Full Fall 2009 Newsletter
KPRI Fall 2009 Newsletter
Full Fall 2009 Newsletter
Very successful Wine and Cheese party held for Members November 25th at Tony Pistolas on Bloor Street.
Check out the 2008 Wine and Cheese Party Pictures here
The Latest Community Police Liaison Committe (CPLC) Report here
URGENT - HELP Reverse Council Decision To Rezone GREEN SPACE for 10-storey condo at OLD MILL
Council approved rezoning Green Space for intensification of a 10-storey condominium on open space currently used as parking for the Old Mill Inn, which is contrary to Toronto's Official Plan.
Hello Resident,
The Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc. (KPRI), along with numerous residents, ratepayers, historical and heritage associations in Toronto are seeking YOUR HELP in preserving this UNIQUE OPEN SPACE.
On March 4, 2008, by motion of Councillor Milczyn, Council approved to rezone the parking lot from Private Open Space to Sixth Density Residential (R6) and to amend the Toronto Official Plan by deleting lands for the development site from the Green Space System and redesignating these lands from "Parks and Open Space Areas - Natural Area" to "Apartment Neighbourhood" - all to accommodate a 10-storey condominium with a 4-storey underground garage across from the historic Old Mill. This means construction into the floodplain and destruction of the pastoral setting which is unique to this particular heritage site. The Humber is designated a national heritage river, in fact, the plaque designating Canada's 26th Heritage River is located directly across the river from the development site.
City Council was not fully aware before it sat on March 4, 2008 of the full extent of the impact that this 10-storey condominium would have on this site and its effect on historical, cultural, heritage and tourism interests. Staff failed to inform Council that there had been a land exchange deal made in 1984 whereby the Old Mill acquired from the Cities of York and Etobicoke and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority more parkland for surface parking use at a net payment of zero dollars. Restrictive covenants were filed on title to the lands exchanged in the deal and the entire parking area was designated as Private Open Space limited to parking only. The intent of all parties was to prohibit any structure on these lands. The attached one-page summary provides more details. Full documentation and details can be found on KPRI's website at www.kingswayratepayers.com, including KPRI's letter dated April 30, 2008 sent to Ministers.
Although the development was passed at Council, KPRI seeks your help to return this issue to Council to reverse their decision, vote against the passing of the rezoning by-laws, and consider holding a wider community consultation meeting. We therefore ask that you forward the email below to the Mayor and all Councillors by copying and pasting the email addresses and subject line and deleting our message.
We thank you for your interest in preserving a NATIONAL TREASURE in our City and stopping a precedent for development on Green Space city-wide. Please forward this email to any other interested party.
Yours truly,
KPRI Board of Directors
kpri@kpri.ca
PLEASE DELETE THE ABOVE MESSAGE and FORWARD THIS EMAIL TO:
To: Mayor_miller@toronto.ca; councillor_milczyn@toronto.ca; councillor_holyday@toronto.ca; councillor_saundercook@toronto.ca; councillor_ford@toronto.ca; councillor_nunziata@toronto.ca; councillor_lindsay_luby@toronto.ca; councillor_digiorgio@toronto.ca; councillor_grimes@toronto.ca; councillor_hall@toronto.ca; councillor_mammoliti@toronto.ca; councillor_palacio@toronto.ca; councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca; councillor_augimeri@toronto.ca; councillor_carroll@toronto.ca; councillor_cho@toronto.ca; councillor_feldman@toronto.ca; councillor_filion@toronto.ca; councillor_giambrone@toronto.ca; councillor_heaps@toronto.ca; councillor_jenkins@toronto.ca; councillor_kelly@toronto.ca; councillor_mihevc@toronto.ca; councillor_Minnan-Wong@toronto.ca; councillor_ootes@toronto.ca; councillor_pantalone@toronto.ca; councillor_parker@toronto.ca; councillor_perks@toronto.ca; councillor_perruzza@toronto.ca; councillor_rae@toronto.ca; councillor_stintz@toronto.ca; councillor_vaughan@toronto.ca; councillor_davis@toronto.ca; councillor_debaeremaeker@toronto.ca; councillor_delgrande@toronto.ca; councillor_fletcher@toronto.ca; councillor_lee@toronto.ca; councillor_moeser@toronto.ca; councillor_moscoe@toronto.ca; councillor_shiner@toronto.ca; councillor_walker@toronto.ca; councillor_ashton@toronto.ca; councillor_bussin@toronto.ca; councillor_mcconnell@toronto.ca; councillor_thompson@toronto.ca;
CC: kpri@kpri.ca; lbroten.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org; dinovoc-qp@ndp.on.ca; ignatm@parl.gc.ca; nashp@parl.gc.ca;
Subject: EY14.30, 21 Old Mill Road - Official Plan and Zoning Amendment Application, March 4, 2008
Dear Mayor Miller and Councillors,
Re: EY14.30, 21 Old Mill Road - Official Plan and Zoning Amendment Application, March 4, 2008;
Approved rezoning Green Space for intensification of 10-storey condominium contrary to the Official Plan.
