RPTV WEEKLY NEWS (EP85) - Community Rallies for Social Housing at 214-230 Sherbourne Site

RPTV Weekly News Show Episode 85 (June 12th to June 20th) - in this weekly news show hosted by RPTV reporters Kedar Ahmed, Victoria Nanneti, Jabin Haque, and Gabriel Meissner , we present news that impacts on Toronto's Regent Park and the surrounding areas.

In this episode we present the following news:
0:00 Intro;
 01:23 Councillor Moise Hosts TC Talks on Downtown East Action Plan;
 02:16 Regent Park Pride Community Block Party: "Know Your Neighbours";
 10:33 St James Town Spring Gathering 2024 Marks a Decade of Impact;
 16:19 Community Rallies for Social Housing at 214-230 Sherbourne Site;
 18:42 Filipinos in Regent Park Host Heritage Celebration;
 21:40 Family Day Event Celebrates Toronto International Storytelling Festival in Regent Park;
 22:56 51 Division Open House Draws Community Engagement;
 23:28 Metrolinx Hosts Virtual Update on Moss Park Station Excavation;
 24:40 Regent Park Permit Parking Community Consultation;
 25:37 Events and Jobs in Regent Park Community.
 
This week’s lead story:
Community Rallies for Social Housing at 214-230 Sherbourne Site
 
By Fred Alvarado Fred is a community journalist with FOCUS MEDIA ARTS CENTRE

On June 15, the 230 Fightback Group and supporters gathered at 214-230 Sherbourne Street to advocate for social housing instead of another luxury condo development. Demonstrators assembled on the land, which has stood empty for sixteen years, claiming it for those in need of housing.

Upon reaching the destination, the group accessed the fenced-off property, holding their assembly on the land with powerful speeches, food for attendees, and performances by local musicians. The collective determination to challenge developers if politicians do not act was clear, highlighting the community's resolve to secure social housing at the site. The atmosphere was filled with a strong sense of solidarity and purpose, as community members voiced their concerns and hopes for a more equitable housing solution.

KingSett Capital, the current owner, has expressed willingness to sell to the City but demands a price that covers its speculative costs. Local politicians, including Mayor Olivia Chow and Councillor Chris Moise, argue that a public purchase should occur at a reasonable cost.

The call for social housing at this site is not just a local issue but a broader statement about the city's housing crisis. The community is pushing for change, insisting that public needs should take precedence over private profit. The rally demonstrated that residents are prepared to take matters into their own hands if necessary, standing firm in their demand for affordable housing solutions.

The recent march sent a clear message: if politicians don't act, the community will. The fight for social housing at 214-230 Sherbourne will continue until the needs of residents are met.

RPTV was at the event to capture the powerful moments of the event.