Community Newsletter

MPP Community Newsletter February 20, 2026

Dear Neighbours,

In addition to cheering on Team Canada at the Winter Olympics, I’m preparing to return to Queen’s Park. (In fact, we were supposed to return to the Ontario Legislature last week, but the Ford government extended the Winter Break by an additional month.)

As your MPP for Davenport and Leader of the Official Opposition, I have been listening closely to what matters most to people in our community. I will bring your issues and voices with me when the Legislature reconvenes in March.

My Constituency Office has received many calls and emails about the Ford government’s recent cuts to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). At a time when tuition and the overall cost of living continue to rise, students cannot afford reductions to their financial support. These OSAP cuts could not come at a worse time, and students in Davenport and across Ontario deserve better. You can read more in this newsletter about the saveOSAP.ca campaign that we launched recently.

Whether you are concerned about the OSAP cuts, or another issue affecting you and your family, I encourage you to reach out in the coming weeks. Your stories, emails and conversations inform the work I bring to Queen’s Park. Thank you to the community members who have participated in town halls and shared their ideas - your engagement strengthens our democracy and helps to shape the future of the neighbourhood and province.

As we head into the final weekend of the Winter Olympics, I know many residents in Davenport will be cheering on Team Canada!

Have a great weekend.

Sincerely,

Marit Stiles
MPP for Davenport

Updates from the Legislature

Let's Save OSAP - Take Action

Over the past week, my Davenport constituency office has heard from many people who disagree with the recent cuts to OSAP announced by the Ford government. Young people across Ontario will be forced into debt as a result of these cuts, when education should set them up for success. This creates a vicious cycle that prevents people from getting ahead.

Take Action!

The Ontario NDP has launched a Save OSAP campaign, and we are working hard to demand a reversal of these cuts to save OSAP. You can sign a petition and send emails to demand that OSAP is saved.

We want to hear from students, parents and other key stakeholders. Let’s make our voices heard and save OSAP.

Check out our new website saveosap.ca

Click here to sign the OSAP petition

Share your Voice - Preparing to Return to Queen’s Park

The Legislature resumes on March 23, and I remain committed to raising the issues that matter the most to the people of Davenport. Whether it is the rising price of groceries and essentials, finding an affordable home, being able to afford post-secondary education, finding affordable childcare spaces, accessing seniors’ services, or getting timely access to healthcare, I know that people are dealing with a lot.

I’m focused on making life better for people, and I am ready to return to Queen’s Park to continue fighting for what’s important to Davenport residents.

What issues are top of mind for you or your family? I want to hear what matters the most to you.

Please complete this survey to let me know the top issues that you would like me to bring forward when the Legislature resumes.

What matters to you matters to me.

Click here to complete my survey.

Lunar New Year Reception at Queen’s Park 

As Leader of Ontario’s Official Opposition, I will be hosting a Lunar New Year Reception at Queen’s Park on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Members of the community are invited to attend this event!

Iftar at Queen’s Park – RSVP to attend

As Leader of Ontario’s Official Opposition, I will be hosting an Iftar at Queen’s Park on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

As the sun sets, we will come together to break fast and share in a serene evening in the spirit of Ramadan. Members of the community are invited to attend this event.

Click here to RSVP

Other News

Support Small Businesses - Request a Free Shop Local Sign 

Small businesses are at the heart of vibrant mainstreets and support the growth of local economies. In Davenport, we have hundreds of small businesses that showcase Ontario made goods as well as international and diverse products from around the world.

To encourage residents to shop locally, we have printed new Shop Local: Stronger Together signs for businesses to display in their storefront.

Do you have a business in Davenport? Request your FREE sign here.

Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals Scholarship Awards

The Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals (FPCBP) has announced that its 2026 scholarship applications are now open. Eligible Luso-Canadian youth can apply for scholarships ranging from $2,000.00 to $10,000. Applications are open until March 18, 2026. Click here for more information and full eligibility criteria.

