RPTV Weekly News Show Episode 69 (Jan12th to Jan19th) In this weekly news show hosted by RPTV reporters Kedar Ahmed, Fred Alvarado, Gabriel Meissner, and Brook Lahey we present news that impacts on Toronto's Regent Park and the surrounding areas.

Episode 69 features segments on:

0:00 intro
01:11 Report of the Regent Park Safety Network meeting on January 15th, 2024;
06:13 Happy Mom, Happy Children Tutoring Program celebrates Student’s Achievements;
16:29 Sherbourne Health CEO Named to Order of Ontario;
17:44 City of Toronto propose 10.5% property tax hike as part of 2024 budget;
20:58 New Housing Deal: City of Toronto to receive nearly $500 million from the Federal Government to create 11,780 new homes;
29:06 City unveils winter shelter plan for 2023/2024;
43:29 Events and Jobs in Regent Park.

This week’s lead story:
Report of the Regent Park Safety Network community meeting of January 15th, 2024
In a collaborative effort to foster community safety and engagement, the Safety Working Table of the Regent Park Social Development Plan convened for its monthly meeting on January 15th, 2024. The virtual gathering provided a platform for Regent Park residents, safety advocates, Toronto Police officers, and Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) delegates to actively contribute to the dialogue.

The meeting provided an inclusive space for all stakeholders to voice their perspectives and concerns. Residents actively participated, offering valuable insights and suggestions for enhancing safety measures within the community.

Moderated by Regent Park residents Leonard Swartz and Hajia Abubakar, the meeting delved into various aspects of community safety and well-being. One of the central agenda items was an update from Neighbourhood Community Officer Mircea Biga of the Toronto Police, shedding light on the encouraging news of a historic low in homicides and hate crimes in both Regent Park and the surrounding areas.

Constable Mircea Biga presented a comprehensive overview of the current state of safety in Regent Park, emphasizing the positive trend of decreasing crime rates. Residents had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the concerted efforts undertaken by the Toronto Police to ensure the well-being of the community.

The agenda unfolded with crucial updates from key stakeholders. The Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), the City of Toronto, and the office of MP Kristyn Wong-Tam shared invaluable insights, keeping the community informed and engaged. The meeting also witnessed active discussions among the members of the Regent Park Safety Network (RPSN) concerning the recording of these sessions, emphasizing the importance of preserving and disseminating vital information. Furthermore, participants delved into the Community Crisis Response Fund application, underlining a collective commitment to addressing community needs proactively.

Join the Regent Park Safety Network in shaping a secure future at the next meeting on February 19th, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, as Regent Park residents come together to strengthen their commitment to a safe community.

By Fred Alvarado Fred is a community journalist with FOCUS MEDIA ARTS CENTRE