer here.

Harley Owners Group (H.O.G) Ride for Front Line Workers

The Scarborough Chapter of H.O.G to raise money for the Scarborough Health Network (SHN) Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Fund and to express gratitude to the front-line essential workers helping our communities during the coronavirus pandemic. The Front Line Workers Gratitude Ride will take place on Saturday, May 16^th departing from the Tam Heather Curling Club (730 Military Trail) and The Corner Bank Sports Bar & Grill (925 Warden Ave.) at 12:00noon. In keeping with social distancing measures, there will be no meetings or stops during or after the ride.

Minimum donations of $25 per rider and $10 per passenger will be collected from participants. Non-riders are welcome to support this cause with a donation to Scarborough Health Network Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Fund. See full news release here.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 12, 2020

COVID-19 Update for May 12, 2020

May 12, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Don’t forget, Scarborough-Guildwood’s second Live Town Hall is TOMORROW, May 13, at 7:00PM! Join me, Hon. MP John McKay and MPP Mitzie Hunter as we answer your questions about the government’s response to COVID-19.

You can submit your questions during the Town Hall in the live broadcast.

Allotment gardens are open for the 2020 season

The City’s community gardens and allotment gardens are open for the 2020 season as the Province of Ontario has amended its emergency order. Plans for the safe operation of these gardens include COVID-19 public health guidelines. This week, permit holders were notified that their allotment is available. All permit holders must sign the provided permit and declaration forms before they can attend an allotment garden. Visit the City’s website for more information about allotment and community gardens.

Stay, Play & Learn at Home

If you’re looking for ways to stay active and engaged while practicing social distancing or self-isolating at home, visit the City’s new Stay, Play & Learn at Home web page to find a listing of free recreational and fitness programs, fun virtual learning and leisure activities. You can sort activities by type, time commitment and audience. There’s something in the listing for every age group and the page will continue to be updated with more virtual resources.

2020 Canadian National Exhibition is cancelled

Canada’s largest fair, and an iconic Toronto celebration, will not light up this summer. The Canadian National Exhibition Association (CNEA) announced today, that this year’s CNE will not move forward with its 18-day event slated for August 21 to September 7, 2020 at Exhibition Place. The event is cancelled this year out of an abundance of caution to safeguard the health of CNE employees, volunteers, visitors, vendors and artists; and its shared responsibility in protecting public safety during this unprecedented health crisis. For more information, please visit the CNE website.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

Toronto Public Health continues to see new infections in the city. There are 7,775 people infected with COVID-19 in Toronto, an increase of 218 since yesterday. There are also 5,449 people who have recovered from the virus, an increase of 109 since yesterday. Additional case status information can be found on the City’s reporting platform. Get the latest health advice on the City’s website.

COVID-19 Enforcement

The COVID-19 Enforcement Team is continuing their important work across the city, educating residents on the City’s physical distancing bylaw and provincial Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act orders. The City received 24 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, 132 tickets and 269 notices have been issued to non-essential businesses. There have been no complaints related to new retail business curbside pickup. Yesterday, the City received 78 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Bylaw officers issued four tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since May 1 to 55 tickets. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to 2,141 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. Residents can report non-compliance online though the City’s website.

Local businesses surveyed on COVID-19 impact

The City of Toronto surveyed over 20,000 businesses and Business Improvement Associations in an effort to hear directly from local businesses about how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting them. The results of the survey help understand the implications of COVID-19 on local businesses and what information and support businesses need at this time. Find a range of business and sector supports offered by the City at toronto.ca/covid19.

Harley Owners Group (H.O.G) Ride for Front Line Workers

The Front Line Workers Gratitude Ride will take place on Saturday, May 16^th departing from the Tam Heather Curling Club (730 Military Trail) and The Corner Bank Sports Bar & Grill (925 Warden Ave.) at 12:00noon. In keeping with social distancing measures, there will be no meetings or stops during or after the ride.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul

May 11, 2020

Evening COVID-19 Update for May 11, 2020

May 11, 2020

Dear Neighbours,

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Please join me, Hon. MP John McKay and MPP Mitzie Hunter on Wednesday May 13 at 7:00PM for our second Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall.