Metrolinx Construction Notices

Bloor-Landsdowne Go

Davenport Diamond Greenway

Caledonia GO

Bloor GO/UP

Barrie GO Expansion

Kitchener 4th Track Expansion

Around the Community

Coldest Night of the Year – Support Oasis Dufferin Community Centre

Oasis Dufferin Community Centre is taking part in the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) on Saturday, February 28, 2026. This walk raises funds and awareness for charities supporting neighbours who are hungry, hurting and homeless. Here in Davenport, Oasis provides year-round support through its food bank, seniors’ programs, learning hub, and Spanish-speaking women’s counselling.

Click here to support this event.

 

Build Green Symposium

Join industry leaders, community partners, and changemakers for a full day of learning, dialogue, and connection at the 2026 Build Green Symposium hosted by Toronto Community Benefits Network at Humber Polytechnic.

Click here for more information and to register.

Husmates Co-Ownership Conference

Housing prices in Toronto have reached a breaking point. Co-ownership is helping people secure stable, beautiful homes through collaboration and shared resources. This event is an opportunity to explore the idea, meet others who are thinking about it too, and learn what it really takes to make co-ownership work.

  • Saturday, March 14, 2026

  • The Parkdale Hall, 1605 Queen St W

Click here for more information and to register for this event.

Toronto Home Energy Network Webinar

TDSB SEAC Listening to Parents’ Voice Meeting

Councillor Bravo's End of Season Skating Party

Days of Significance

Ramadan Mubarak Message

May this holy month bring peace, compassion, and strength to all those observing.

Lunar New Year Message

As communities come together to share meals and cultural traditions, may the year ahead bring happiness and prosperity to all.

February 22 - Chosen Family Day

February 25 - Pink Shirt Day

March is Bangladeshi Heritage Month

March is Irish Heritage Month

March is Mois de la Francophonie 

March 2 - Purim

March 2 - Black Mental Health Day

March 4 - Holi

 

MPP Community Newsletter February 6, 2026

Dear Neighbours,

February may be the shortest month of the year, but it offers meaningful opportunities for connection and reflection here in Davenport.  

As we observe Black History Month, we take time to honour Black Ontarians whose leadership, creativity and resilience have helped shape our community. It is a time to recommit ourselves to the continuing work to build a more just and inclusive province for everyone.  

This February also includes several important cultural and spiritual observances, including Lunar New Year, the beginning of Ramadan, Losar, and Family Day.  Each of these occasions offers an opportunity to come together, reflect, and look ahead with intention. They remind us of the richness and diversity that makes Davenport such a vibrant place to call home. I hope many of you are able to spend time connecting with the family, friends, neighbours, and communities that matter most to you, and that these moments offer space for rest, reflection, and a sense of belonging as we move through the winter season together. 

It is an honour to represent such a thoughtful, engaged, and welcoming community, and I look forward to continuing our work together. This newsletter contains updates on many exciting initiatives across Davenport, Toronto and Ontario. 

And – as a small reminder that spring is on its way - the days are getting longer, and, earlier this week, Wiarton Willie predicted only six more weeks of winter…. 

Go Team Canada!

Sincerely,

Marit Stiles
MPP for Davenport

Updates from the Legislature

FAO Report – Sounding the Alarm on Funding Cuts

The Ontario NDP sounded the alarm following the most recent Financial Accountability Office (FAO) Capital Spending Plan Report. The FAO found that the Ford government is continuing to make cuts to key services, including affordable housing, hospitals and school repairs. Here is a summary of some of the concerning findings in the report:

  • Further cuts to affordable housing funding, despite 85,000 people homeless and rising unemployment
  • A plan to eliminate 10,000 health care workers, despite long wait times at hospitals and the need for jobs
  • More cuts to public education, leaving overcrowded classrooms and poorly maintained school buildings in our children’s future

I will continue to push the Ford government to create plans that protect jobs, and provide a good quality of life for the people of Ontario.

