Hello <<First Name>>,
I'd like to invite you to an important community meeting I am holding virtually this evening. It's on the topic of vaccination and I hope you can join us. As vaccination supply starts to trickle into our community, there is still much work to be done. I know there is still confusion and disappointment with the government's approach, so I wanted to provide an opportunity for individuals like you to share your thoughts and ideas or ask questions about the rollout. Our event will begin promptly at 6:00PM tonight, and you can join the discussion here:
Challenges still exist with the rollout. We've all seen the images of long lines and heard the frustrations with the provincial booking system. There is still an opportunity to chart a path that serves our community and gets vaccines in the arms of everyone who wants them. The sooner we can correct these issues, the sooner we can extricate ourselves from the devestating lockdowns imposed by the government. We owe it to our community, frontline heroes, and struggling small businesses to get this right, and I know the only way we can achieve this is to involve the community in the discussion.
I've placed a great deal of effort into addressing the disparities faced by our community, only be turned away by the government. They have been too slow to respond to a variety of issues during this pandemic. One of those issues is the need for a permanent vaccine location here in our community. Too many people are having to choose between long line-ups or longer commutes just to get access to the vaccine. As an identified hotspot, this must change. I look forward to your participation this evening, and your support as we work to acquire the resources our community deserves.
Remote Learning:
The province recently announced plans for permanent online learning in Ontario in an attempt to set up a "new normal" within our education system. I'm disappointed that the government has placed its focus on cost-saving measures rather than invest in safe schools and in-person instruction that we know will allow our children to thrive. Online learning hasn't worked for most families, and I know from the parents that I speak to, that everyone is eager for the day when students, teachers and staff can return to their school communities. Investments should be directed to support this goal, and not to limit the number of teachers and resources available to our schools.
Paid Sick Days:
This week, the government passed on another opportunity to move swiftly to institute the "Stay Home if You Are Sick Act". A robust sick leave plan that would seriously curb workplace infections. The government meagre 3-day plan was met with universal disappointment, including from the Science Table's Dr. Adalsteinn Brown, who acknowledged that the government's plan will not do enough to curb infections. I will continue to support the "Stay Home if You Are Sick Act", which guarantees permanent paid sick days plus 14 government-funded paid sick days during a pandemic or infectious disease emergency.
Small Business Grants:
Small businesses continue to struggle in our community, and I am hearing from more and more of them expressing disappointment with the government small business grant program. Many haven't heard back from the Ministry concerning their applications, and others are being declined, often for illegitimate reasons. This government has promised to have the backs of small business owners, but have fallen far short of that commitment. The program is full of barriers and has simply added more stress to the lives of anxious business owners in York South—Weston. If you are encountering a similar situation, please reach out to my office with the details of your case, and we will work to get answers from the Ministry.
Upcoming Local Vaccination Opportunities
*Note: In all scenarios, you are asked to bring your OHIP cards if you have one, but it is NOT required. Proof of residence is required (Driver's License, Hydro Bill etc.). All individuals who live or work in hotspot postal codes will be able to book vaccination appointments through the provinces central booking system for individuals 18+.
M6N - St. Joseph’s Health Centre and West Park Healthcare Centre continue to take appointments for vaccination. To register at St. Joseph's, click HERE. To register at West Park Healthcare Centre, click HERE.
New pop-up clinics have been announced for residents and workers at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School (23 George Street) Friday, May 7th (noon to 9PM) and Saturday, May 8th (10AM to 7:00PM). No appointment required but vaccines are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Community Place Hub at 1765 Weston Road is accepting walk-ins for vaccination this week for 18+ residents. Drop-in Thursday or Friday (1:30PM to 8:00PM) or Saturday (10:30AM to 5:00PM) to get vaccinated while supplies last.
M6M - West Park Healthcare Centre continue to take appointments for vaccination. To register, click HERE.
New pop-up clinics have been announced for residents and workers at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School (23 George Street) Friday, May 7th (noon to 9PM) and Saturday, May 8th (10AM to 7:00PM). No appointment required but vaccines are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Community Place Hub at 1765 Weston Road is accepting walk-ins for vaccination this week for 18+ residents. Drop-in Thursday or Friday (1:30PM to 8:00PM) or Saturday (10:30AM to 5:00PM) to get vaccinated while supplies last.
Downview Arena is hosting pop-up vaccination clinics Friday through Sunday from 9:00AM until vaccine supply runs out. No appointment required and open to workers from the community as well.
M9N - West Park Healthcare Centre continue to take appointments for vaccination. To register, click HERE.
New pop-up clinics have been announced for residents and workers at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School (23 George Street) Friday, May 7th (noon to 9PM) and Saturday, May 8th (10AM to 7:00PM). No appointment required but vaccines are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Community Place Hub at 1765 Weston Road is accepting walk-ins for vaccination this week for 18+ residents. Drop-in Thursday or Friday (1:30PM to 8:00PM) or Saturday (10:30AM to 5:00PM) to get vaccinated while supplies last.
Downview Arena is hosting pop-up vaccination clinics Friday through Sunday from 9:00AM until vaccine supply runs out. No appointment required and open to workers from the community as well.
M6L - Downview Arena is hosting pop-up vaccination clinics Friday through Sunday from 9:00AM until vaccine supply runs out. No appointment required and open to workers from the community as well.