You can submit your questions in advance, by May 12, 4:30PM

National Nursing Week

In honour of the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth (May 12), the World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife. This year, National Nursing Week is May 11 to 17. The theme is Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Nursing the World to Health. It was developed by the International Council of Nurses to showcase how nurses are central to addressing a wide range of health challenges.

The City has approximately 1,660 employees in nursing positions and we’d like to thank them for the remarkable service they provide, during the COVID-19 pandemic and every day!

City of Toronto launches ShopHERE to help local businesses and artists open free online stores

Today, Mayor John Tory announced the launch of ShopHERE, a new initiative to help Toronto’s independent businesses and artists set-up their online stores with the help of volunteer web developers, business students and corporate partners. The free program provides businesses one-on-one support with building an online store to start selling their goods and services right away. The ShopHERE program is open to any business or artist that meets the eligibility requirements.

ShopHERE is part of the Digital Main Street program, which offers tools, resources, connections to trusted digital vendors, online learning, and a Digital Service Squad that provides one-on-one virtual assistance. Digital Main Street was created by the City of Toronto and Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas in 2016 and was recently expanded as part of the Mayor’s Economic Support and Recovery Task Force’s short-term economic support and recovery plan for Toronto’s businesses. Read news release.

Toronto Rent Bank Update

The City of Toronto has made recent program enhancements to the Toronto Rent Bank in response to COVID-19. As we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an economic impact on the livelihoods of Toronto residents. Many are facing financial hardship, including the inability to pay rent. The Toronto Rent Bank provides interest-free loans to low-income households in Toronto who are experiencing rental arrears or require help with a rental deposit in order to prevent homelessness.

The City of Toronto has made an investment of $2M to the Toronto Rent Bank to support approximately 800 additional low-income households to remain housed.

Program changes have also been implemented to be more responsive to the needs of low-income households during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:

Increasing the maximum allowable loan from $3,500 to $4,000 for up to 3 months of rental arrear loans.
Automatically deferring all loan repayments for up to a period of 12 months
Eliminating the eligibility requirement that households demonstrate a steady income on a go-forward basis
Moving from original copies to electronic document verification

For more information on how to apply, residents may call 416-397-RENT(7368),

Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Outside of operating hours, callers may leave a message and a representative will return their call. More information about the Toronto Rent Bank is available on their website.

City of Toronto supporting retail business reopen for curbside pickup and delivery today

On May 8, the City of Toronto announced a plan to support retail business reopen for curbside pickup and delivery today. Staff and customers can be kept safe by following these physical distancing tips and resources.

High Park partial reopening

This morning, the City completed removal of fencing around High Park (read Mayor’s message). As of last night, the park’s greenspace and trails can again be used to get exercise and fresh air. Park amenities are still closed, and the physical distancing bylaw remains in effect. Enforcement officers will be in the park to ensure physical distancing and prevent crowding near lingering cherry blossoms.

Regular updates are being made to the COVID-19: Affected City Services & Facilities webpage.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

Dr. de Villa stated that, while we are making progress in Toronto’s battle against COVID-19, Toronto Public Health continues to see new infections in the city. There are 7,557 infected with COVID-19 in Toronto, an increase of 144 since yesterday. There are also 5,340 people who have recovered from the virus, an increase of 148 since yesterday. Unfortunately, today Dr. de Villa reported the first COVID-19 death within the city’s emergency shelter system. Additional case status information can be found on the City’s reporting platform. Get the latest health advice on the City’s website.

COVID-19 Enforcement

The COVID-19 Enforcement Team is continuing their important work across the city educating residents on the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act orders. Enforcement is ongoing, where necessary. Yesterday, the City received 28 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Police issued seven tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since May 1 to 51 tickets. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 2,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City received no complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Three tickets were issued to non-essential businesses yesterday. Since March 24, 132 tickets and 267 notices have been issued to non-essential businesses. Residents can report non-compliance online though the City’s website.

FCM is now on Instagram

FCM is excited to announce the launch of their Instagram channel. Follow them at @FCMgram. Stay connected with other municipalities, get the latest updates on how communities are responding to COVID-19, and learn how FCM continues to advocate for local governments at the national level.

Harley Owners Group (H.O.G) Ride for Front Line Workers

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please click here for a list of food banks in East Scarborough

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,

Paul