Click here to access the full FAO Report

Stop the Education Takeovers – Emergency Townhall

There have been more concerning public education developments as schools and classrooms here in Davenport and across Ontario remain underfunded.

First, the provincially appointed TDSB Supervisor has reversed a decision to cap class sizes for Grades 4 to 8. And, the Ford government has taken over Peel District School Board and put them under the same ministerial supervision as the TDSB and TCDSB.

Placing school boards under supervision does not improve student outcomes, it only serves to block parents from being a part of important decisions about the future of education that are being made. We need to focus on properly funding our schools.

NDP MPP Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West-Nepean), Shadow Minister for Education, has organized an Emergency Education Town Hall to summarize what has happened, why it matters and what we can do next. 

Intimate Partner Violence Virtual Town Hall

The rates of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in Ontario are on the rise. Members of the Davenport community are welcome to attend a Virtual Town Hall about IPV to discuss actions that need to be taken in Ontario. Join MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam (Toronto Centre), Shadow Attorney General, with responsibility for 2SLGBTQI+ Issues, and MPP Alexa Gilmour (Parkdale-High Park), Shadow Minister for Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, along with a panel of experts for this important conversation.

My Statement Regarding MPP Doly Begum

I released the following statement on MPP Doly Begum's resignation:

"… I received Doly Begum’s notice of resignation as MPP for Scarborough Southwest. I want to thank Doly for her service and wish her well. "Our party has been proud to represent the good people of Scarborough Southwest for the past eight years and look forward to continuing that representation. "I want to especially thank her constituency staff who, as New Democrats, continue their excellent work serving constituents."

Setting Priorities for the Next Legislative Session

I met with the Ontario NDP Caucus to start to prepare for the next Legislative Session, which begins March 23, 2026. Since the house rose in December, we have been out there, listening to communities about where people are at, and what matters to them right now. We are bringing these ideas together, and are working through real solutions and plans that address the challenges that people are facing right here in Davenport and across Ontario. Click here to watch the full press conference.

Other News

Call for End to Ontario Contracts Serving ICE

I recently made an announcement that called for an end to Ontario's manufacturing contract with ICE — to ensure that both Ontario and Canada have no part in the atrocities being committed in the United States.

In Ontario, I believe that we need to find stable opportunities for Ontario manufacturers to strengthen Canada, not increase our reliance on the United States.

Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals Scholarship Awards

The Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business and Professionals (FPCBP) has announced that its 2026 scholarship applications are now open. Eligible Luso-Canadian youth can apply for scholarships ranging from $2,000.00 to $10,000. Applications are open until March 18, 2026. Click here for more information and full eligibility criteria.

Metrolinx Updates

TTC Line 5 Eglinton Crosstown LRT is now Open

I’m sure many of you heard the news that the TTC Line 5/Eglinton Crosstown LRT begins a phased opening this Sunday, February 8th. I know that there are many households and businesses in Davenport who have experienced years of hardship as a result of this delayed project, and we will continue to demand a public inquiry into Metrolinx.

I hope that we see a smooth opening of Line 5. With 2 stops serving Davenport (Fairbank and Caledonia) let’s hope that residents and businesses alike finally start experiencing the benefits of this new transit line.

Click here to read the full details of the Line 5/Eglinton Crosstown phased opening.

Metrolinx Construction Notices

Bloor-Landsdowne Go

Davenport Diamond Greenway

Bloor GO/UP

Barrie GO Expansion

Kitchener 4th Track Expansion

Around the Community

You’re Invited – Lunar New Year’s Reception at Queen’s Park

Members of the community are invited to RSVP and attend the Lunar New Year’s Reception at Queen’s Park.

Click here to RSVP to the Lunar New Year Reception

Celebrating Thai Pongal at Tamil Co-op

At the end of January, I had the pleasure of gathering with members of Davenport’s Tamil Co-op to celebrate Thai Pongal. May this harvest festival bring abundance and prosperity to all the residents and their families. Warmest wishes for a bright, healthy, and prosperous New Year! 