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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Pharmacy Locations for AstraZeneca Vaccine Pilot Program (Ages 40 & over)
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Shoppers Drug Mart
620 Keele St
416-766-3095
Real Canadian Superstore Pharmacy
2549 Weston Rd
416-246-9192
Shoppers Drug Mart
2343 Eglinton Ave W
416-651-7111
Walmart Pharmacy
2525 St Clair Ave W
416-763-1867
Pharmasave Eagle Manor
1901 Weston Road
416-241-1115
Drug Store Pharmacy
25 Photography Drive
416-763-1502
Weston Jane Pharmacy
1292 Weston Road
647-344-9111
Shoppers Drug Mart
1533 Jane Street
(416) 248-5424
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The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy
2600 Eglinton Ave W
416-651-6511
Friendly Care West King Pharmacy
2077 Weston Rd
416-248-4485
Weston Jane Pharmacy
1292 Weston Rd
647-344-9111
Keele-Ingram Pharmacy
2221 Keele St
416-247-8618
Whole Health Pharmacy
1575 Jane Street, Unit 7
416-245-2273
Walmart Pharmacy
1305 Lawrence Avenue West
416-249-8487
Demarco Pharmacy
2394 Keele St
416-244-5888
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MPP Hassan visiting the community vaccination pop-up at George Harvey Collegiate Institute.
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MPP Hassan visited the pop-up vaccination clinic at Community Place Hub.
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News Release
York South—Weston MPP to hold emergency meeting on vaccine access
York South–Weston – MPP Faisal Hassan (York South–Weston) will host an emergency community meeting Thursday to address issues and questions from constituents regarding local access to vaccinations.
Thursday, May 6
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom
https://zoom.us/j/99724940721?pwd=K0NVQlRqZjRYOU14V3pwUXJiZGh2UT09
Meeting ID: 997 2494 0721
Passcode: 928501
**Open to media**
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Unison Health & Community Services is offering support and resources for individuals dealing with a positive COVID-19 test result. For help with food, isolation space or other supports, call 416-787-1661 ext. 3300 between Monday and Friday from 9am to 5pm.
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Not sure how to book your vaccine appointment? 55 years of age or older living in Toronto? York West Active Living Centre can help to book your appointment. Call 416-245-4395 x226. Spanish speakers can dial extensions 222, and Italian speakers can call extension 233 for service in their native language.
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Shakespeare in Action continues to deliver innovative, virtual programming in the community. For its next round, starting May 13, Improv for Kids (ages 7-11) runs every Thursday from 4:30PM to 5:30PM. Starting May 10th, Puppetry Level Up (ages 9-14) runs every Monday from 4:30PM to 5:30PM.
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Spelling Bee of Canada is hosting a Short Essay contest inviting youth 6-14 to submit a short essay on the topic "How do you stay connected with friends, family and loved ones during the pandemic?". The submission deadline is Sept. 15 and word counts are listed in the attached image. Entries will be judged on content, style and writing skills and a cash prize winner will be announced Dec. 12. To enter, email details of your entry including name, address and phone number to education@spellingbeeofcanada.ca
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Starting as early as Thursday April 29 and lasting for approximately one month, crews will be reinstating sidewalks and curbs, including electrical works and permanent traffic signals, at Eglinton Ave W and Municipal Dr. Traffic on Eglinton will be reduced to one lane in either direction. Left turns onto Municipal Dr will be restricted for traffic travelling eastbound. All pedestrian routes will remain the same.
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The past year has added a lot of stress to many families. Making it even harder to find peace and cooperation. This workshop will give you effective tools and ways of thinking to create deeper connection and teamwork in your family. The workshop is on May 19, 2021, 7:00PM - 9:00PM. For more information or to register, visit www.meaningfulideas.com
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Toronto Public Library continues to host a variety of free, virtual programs for the whole community. Children's programs, adult programs, and virtual book clubs are just some of the exciting options available. Also, Mount Dennis branch has announced expanded hours. They will now serve the community from 9:00AM-8:30PM Monday to Friday, and 9:00AM-5:00PM on Saturdays.
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HIRING EVENT: Links2Care provides care and community services, and is hiring permanent part-time positions for Etobicoke, Mississauga, Georgetown. They are hosting a virtual hiring event with support of COSTI for personal support workers, community support workers and registered ECE's on Tuesday, May 18 from 2:00PM to 3:30PM. Virtual interviews are by appointment only. To register, call 416-588-2240 or click HERE.
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York West Active Living Centre is hosting an important workshop free for individuals 55+ on Sunday, May 16 from 2PM to 4PM. This Introduction to Meditation Workshop is for older adults with limited or no meditation experience who are interested in learning several different types of meditation techniques.
To register contact Suzanne at suzanne@ywalc.ca or 416-245-4395 ext 224.
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TDSB has resumed consultations on the pupil accommodation review that involves George Harvey CI and York Memorial CI. A pupil accommodation review is a public consultation process that school boards conduct to determine the future of a group of schools. To provide feedback on the future of these schools, fill out the survey HERE.
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The Canadian Multifaith Federation is hiring. 4 temporary part-time Multiculturalism Project Officer positions will be available starting June 21st. For further detail on the positions and information on how to apply, clicked HERE [PDF].
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The Solace Sunrise Walk is an annual Suicide and Awareness event which takes a simple 5km walk and turns into a powerful community movement. Every cent raised will go directly towards running a direct, barrier and stigma free suicide prevention and awareness service in Canada. To join their efforts on June 5th, register HERE.
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