I oppose the rezoning of Green Space for intensification that is contrary to the Toronto Official Plan. I ask Council to uphold the policies in its Official Plan that includes protecting, improving and enhancing Green Space. I therefore support the endeavours of the Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc., Toronto Historical Association, Heritage Toronto and the many other residents, ratepayers, historical and heritage groups that oppose the 10-storey condominium development across from the historic Old Mill Inn and along Canada's 26th Heritage River. This is an important site to preserve for our historical, cultural, heritage and tourism interests.
I therefore request that Councillors return Item EY14.30 (21 Old Mill Road - Official Plan and Zoning Amendment Application) before City Council to fully debate the issue with due diligence, reconsider its decision of March 4, 2008 and to consider conducting a wider community consultation meeting for such a drastic impact to this important historical, heritage, cultural and tourist area.
I further request that Councillors vote against the passing of the Zoning by-law that includes rezoning the development site from Private Open Space to Sixth Density Residential (R6) and the passing of the by-law to amend the Toronto Official Plan that includes deleting the lands on the development site from the Green Space System and redesignating the lands from "Parks and Open Space Areas - Natural Area" to "Apartment Neighbourhood".
I am in favour of preserving a national treasure in our City and stopping a precedent for development on Green Space city-wide.
[Resident's name and address].
Swimming Pool Water Disposal
The City of Toronto does not have regulations regarding what is used in your private pool water. To get advice on your pool, it is best that you speak with a swimming pool installer or consultant. For your information, it is advisable that you prevent evaporation of your filled pool by placing a cover on top so that you do not have to refill as often.
The City, however, does have by-laws regarding the disposal of your pool water. Essentially your pool water must not be discharged directly into the storm sewer. Please see bylaw below.
Here is an excerpt from the sewer by-law:
Private swimming pool water. [Amended 2000-10-12 by By-law No. 958-2000;
2002-10-31 by By-law No. 855-2002]
(1) The waste water from a swimming pool or wading pool shall not be
discharged:
(a) Into a storm drainage system;
(b) Such that it flows onto an adjoining property;
(c) Over a valley/ravine wall; and
(d) Such that it may cause erosion or instability of the valley or ravine slope.
(2) The waste water from a swimming pool or wading pool shall either be
transported away by an appropriately licensed waste hauler or be discharged
either by way of a temporary connection to the sanitary sewer or by way of
controlled discharged to the owner's property such that the discharge is at all
times contained within the property until it evaporates or infiltrates into the
ground.
U. Notwithstanding Subsection T, the rain water resting on a tarp which covers a
swimming pool may be discharged to a storm sewer, subject to § 681-4 of this
article.
KPRI Old Mill Summery Document
2800 Bloor Street - Staff Report re 9 storey Seniors and rental unit residence: details and drawings.
Download here (8.3 mb)
Download and watch the Old Mill Road Official Plan and Zoning Amendment Applications Final Report here (Currently only available in Windows Media Player format - 111mb/ Run Time: 69 mins)
Upcoming Ward Consultation Meetings
Please find linked two notices for community meetings being hosted by City Staff over the coming weeks. Your participation is encouraged. If you cannot make it to the meetings, and have questions, please forward them to kpri@kpri.ca or the staff indicated on each of the notices.
1. February 28/08
Reconstruction of Earlington and Thorndale Avenues Open House
For residents to review design plans and meet with project team and have questions answered
2. March 5/08
Community Consultation Meeting - 2800 Bloor Street West
Resulting from Planning Staff's Preliminary Report for a proposed seniors' retirement residence at 2800 Bloor Street, which was on the February 12th agenda of Etobicoke York Community Council, this meeting is the first public meeting as per the Planning Act and required process.