2026 Seniors Calendar now available

Back by popular demand, my 2026 Seniors Calendar is available. Please contact my community office if you would like a copy. My community office team can be reached at:

Please note that unfortunately we are unable to accommodate large-volume requests at this time. 

Free Family Day fun at Queen’s Park Winter Festival

Looking for something fun and free to do on the Family Day weekend? The Legislative Assembly of Ontario is holding a two-day celebration, designed for families of all ages.

  • Event Dates: Saturday, February 14 and Monday, February 16.
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: Ontario Legislative Building, Queen’s Park, Toronto (just north of TTC Queen’s Park subway station)

Click here for more information.

City of Toronto outside Mural and Street Art Program – FIFA

The City of Toronto has opened applications for its outside mural and street art program, and this year there is a bit of a FIFA World Cup theme. Business associations and community groups can receive one-time funding for outside mural projects that help promote a local theme and facilitate neighbourhood identity.  In order to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 26, special consideration will be given to mural proposals that highlight the spirit of the tournament and “The World in a City” theme. 

Click here for more information.

Fund our City Toronto Budget Rally

On February 10, Toronto City Council will be voting on the 2026 City Budget. Social Planning Toronto and partners are organizing a community rally outside City Hall to let Council know this is no time for cuts.

Statistics Canada Now Hiring for the 2026 Census

Statistics Canada is now hiring for the 2026 Census. Click here for more information and to apply.

Stay Warm Davenport - Warming Centres Information

City of Toronto Warming Centres are part of the City’s Winter Services Plan for people experiencing homelessness. 

Click here to check the status of Warming Centres and for more information.

Regal Heights Residents Association Valentine’s Neighbourhood Pub Night

Days of Significance

February is Black History Month

February 4 - Imamat Day

February 16 - Family Day

February 16 - Louis Riel Day

February 17 - Lunar New Year

February 17 - Ramadan set to begin

February 18 - Losar

 

MPP Community Newsletter January 23, 2026

 

Dear Neighbours,

Happy New Year, Davenport!

The start of a new year brings many opportunities, and my team and I are working hard to support our community with the issues that matter the most.

As you may have heard, the upcoming legislative session has been delayed by an additional six weeks and is now set to resume on March 23. Even though we are not sitting at Queen’s Park for the next two months, my team and I are still working, and continuing to advocate for our community.

This newsletter contains information on the upcoming provincial pre-budget consultations, the new Blue Box recycling program brought in by the Ford government, as well as the new Student and Family Support Offices at the TDSB and TCDSB. I will remain busy speaking out on issues that are important to the residents of Davenport.

It was great to see many of you at my annual New Year’s Levee event! We announced the 2026 Davenport Good Neighbour Award recipients. Please see a full list of the recipients, and some photos from the event, in my community updates below.

Wishing you a good start to 2026.

Sincerely,

Marit Stiles
MPP for Davenport

Updates from the Legislature

Provincial Pre-Budget Consultations – We Want to Hear from You!

The provincial government is accepting written submissions and requests to participate in its 2026 Pre-Budget Consultations until January 29.

We want to hear from you! Whether you are a small business, arts or community group, service agency, or nonprofit, your voice matters in shaping how the provincial government uses its budget to make life more affordable in Davenport and across the province. As your MPP, I’m committed to advocating for the people of Davenport and making the budget work for you.

Have your say and choose how you would like to participate:

For more information about the provincial budget, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/budget-consultations.

Also, please feel free to submit your thoughts or any written materials to our office so that we can better understand what issues are facing your organization and how, as your MPP, I can bring your voice to Queen's Park.

Blue Box recycling program changes – Issues and Information

The Ford government made regulatory changes to the Blue Box recycling program (previously operated by the City of Toronto) that took effect across Ontario on January 1, 2026. Our office has heard from many people in the Davenport riding with questions and complaints about the new program.

