Hello <<First Name>>,
Today's concerning case count reminds us that COVID-19 is still with us. As we’ve shown before, there are steps we can take as individuals to contains the spread. Rigorous handwashing, social distancing, mask-wearing in public spaces and when social distancing is not possible. This is also a good time to remind our friends and family under the age of 40 that they are not immune, and can contribute to community spread, or harm a loved one.
I know parents are concerned about what this means for the re-opening of schools. This week, children across York South—Weston are returning to class. Many will return to classes that are too full, and make it difficult to socially distance. Teachers and staff are doing the best they can in a very difficult situation, and parents are being patient dealing with this new environment. You’ve all invested so much for the wellbeing of our students, and I appreciate your efforts.
I share the distrust many parents have expressed with the current plan, and have actively engaged with parents and educators across our community. I will continue to work with you to bring about the safest possible school year we can deliver under these circumstances. This includes additional investments in our schools as well as resources to provide convenient and accessible local testing here in York South—Weston. As always I encourage you to reach out with your concerns as your little ones return to class or login for this upcoming school year.
Pop-up Testing:
If you fear you may have come in contact with someone with COVID-19 or are exhibiting symptoms, please visit the local COVID-19 testing pop-op Tomorrow from 1:00pm to 6:00pm. No appointment is necessary, and there is no cost to get tested. It will take place at 30 Falstaff Avenue, outside by the park gazebo. Local testing is an important step for public health and expanded local testing will also help prevent outbreaks in our local schools. I will continue to work with local officials on deploying more of these types of resources to our community.
Tracking Outbreaks in Schools:
The government has prepared a website to report and track outbreaks of COVID-19 in schools in Ontario. In addition to schools, the site will also track cases in Childcare centres and agencies, where a disturbing 58 cases have already been confirmed. In addition to the date, the site also provides information to parents on what to do in the event their child's school experiences an outbreak of COVID-19. To visit the site, click HERE.
As always, my office is here to help. Please call at 416-243-7984, or email us at fhassan-co@ndp.on.ca.
Take care, wear your mask, and wash your hands.
Best Regards,
Faisal Hassan
Member of Provincial Parliament
York South—Weston
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News Release
MPP Faisal Hassan’s statement on shooting in Jane Falstaff community
TORONTO — Faisal Hassan, MPP for York South–Weston, released the following statement concerning the recent shooting in the Jane Falstaff community:
“Today, I visited residents and community members in the Jane Falstaff community, who have endured three shootings this month. Residents in my riding have been very clear about what they need to be safe in their community, and how government on all levels can help end the violence.
At a community meeting this time last year, residents called for dedicated TCH special constables onsite overnight, improved lighting, high-quality cameras that can read license plates and better capture faces, and regular community safety meetings to update the community.
In light of recent events, we are also requesting gating at both entrances to the community, with TCH special constables stationed there. Community members have also been clear that investments in young people in the form of jobs and programs at the local community centre are a critical part of addressing the root causes of violence. That is why I have personally raised these issues with Toronto Police Services 12 Division and Toronto Community Housing.
People in York South–Weston, and across our city and province, deserve to feel safe and secure in their homes and their community. That’s why we have to address the problem of gun violence from all angles — from investing in the services folks count on to addressing root causes like poverty, to a gun and ammunition ban in crowded cities.”
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MPP Faisal Hassan tables petition on behalf of the Falstaff community
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The Youth Job Connection (YJC) program serves youth aged 15-29 experiencing multiple barriers to
employment. Eligible participants will be entitled to paid training and job placements. To learn more, visit www.costi.org or email employ@costi.org
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The Syme 55+ Seniors' Centre continues to serve the community with a weekly food bank in partnership with Syme Woolner Neighbourhood and Family Centre and the Daily Bread Food Bank.
Join them every Wednesday from 2:00pm-4:00pm at 33 Pritchard Avenue. For more information, phone 416-766-0388 or email syme55@syme55.com
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Fall program registration for the York West Active Living Centre is open. Modified in-person programming returns with safety protocols in place and virtual programming continues as well. For a program schedule, click HERE.
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The Rustic Neighbourhood Group is hosting a Family Music Day. Join them on Saturday, September 19 from 6:00-8:30 for this free live event at Maple Leaf Park. Please bring your own chairs or blankets. Organizers will be accepting donations for Humber River Hospital. Pre-registration is preferred at rusticmassage@gmail.com
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TTC customers can have their say on service options for the new RapidTO bus-only corridors along Jane Street. The TTC has developed concepts for bus routes and wants to hear from those who use the routes on a regular basis. Visit www.ttc.ca/rapidto to fill out a survey and for more information.
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This June, the Honourable Ted Arnott announced the launch of nominations for Ontario’s first Poet Laureate. Applications for the position are being accepted through September 15th, 2020. Following the acceptance of nominations, a selection panel will prepare a short list of the nominees by December and announce a chosen nominee by February, 2021. Information about the Poet Laureate and the nomination process is available at the Legislative Assembly’s web site at ola.org/poet-laureate
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