"All Candidates Meeting" for the Etobicoke Lakeshore riding for the Provincial Election this year.
All four candidates have accepted.
Details.
Date: Wednesday October 3rd
Time: 7.30pm to 9.30 pm
Venue: Hall of the Church of the Resurrection, Resurrection Road (Just east of 6 Points, north off Bloor Street).
Terry Reardon
Secretary IRRA
Tel. 416 231 6803
February 10, 2008
City Clerk
Etobicoke York Community Council
Etobicoke Civic Centre
399 The West Mall
Toronto, ON M9C 2Y2
Attention: Ms. Glenda Jagai, Committee Administrator
Re: 21 Old Mill Road, Request to Amend Zoning By-law and Official Plan, Application No. 06 197220 WET 05 OZ
The Board of Directors of the Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc. opposes the application for a 10-storey residential condominium building at the site across from 21 Old Mill Road. If Council approves the application, it would set a precedent encouraging development on parkland and other protected areas across the City. Also, the integrity of the city's new Official Plan would be threatened by an amendment to change the site's designation from "Parks and Open Space Areas - Natural Areas" to "Apartment Neighourhood".
The removal of some 322 trees for the proposed development would have a great impact on the property's environmental features and community. It would change the streetscape from a scenic view of the Humber River valley and ravine to a view of a concrete building.
Old Mill Road is often traveled by pedestrians who enjoy a pleasant walk or jog as they head across the historic narrow stone bridge towards the walking-routes located north-east and south-west of the bridge. The bridge actually joins the lengthy walking route along the Humber River. Having the proposed 84-unit condominium with 119 parking spots for new residents and visitors constructed just meters west of the bridge will significantly increase vehicular traffic and consequently it will create a safety issue. The narrow bridge is a roadway without a sidewalk. Residential intensification is not appropriate for this site.
Yours truly,
Board of Directors,
Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc.
OMB DECISION regarding DUNBAR DEVELOPMENTS
4187 Dundas St. West and 567,569, and 571 Prince Edward Drive
The Ontario Municipal Board decision on the application by Dunbar to construct an eight story condominium at the south-east corner of Dundas Street and Prince Edward Drive on February 6, 2008 has been rendered and approved.The developer appealed the City of Toronto 's refusal of their application. The City was joined at the Board Hearing by the Kings way Residents Against Poor Planning, Inc. to jointly defend City Council's decision and, by extension the recently approved Dundas Avenue Study. The Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc. had tried every avenue available to them to ameliorate the impact of a larger building on the neighborhood and was turned down flat by all parties. As a consequence, the KPRI Inc. chose not to be part of the OMB appeal, but made a contribution to the coffers of KRAPP to assist with appeal expenses. Councilor Milczyn himself politely refused to take the stand at the OMB hearing when he appeared at the hearing.
The Board has approved and upheld the Developer's application in its entirety .It has permitted seven storeys of residential units and an eighth floor with an amenity area,. Also included were the (demolished) three single family dwelling lots into the condo redevelopment. The Board rejected the City's position that if increases in height and density are allowed then the developer should make contributions to area community improvements. The Board has directed the City and the Developer to bring forward a Draft Site Plan and Agreement for the Board's approval within six weeks of the decision date. City Planning Staff will secure an acceptable Site Plan . There is the possibility that the site plan itself may become a matter of contention.
The Board rejected all of the City's and Resident's arguments and evidence but there is always the possibility after a review of the procedures to appeal to the Provincial Court if there were legal errors or mistakes made.
The Kingsway Park Ratepayers will keep you updated.
February 8- 2008.
Decision Documents can be accessed at here or
http://www.omb.gov.on.ca/Decisions/query.html
The case number here is PL070056.
Open Letter from Mr.Steve Garrett.
Dear Councillor Milczyn,
In the matter of the OMB approving Dunpar's appeal on the city's decision on the Dundas / Prince Edward development, you wrote in your email of February 8:
Another aspect of the Board's decision which the community may find troubling is the Board's reference to evidence it heard that ". another Kings way neighborhood association does not object to the proposal." The Board's perception that the community may not be united in its view on this application certainly did not help the case.