I share your concerns about the massive inconvenience, unreliable service, and possible negative environmental consequences that come with this change. The Ford government made these changes behind closed doors and without any debate.

I know that people across Davenport are committed to recycling because it reduces landfill waste and supports local environmental responsibility.

There is no excuse for unreliable service. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks must ensure that Blue Box services continue for anyone who received it prior to this year, that it remains as reliable as it was under The City of Toronto, and that the producer responsibility system results in less waste and lower costs to municipalities rather than poorer recycling services. 

At this time, the best source of information we have about the changes can be found here. If you need to make a complaint to Circular Materials because your blue box has not been picked up, please call 1-888-921-2686 or email at [email protected]. 

TDSB/TCDSB - New Student and Family Support Offices Open

The Ford government opened new Student and Family Support Offices for the Toronto District School Board and the Toronto Catholic District School Board. Unfortunately, these changes simply add layers of bureaucracy without accountability. What families really need is the return of elected trustees to navigate the system and advocate for them.

Links to Contact Student and Family Support Offices:

Click here to read the statement released by NDP Shadow Minister for Education, MPP Pasma (Ottawa West-Nepean).

The following CityTV news report summarizes the issue. Click here to watch the video.

Standing with the Simao Family and Calling for More Special Education Resources in Classrooms

I recently joined MPP Gilmour (Parkdale-High Park), MPP Lennox (Hamilton Centre), and the Ontario Autism Coalition, to stand with Chris and Emily Simao, whose autistic seven-year-old son, Max, was tragically struck and killed by a bus in December. Max was on a modified half-day school schedule due to staffing shortages stemming from a lack of provincial funding.

Chris and Emily have been living through every parent’s worst nightmare. Max should have been at school, one of his favourite things to do. Instead, he was sent home early, because his school didn’t have enough resources to support him.

I am calling on the Premier and his Minister of Education to finally provide proper funding for special education.

Watch the full video here.

Integrity Commissioner’s Investigation of Skills Development Fund Continues

Even though the Legislature is not sitting right now, the Integrity Commissioner's investigation into Minister of Labour David Piccini's role continues. The investigation was launched following my letter to the Integrity Commissioner.

I will continue to demand the Ford government fire the Minister of Labour over the mismanagement of the $2.5 billion Skills Development Fund. If you are still trying to understand the Skills Development Fund issue, you can watch this video for a detailed explanation. I will continue to push on this issue until the truth comes out.

Other News

City of Toronto Warming Centres

With extreme cold winter temperatures right now, I wanted to share information on how to find the City of Toronto’s Warming Centres. These Warming Centres are part of the City’s Winter Services Plan for people experiencing homelessness.  

Click here to check the status of Warming Centres and for more information.

Metrolinx Updates

Antler-Lappin Connection

Davenport Councillor Allejandro Bravo has announced that The City of Toronto will step in to fund the Antler-Lappin connection that was originally part of the Metrolinx Davenport Diamond Greenway project, but was never completed. This will connect local residents to parks, schools, businesses and to each other. Thank you to Councillor Bravo and the City of Toronto for picking up where Metrolinx and the provincial government abandoned this community. 

Watch the video on this story here.

Construction Notices

Bloor-Landsdowne Go

Davenport Diamond Greenway

Bloor GO/UP Station Overnight Excavation work – July-Mar 2026

Barrie GO Expansion

Kitchener 4th Track Expansion

Around the Community

Davenport Good Neighbour Awards announced at my New Year’s Levee

On January 15, my team and I hosted my annual New Year’s Levee and announced the 2026 recipients of the Davenport Good Neighbour Awards. It was wonderful to welcome the new year with so many members of Davenport that make this community special and strong.  

Here is a full list of the 2026 Davenport Good Neighbour Award Recipients.

