Hello <<First Name>>,
This week, I've returned to Queen's Park to resume legislative duties. My colleagues and I continue to discuss the devastating report from the Long Term Care Commission that was released last week. The understaffed chaos and the inhumane conditions highlighted in the report still resonate as we move to assure that this never happens in our province again. I'm very thankful to the witnesses who stepped forward to testify during the commission and share their experiences. The testimony was heart-wrenching and must have been very difficult to reflect on so soon after the tragedy we experienced in our Province. It was also very necessary. The report was clear about the mistakes and missed opportunities. It's left to us to act now and make the necessary changes to ensure that this never happens again.
The underfunded and neglected system we have today is the direct result of privatization and cuts instituted by governments for decades, but the choices of Premier Ford exacerbated the decline we are seeing in senior care. They've removed independent inspections in homes and left private facilities to inspect themselves. According to the report, when the pandemic hit, the government had no plan to protect elders in long-term care, resulting in the devastation that is now all too familiar. The Premier's promised iron ring never materialized when the second wave struck, and we still see Personal Support Workers working off their feet, without assurances for a liveable wage.
I know we can do better. Sorrow is not enough. The seniors and affected families members deserve accountability and a plan that prevents a tragedy like this from happening in the future. We've called for an independent seniors’ advocate within the government to monitor issues that concern seniors, like long-term care. We also want to help seniors stay in their homes as long as possible, and support independent living. We need to undo the privatization of LTC homes and remove the incentives to cut corners on caring for our elders. We need more long-term care homes that are small enough to allow for intimate communities. We need to finally honour the profession of Personal Support Workers by paying them decent living wages and supporting them with additional staff to deliver on a minimum of 4-hours of hands-on care. No more excuses.
Child Care:
Parents of young children are well aware of the challenges in accessing quality, affordable child care in Ontario. In fact, Ontario is home to the highest costs for childcare in the country. Previous governments have promised to address this problem, reverting to privatization and fee increases to support an underfunded system. This pandemic has highlighted the importance of this issue and the need to work urgently with Ottawa to implement $10 per day, universal, high-quality not-for-profit care. A plan that puts our children and talented Early Childhood Educators front and centre.
Auto Insurance Motion:
Today I put forward the following motion at the legislature. The issue of postal code discrimination has unfairly impacted our community for too long:
"That in the opinion of this House, the Ford government should take steps to reduce the high costs of auto insurance in the Greater Toronto Area by ending postal code discrimination and mandating a COVID-19 rebate and reduction in rates to reflect data on lower automobile usage and lower rates of collisions during the pandemic."
Nurses Week:
For the second year in a row, we are celebrating Nursing Week in the midst of a global pandemic. And once again, the world is witnessing the strength and resilience of nurses in the face of the largest public health crisis in a generation. When the pandemic began, nurses marched to the frontline, placing themselves, and their loved ones, in great peril. In the months that followed, the work has been difficult, and the emotional impacts have been all too real. It’s my sincere hope that you find some time to care for your own wellbeing. Know that our community respects and appreciates your contributions. Thank you for your compassion and your courage as we work to defeat COVID-19.
St. Fidelis Vaccine Clinic:
Thank you to the organizers and volunteers of today's vaccination clinic at St. Fidelis Catholic Church. The community has done great work in support of vaccination efforts, including Sandra, one of the organizers, who rightfully identified that "it takes a village" to support community efforts such as these. Thank you to the St. Fidelis Golden Age group for the continued support of the vaccination clinics as well.
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. 18+ individuals who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes are eligible.
Humber River Hospital continues to host pop-up vaccination clinics at Downsview Arena from 9AM until supplies last. Open individuals 18+ who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes. No appointment required.
Women's College Hospital will be hosting vaccination clinics for individuals 18+ who live or work in the community at General Mercer Public School (30 Turnberry ave.). No registration required, but residents are asked to use the entrance on Rowntree Avenue. Dates are:
- Tuesday, May 11 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
M6M - West Park Healthcare Centre continue to take appointments for vaccination. 18+ individuals who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes are eligible. To register, click HERE.
Humber River Hospital continues to host pop-up vaccination clinics at Downsview Arena from 9AM until supplies last. Open individuals 18+ who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes. No appointment required.
Women's College Hospital will be hosting vaccination clinics for individuals 18+ who live or work in the community at General Mercer Public School (30 Turnberry ave.). No registration required, but residents are asked to use the entrance on Rowntree Avenue. Dates are:
- Tuesday, May 11 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
M9N - West Park Healthcare Centre continue to take appointments for vaccination. 18+ individuals who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes are eligible. To register, click HERE.
Humber River Hospital continues to host pop-up vaccination clinics at Downsview Arena from 9AM until supplies last. Open individuals 18+ who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes. No appointment required.
Women's College Hospital will be hosting vaccination clinics for individuals 18+ who live or work in the community at General Mercer Public School (30 Turnberry ave.). No registration required, but residents are asked to use the entrance on Rowntree Avenue. Dates are:
- Tuesday, May 11 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
M6L - West Park Healthcare Centre has expanded coverage to the M6L postal code and continues to take appointments for vaccination. 18+ individuals who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes are eligible. To register, click HERE.
Humber River Hospital continues to host pop-up vaccination clinics at Downsview Arena from 9AM until supplies last. Open individuals 18+ who live or work in "M" hotspot postal codes. No appointment required.
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
|
|
|
Pharmacy Locations for AstraZeneca Vaccine Pilot Program (Ages 40 & over)
|
|
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
|
|
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
|
|
|
MPP Hassan visiting with residents at the community organized vaccination clinic at St. Fidelis Catholic Church.
|
|
|
|
MPP Hassan questions on the government on the urgency of its vaccine rollout plan.
|
|
|
MPP Hassan visiting the vaccination clinic at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School this Saturday.
|
|
News Release
York South—Weston still short on vaccine sites
TORONTO — York South—Weston MPP Faisal Hassan heard from residents of his riding at an emergency town hall Thursday who are frustrated with the lack of vaccine access in their area.
Residents spoke of confusing booking systems and long line-ups; in some cases, vaccine supplies ran out and those lining up were sent home.
"One of the barriers to getting vaccinated that I don't feel has been addressed is language. There are a lot of community members in York South—Weston that do not have English as a first language," said Leeanne Elnicki, a resident who attended the virtual town hall Thursday evening.
“The stories I heard last night reaffirm the urgency for the government establish more mobile pop-ups and a permanent vaccine facility in York South—Weston," Hassan said.
“Essential workers and community members living in a clear hot spot don't deserve to be neglected by this government. At least 14 paid sick days and paid time off to get vaccines is essential to protect our high-risk community and slow the spread of COVID-19." |
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
Black Creek Community Health Centre is hosting a Virtual Townhall on Covid-19 Vaccine and Pregnancy. Get all your questions answered by two primary health care providers, and make informed decisions around the vaccine. For more information, contact Adele (416) 246-5072.
May 17, 2021 from 6:30 pm to 8 pm.
Zoom Meeting ID: 969 0258 3407
Passcode: 771956
Join by phone: (647) 374-4685.
|
|
|
|
|
Women’s College Hospital is hiring to support our mobile vaccination clinics. This opportunity is for a temporary part-time 4-month contract. Pay for this role is $19.21 per hour plus 14% in lieu of benefits and 6% vacation pay. The mobile vaccination clinics will be held at various sites within the M6M, M6N and M9N geographical areas. If you or someone you know within the community is interested in this opportunity, click HERE to apply online.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
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].
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