It is clear to anyone that has been following this issue that you are referring to KPRI. While not a member of KPRI, I did support their earlier position in the matter of the Dunpar developments - accept a compromise with Dunpar and avoid the OMB at all cost. Given the historical behaviour of the OMB, this was a perfectly reasonable position. When the majority went against them and the compromise was rejected, KPRI accepted this and made it clear that they were unequivocally opposed to the development that Dunpar was fighting for. I can easily pull up the emails in which they stated this position but I'm sure you have them as well. Their logic has proved correct and if anything my advice to you would be to take the high road and acknowledge this fact. As a voter, one looks for signs of good character in their elected representatives. I must say that it looks bad on you when you take cheap shots at a group of concerned committed volunteers who do not deserve to be blamed in such a dishonest and backhanded way. You should be ashamed of yourself.
Sincerely,
-Steve Garrett
2121 Lakeshore Blvd. W Unit 1414
home: 416 259 2121
Toronto Ontario M8V 4E9
cell: 416 319 4784
steve.garrett@gmail.com
Councillor Milczyn wrote:
OMB DECISION
DUNBAR DEVELOPMENTS
4187 Dundas Street West and 567,569, and 571 Prince Edward Drive
The Ontario Municipal Board issued its decision on the application by Dunbar to construct an eight storey condominium at the south-east corner of Dundas Street and Prince Edward Drive on February 6, 2008.
The developer appealed the City of Toronto's refusal of their application. The City was joined at the Board Hearing by the Kings way Residents Against Poor Planning, Inc. to jointly defend City Council's decision and, by extension the recently approved Dundas Avenue Study.
The Board upheld the Developer's appeal and approved the application in its entirety. Namely it allowed for seven storeys of residential units and an eighth floor with an amenity area, it also allowed for the inclusion of the (demolished) three single family dwelling lots into the condo redevelopment. The Board also rejected the City's position that if increases in height and density are allowed then the developer must make a contribution to community improvements in the area. The Board also directed the City and the Developer to bring forward a Draft Site Plan and Agreement for the Board's approval within six weeks of the decision date. City Planning Staff will take the appropriate steps to secure an acceptable Site Plan however this may also become a matter of contention.
The Board rejected all of the City's and Resident's arguments and evidence. Under normal circumstances this would be extremely disappointing however the reasoning for the decision raises grave concerns. The City and the Residents will be reviewing the Decision very carefully to determine whether there are grounds for appeal to the Courts. This avenue is available if there are deemed to be errors in law.
I am extremely disappointed by the Decision. I believe it is wrong, and I continue to support the thousands of residents of the Kings way who fought this application, and the City Planning Staff who also did not support this proposal. I pressed for City legal representation at the OMB, to attempt to have the heights and massing reduced. I still believe this is a battle worth waging.
I met yesterday with a representative of the Resident's group to discuss next steps. If there are viable grounds to appeal this further I will support taking those steps. I will rely on our Solicitor's advice in this regard.
The decision is very troubling in that the Board accepted the Developer's approach of cherry picking through the old Etobicoke Official Plan, the new Official Plan, and the new Zoning By-law. Furthermore the Board in rejecting the City's and Resident's arguments and evidence referred to other developments well outside this area. This certainly runs counter to the Board's assertion that there is no such thing as a precedent before the Board. Some of the other projects referred to are in a completely different context and the Board's understanding of those projects appears to be limited or incorrect.
Another aspect of the Board's decision which the community may find troubling is the Board's reference to evidence it heard that ". another Kings way neighborhood association does not object to the proposal." The Board's perception that the community may not be united in its view on this application certainly did not help the case.
I will continue to keep you apprized of any additional information or steps that will be taken on this issue. If you would like to read the OMB decision I will have it posted to my website, www.petermilczyn.com by early next week.
Councillor Peter Milczyn
Ward Five, Etobicoke-Lakeshore
Toronto City Hall
100 Queen Street West, Suite C-51
Toronto, Ontario
P: 416-392-4040
F: 416-392-4127
councillor_milczyn@toronto.ca
www.petermilczyn.com
The Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc. ( KPRI) would like to advise all residents of an upcoming application & meeting regarding an application for new development on the parking lot opposite the Old Mill: this application will require an official amendment as well as a zoning amendment. The current land use does not permit any building whatsoever on the land.