  • Liz Allaby - Volunteer, Working Women Community Centre
  • Rodrigo Ardiles - Founder, Dundas West Open Air Museum
  • Maria Carrusca - Volunteer, Horizons for Youth Shelter
  • Helder Costa – Co-owner, Caldense Bakery
  • Katharine Harris - Chair, General Mercer Junior Public School Parent Council
  • John Santos – Founder, The Long and McQuade Musical Instruments Singing Contest
  • Hasseena Shah - Volunteer, Oasis Dufferin Community Centre
  • Asli & Selcuk Suna – Co-founders, Concerts on Connolly
  • Joelle Young - Volunteer, Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement

Congratulations to these amazing award recipients. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination, we had many wonderful nominations this year.

We also presented a Special Recognition Award to Casa Da Madeira to acknowledge the challenges the Casa has faced in the past year, since the act of arson in 2025.

The 2026 Davenport Good Neighbour Award Recipients, and my Community Office staff. 

Members of the community braved the wintry weather to attend my New Year's Levee at Casa Do Alentejo, where the Davenport Good Neighbour Awards were announced.

A Special Recognition Award was presented to Casa Da Madeira.

Townhall – Society of Hospitality Workers

The Society of Hospitality Workers is a democratic organization who are collectively working towards better wages, benefits, safer workplaces, and better treatment across the sector.  On February 2nd, they will be holding a town hall to discuss issues endemic to the hospitality industry.

Davenport Community Leader featured in Toronto Star Article

Davenport resident and community leader Erella Ganon was recently featured in a Toronto Star series Toronto The Better. Erella is "helping shape the city's future through housing and arts advocacy”. Click here to read the full article.

 

 

 

Days of Significance

January is Tamil Heritage Month

January 27 – International Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 29 – National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Islamophobia

Days of Significance earlier in the month:

January 7 - Orthodox Christmas

January 13 - Lohri

January 14 - Orthodox New Year

January 14 - Thai Pongal

January 19 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January 21 - Lincoln Alexander Day

Marit Stiles, MPP - Davenport Community Office: 1199 Bloor St. West, Toronto
416-535-3158 - [email protected]

MPP Community Newsletter November 14, 2025

Dear Neighbours,

Thank you to everyone from the Davenport community who came together on November 11 to honour and remember those who serve, those who have served, and those who never returned.

The Ontario Legislature was not sitting last week, but it has still been a very busy time. I recently took part in the Official Opposition's first The People’s Forum. We brought people together to talk about two critical government bills that will affect public education and housing and tenant rights. These bills are being pushed through without any public debate, so we organized The People’s Forum to hear from Davenport residents and people across the province to talk about what’s at stake and how we can push back together.

The Ford government also recently released its annual Fall Economic Statement — and unfortunately, it really missed the mark. There was no real plan to create good jobs, make life more affordable, or build the type of homes that people need. You can read more details in my full legislative update below, and I’ll keep pushing the government at Queen’s Park to do better for our communities.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, Davenport’s many holiday markets and clothing/food/toy drives are starting up. You’ll find details for some initiatives in the community updates below, and we’ll share more in our next newsletter as the season gets underway. If you have a holiday drive or market that you would like us to share, please send the details to my office at [email protected].

Have a great weekend,

Marit Stiles
MPP for Davenport

Updates from the Legislature

Fall Economic Statement Fails to Deliver for Working People

Unfortunately, the Ford government’s recent Fall Economic Statement failed to deliver the plan that families in Davenport and across the province urgently need as the cost of living rises, the job crisis worsens, and the housing crisis deepens.

Key Points from Disappointing Fall Economic Statement:

  • Housing: The lowest housing starts in a decade. No commitment to build more affordable housing or address homelessness.
  • Education: Education funding is unchanged, despite the growing school repair backlog. Post-secondary institutions face more than $1.4 billion in cuts over the next four years.
  • Healthcare: Healthcare spending is set to grow by less than 1%, well below inflation and falling short of the rising needs of an aging population.
  • Social Services and Childcare: No increases to social services spending (ODSP/OW). No plan to expand childcare or secure the $10-a-day agreement that families are relying on.
  • Environment: Still no provincial climate action plan to build a safer, healthier future.