Reasons for Application
An Official Plan Amendment is required as the subject lands are located within the Green Space System, are designated Parks and Open Space Areas – Natural Areas and are located partly within (below) the top-of-bank of the valley. The policies of the Official Plan do not permit residential development in this location. The site specific permission in the Plan limits the land use to a parking lot.
To see updates on the Ontario Municipal Board Case pertaining to Dunpar Development application for Prince Edward and Dundas Streets, please click here and enter case # is:
PL070056
Have a look at the details regarding municipal taxes by clicking here
KPRI PRESS RELEASE
The decision by City Council to proceed to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) over Dunpar Developments Inc.'s application for a 10 storey condominium at the south-east corner of Prince Edward and Dundas was confirmed at City Council on April 24, 2007 when Councilors voted 27 to 9 to reverse the decision of Community Council made on March 27th.The City now will test the Dundas Street West Avenues Study at the OMB. As ratepayers, we have to hope that the City will mount a defense so vigorous as to re-instill respect and compliance by everyone for the laws that govern land redevelopment. Adhering to limitations set by Avenues studies and stopping the endless clamor for "just 5% more - just 13% more" both in residential and commercial developments would go along way towards reassuring every property owner that the development next door will not destroy their peaceful enjoyment of the neighbourhood. We will look to Councilor Peter Milczyn and the legal department of the City of Toronto to draft a legal mechanism to prevent the accumulation of residential property by commercial interests for rezoning-blockbusting purposes. THIS SHOULD BECOME PART OF THE PLATFORM FOR MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS City wide UNTIL RESOLVED. The KPRI Board of Directors will now revoke, as of April 25th, the letter dated March 12,2007 sent to Dunpar that was an earnest request to consider a 7 storey condominium so as to avoid an OMB hearing. This letter represented the Director's views only - not that of the membership. Mediation is now no longer an option. The KPRI will observe the developments as the OMB case proceeds and will continue to keep the membership updated. Everything that can be done to preserve ALL neighborhoods city wide from over-development is an exceedingly good thing. We wish the City and the Kingsway District a swift and binding victory.
The Directors
KPRI
The Red Door Group
The Red Door group assists families dislocated from their homes through domestic violence, and refugees who are trying to get on their feet. This agency will take your gently used furniture,dishes, non perishable foodstuffs, carpets, and appliances (they will come and pick them up even), books and modern CDs, clothes, boots and shoes and gift items in any season to help these families get back on their feet. If you don't have time for a garage sale, this is the number to call: 416-423-0310 NATASHA (to drop off goods) and 416-915-5671 for furniture pickup: ask for IRENE. Some very nice people will be most grateful for your assistance.
The Community Police Liaison Committee Report
The 22 Division, Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) consists of representatives from the community, business and police who live or work in 22 Division. It is dedicated to increasing safety and security for the public by identifying community and policing concerns. We have a voice in local policing initiatives and are part of the decision making process. Currently our CPLC holds our regular monthly meetings at IKEA, 1475 The Queensway; Visitors are welcome to attend these meetings. Elizabeth Flavelle, who has just retired from the KPRI Board, remains the KPRI representative on the CPLC.
As Your KPRI Representative
In my role as Chair of the Education Committee, CPLC, I invited the councillors who represent the different ridings in 22 Division to attend the June CPLC meeting and discuss what they are doing to help make Toronto a safer place. In attendance were: Doug Holyday and Peter Milchyn. Represented by their staff, were Gloria Lindsy-Luby and Mark Grimes. It was a lively and informative 45 minute discussion.
In July, my husband, David Windeyer, and I were volunteers at the 2006 National Conference of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates (FBINAA). This was the first time this Annual Training Conference was held outside the United States. We staffed the Toronto Information booth for several days during which we met many of the 2000 delegates and their spouses as well as the 500 other volunteers.
A New Superintendent for 22 Division
After 30 years of service, Superintendent Ed Hoey has retired from the Toronto Police Service (TPS). He has been replaced by Superintendent Tom McIlhone in May 2006
Tom started his career in the TPS as a cadet for the Toronto Police Service at 17 years of age, and is now in his 30 th year of service.
He has held several positions, including Detective, the Officer in charge of the Major Crime Unit, Staff Sergeant of the Community Response Unit and Inspector responsible for guns and violence in the Jane and Finch area. Chief Blair appointed Tom to initiate T.A.V.I.S., (Toronto Anti-Violence Intervention Strategy) dealing on gun violence for the Toronto Police Service.
A very warm welcome. We look forward to working with you.
Two examples of Our Police Making Etobicoke a Safer Community
Schools
The Service launched the Back to School Campaign on September 5th highlighting all offences in and around school zones committed by motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Officers will also concentrate their efforts on minimizing violence in and around schools and areas where youth tend to congregate and will ensure
Appropriate resources are focused on these problems throughout the entire school year. Traffic safety and victimization of youth are additional priorities
Seized Firearms and Drugs
During the spring of 2006, 22 Division Street Violence Task Force and 22 Division Community Response Unit began an investigation into street-level drug dealers and gun possessors operating in the southern Etobicoke area.
With the assistance of Toronto West Drug Squad, a warrant was executed in the Lawrence Avenue West/Keele Street area.
The warrant resulted in the seizure of 800 grams of cocaine, 11 grams of ecstasy, marijuana, weigh scales, 9 mm pistol, .45 cal pistol, .25 cal pistol and approximately$2,000. The seized drugs had an estimated street value of $85,000 . Seven people face over 70 weapon and drug-related charges.
These last two items were paraphrased from theTPS August Bulletin. Persons wishing to receive this bulletin via the internet may contact the author: Ted Mands, PC 6019, (416) 808-2100, ted.mands@torontopolice.on.ca
Elizabeth Flavelle
By: Armand G.R. Conant, B.Eng., LL.B., D.E.S.S. (Sorbonne)
Title insurance is a unique type of insurance that protects your ownership or title for as long as you own your home against losses incurred as a result of undetected, unpredictable title defects, such as liens and encumbrances (except if excepted in the policy), forgery, fraud and missing heirs. It is completely different than property or casualty home insurance.
A policy is usually acquired at the time of purchasing the property or re-financing, however, it can be purchased at any time. There is a one-time premium (for residential properties up to $500,000 in value - premium is usually in the range of $250 - $300. Above $500,000 then a sliding scale applies)
Historically the lawyer certified that you had good clear title to the property (called an opinion on title). The lawyer's opinion was, of course, based on searches, which are dependent on the availability and accuracy of the public records. This means that there still could be some risks. If it turned out that the lawyer was negligent and a problem arose (e.g. a defect on title) then the owner would make a claim against the lawyer, who would respond accordingly. This could be a simple process to resolve or end up in protracted litigation.
Title insurance is designed to avoid this. Although a lawyer is still used for transactions, the searches are reduced and no opinion on title is given as you are covered by the policy. If an insured problem arises then the insurer looks after it. Also, sometimes a lender will require a relatively up-to-date survey of your property. If one does not exist then it could cost $1200 – $1,500 to get one. However, if title insurance is acquired, then the lender waives this requirement.
Many have heard about the rise in fraud with respect to real estate. This typically takes two forms: (a) The fraudster borrows money in your name and puts a mortgage on your home; and (b) The fraudster actually transfers title of the property to a fictitious person and then borrows money while registering a mortgage. In both cases, by the time you discover the fraud, the fraudster is long gone with the money.
While the actual number or percentage of homes that have suffered this fraud is very small, there is doubt that it is on the rise. It more often is perpetrated against homes with no mortgage or an old one. However, in both cases title insurance would protect you and correct the problem. You can purchase title insurance at any time and not just at the time of purchasing or re-financing.
There are many title insurance companies and the policies are similar, however, always seek legal advice on whether you wish to purchase it and if so with which insurer. Remember that title insurance is optional. You can decide not to purchase it and have the lawyer give the traditional opinion as to title. In fact, our Law Society requires that we explain both systems to our clients so that they can make an informed decision.
Armand Conant is a lawyer in the Toronto office of the full service law firm of Maclaren, Corlett LLP and specializes in real estate, condominium and business law and can be reached at 416-361-3094.This is our tenth year at All Saints' Kingsway and in that time a wonderful sense of community has developed - the guests really appreciate what we provide and many have become regular visitors.
We are a volunteer organisation and every Friday night from November to April we help an average of over 75 of the most disadvantaged and marginalized people in our society - people who are very poor and many of whom are unable to feed themselves for the whole week; people who have no home of their own and may be on the streets throughout the day. For 21 of the coldest weeks of the year we provide our guests with food, warmth and shelter. By the way the food, which is prepared by 18 different churches and groups, is truly excellent, so good in fact that there is rarely any left over - if the guests can't eat it all then the volunteers surely will!