Here’s more of my response to the Fall Economic Statement:

I’ll continue to call on the government to focus on what really matters — creating good local jobs, investing in public services, and helping families build economic security.

Launch of The People’s Forum in Response to “Blatantly Undemocratic” Process for Proposed Education and Housing Legislation

At Queen's Park recently, the Ford government shut-down debate and committee hearings to fast-track two bills that will make life harder for Ontarians. Bill 33 hands more control of school boards to the government, and pays unelected school supervisors $350,000 a year. And Bill 60 significantly weakens protections for renters facing unfair evictions and rising costs.

In response to this “blatantly undemocratic” action, the Official Opposition launched The People’s Forum. We convened our first The People’s Forum this week to hear the concerns of real people from Davenport and across the province. It was a great discussion about education, housing and the importance of our democratic process. Thank you to the close to 200 participants that took part.

Failure to Declare Intimate Partner Violence an Epidemic

The Ford government recently voted NO to supporting the Official Opposition's call to declare Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) an epidemic. IPV is recognized as an endemic but this does not go far enough. Over 100 municipalities across Ontario, police associations, experts and advocacy groups have declared IPV an epidemic. Declaring IPV an epidemic would mandate funding and resources to services that address the IPV crisis, and help to destigmatize the issue. November is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Canada, and I was disappointed that the Ford government did not support our Bill and address this crisis now.

Skills Development Fund Disaster Continues  

Whether the issue is Ontario Place, the Greenbelt or now the Skills Development Fund, I will continue to hold the Ford government accountable for favouring party insiders over the people of Ontario. I have issued an open letter to the Premier, demanding that he fire the Minister of Labour David Piccini over the mismanagement of the Skills Development Fund. 

Click here to read my Open Letter

Hands Off Exhibition Place

Spadina-Fort York MPP Chris Glover recently uncovered that the Ford government is quietly seizing control of Exhibition Place. They plan to bring the land under the Rebuilding Ontario Place Act—legislation that lets the Ford government override provincial and municipal laws, including heritage protections, environmental safeguards, and even labour laws. This provincial overreach must be stopped.

Other News

2026 Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards – nominations open

The Rosemary Brown Racial Justice Awards honour Ontarians who are actively working towards the elimination of racial discrimination and the promotion of human rights and equity. These awards commemorate the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21st.

Flu Shot and Covid-19 Vaccines now available

You can receive the latest annual COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot for free at participating pharmacies. Most pharmacies book appointments ahead of time and many allow walk-ins. Vaccine availability may vary. Call ahead to ensure the pharmacy has supply before going.

Metrolinx Updates

Construction Notices

Bloor-Landsdowne Go

Davenport Diamond Greenway

Bloor GO/UP Station Overnight Excavation work – July-Mar 2026

Barrie GO Expansion

Caledonia GO

Around the Community

Do you have an upcoming food, clothing or toy drive planned for the holidays? Please send the details to our office at [email protected] so we can share information about Davenport community initiatives in our next newsletter!

Angola Flag Raising at Queen’s Park – November 5

On November 5, I joined members of the Angola Community for a Flag-Raising Ceremony and reception to mark the 50th Anniversary of Angola’s Independence.

 

Visit to The Stop Community Drop-In Meal

On November 14, I visited one of The Stop's community drop-in breakfast meals. I spoke to members of the Davenport community who greatly appreciate the meals prepared by Community Chefs and volunteers.