Food is an integral part of what we do but it is not the only part.
We also provide clothes for our guests and an opportunity for them to socialize with each other and the volunteers who help out on a Friday night. It is a fantastic feeling to see our guests talking in small groups, watching a film, listening to the musical entertainment or joining in at the art table. It's very much like a Friday night social club.
This opportunity to get together in circumstances which perhaps many of us take for granted has a tremendous impact on our guests, helping them to believe in themselves and perhaps regain some of their lost self confidence.
This is particularly true of the art program where over the years some remarkable work has been produced - much of which is now hanging in the homes of people in and around the Kingsway as a result of our Easter art sale. All the money raised goes directly to the artists. The Art table provides a unique opportunity for our guests to grow and to receive positive encouragement. The artists have become good friends among themselves and are very supportive of each other and each different view of expression. It has changed their outlook on life.
Everything that we do is important but arguably the most important part of what we do is to offer a bed for the night. We can only do this for a limited number of guests - a maximum of 20 - but the fact that we are able to help in this way is for many of us the reason why we became involved in the program in the first place. That's certainly true in my case. What better way to help your fellow citizens than to be able to offer them, food warmth and a bed for the night. I know that the offer of a bed is really appreciated - even though it may only be a mattress on the floor of the auditorium - because the alternative of sleeping rough in the dead of winter with temperatures of -30°C or worse, is more than most of us could contemplate.
None of what we do could be achieved without the volunteers that support the program. Set-up, hosting, intake, kitchen supervision, overnight supervision, clear-up, food buying, soup making, dinner preparation, snacks, drinks, breakfast and medical care - all these and more are what it takes to run a successful program and the level of support we receive is just incredible.
In addition to volunteers we also need money. The hot meals and packed lunches are largely self-funded by the groups that provide them, but we still need money for clothing, subway tokens, snacks, breakfast, art supplies and cleaning supplies. We receive funding from many sources including the Kingsway Business Improvement Association (BIA) Choral concerts, donations from local churches and groups and private donations.
This is the 5 th year that the Kingsway BIA has supported the OOTC through a Choral concert. Not only is this a great way to start off the Christmas season, it is also a wonderful way for the Kingsway to support its own local community; and I believe that after so many years of operation that the OOTC is now fully accepted as a key part of the Kingsway community life.
The Kingsway BIA fully covers the cost of this concert ensuring that every cent raised through the goodwill offering goes to supporting OOTC.
In addition we also receive generous financial support from a number of local churches and individuals for which we are extremely grateful.
And then there's the countless cookies, candies, popcorn, soaps and shampoos, beverages, fresh fruit, clothing, chocolate, toothbrushes and toothpaste which are donated throughout the season all of which help maintain the family atmosphere that we try so hard to create.
Out of the Cold at All Saints' Anglican church is a wonderful outreach activity, we are constantly blessed by the support of many individuals, groups and organizations, and we make a real difference in the community.
We start the shelter November 17 and usually
start collecting a couple of weeks beforehand. If you can hold your
items until then and ask other people to do that as well we will contact the KPRI
in early November and make arrangements for you to drop the items off
at All Saints.
Towels, soaps, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, are all good...
Coats, pullovers, pants, shoes are all good - larger sizes of clothes
are best...We accept mens and womens clothes as we get both on Friday nights.
We suggest that pillows, blankets (we use special ones)and sheets (which
we don't use) could go to Goodwill or the Stonegate Community shop down
off Berry Road in the plaza.
David Jenkins, Coordinator
Out of the Cold at All Saints' Kingsway
If you want to know more about the program, make a donation or enquire about volunteering
Please contact me on 416 233 1125 or email me at davejen@nortel.com
BE INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY - SUPPORT KPRI
What is the Kingsway Park Ratepayers Inc. (KPRI)?
KPRI is a volunteer organization established some 60 years ago to speak on behalf of the community to City Councillors, City Staff and others on local issues that best preserve and advance our interests in the community .
Why become a member of KPRI?
A nominal membership fee of $20.00 per annum or $90.00 for 5 years provides you with
How to become a member of KPRI?
Membership registration forms are available on line at http://www.kingswayratepayers.com/or by email request to mailto:kpri@sympatico.ca.
What are some of KPRI's accomplishments for the community?