 

Junction Triangle Craft Show – November 23

General Mercer Jr P.S. Holiday Market – November 26

St. Clair Gardens Frosty the Snowman Festival – Saturday, November 29

Disability Collective Holiday Festival – December 7

Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement – The Nutcracker, 40th Anniversary, December 5 - 7

Be a Santa for a Senior

Days of Significance

November 15 - Guru Nanak Gurpurab

November 16 - Louis Riel Day

November 17 - Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week

November 20 - Transgender Day of Remembrance

November 20 - National Child Day

November 22 - Holodomor Memorial Day

November 25 - International Day of the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls

MPP Community Newsletter October

Dear Neighbours,

It’s been a busy return to the Ontario Legislature. Over the past two weeks, I’ve been speaking out on behalf of Davenport residents and people across Ontario on several critical issues including:

  • Pushing back against Bill 60, and the urgent need to protect tenants’ rights
  • Exposing how the Skills Development Fund funnelled money to lobbyists instead of creating real jobs for Ontarians.
  • Highlighting the Ford government’s ongoing jobs crisis and the impact on working families.
  • Challenging the Ford government’s overreach with both Bill 33 (which removes elected school board trustees) and Bill 56 (which bans municipal speed cameras).

At the same time, I’ve been proud to introduce real solutions to strengthen Ontario, including:

  • The Ontario NDP’s Buy Ontario First strategy — a plan to create and protect good local jobs.
  • A Fans First plan that bans ticket resales above face value, putting fairness and affordability back into live events.

You can read more in the Updates from the Legislature section below — and I plan to keep this strong momentum going at Queen’s Park in the weeks ahead.

Closer to home, our community’s thoughts remain with everyone affected by the tragic Casa de Madeira fire on October 22. Updates on the ongoing investigation are included in this newsletter.

It’s also shaping up to be a busy weekend here in Davenport. Halloween celebrations continue with trick-or-treating on October 31, followed by Davenport’s Pumpkin Parades on November 1.

Wishing everyone a safe and festive weekend — Happy Halloween!

Have a great weekend,

Marit Stiles

MPP for Davenport

Updates from the Legislature

Stop Bill 60

Thank you to the many Davenport residents who have taken the time to contact my Community Office to express their concerns about Bill 60. On Wednesday night, I co-hosted an Emergency Town Hall with our Shadow Minister for Housing, MPP Catherine McKenney, to discuss how we can all work together to stop Bill 60 and stand up for renters.

Thanks to public outcry, the Ford government has already been forced to remove the controversial “security of tenure” clause from Bill 60 — a win for renters and housing advocates across Ontario. But our work isn’t done yet. We need to keep the pressure on to stop this harmful bill entirely and protect affordable housing in our communities.

This week, we also launched  StopBill60.ca — a new website where residents can access resources, sign the petition, take part in the email campaign, and download flyers to help spread the word.

Join me in the fight for good jobs and affordable homes. Add your name here to help stop Bill 60.

Calling for Accountability: Minister Piccini Must Resign

This week, I called for Minister of Labour David Piccini’s resignation following serious concerns about the misuse of the Skills Development Fund. What was meant to help workers build skills and access good jobs has instead become a pay-to-play scheme, funneling public money to political insiders and donors — while worker-focused applications were denied.

The Ontario Auditor General found that the fund was not “fair, transparent, or accountable,” echoing the same troubling patterns seen in recent investigations into the Greenbelt and Ontario Place. Millions of dollars went to low-scoring applications from well-connected insiders, while 670 higher-ranked proposals were rejected.

I will continue to push for Minister Piccini’s resignation and demand that the Ford government stop putting party insiders ahead of Ontario’s workers.

Buy Ontario First - A Real Plan to Create Good Jobs in Ontario

With nearly 800,000 Ontarians out of work and youth unemployment at 18%, it’s clear that the Ford government’s approach to jobs has been a disaster. Ontario needs a government that invests in workers — not one that leaves them behind.

That’s why I’ve put forward a real solution: the Ontario NDP’s Buy Ontario First strategy. This plan would ensure that $30 billion in public procurement contracts stay within Ontario to support our workers and businesses.

Hear more about the Buy Ontario First Plan:

By prioritizing local workers and industries, the Buy Ontario First plan will help reverse the Ford government’s jobs crisis and build a stronger economy — right here in Davenport and across the province. Tell the government to support my Buy Ontario First plan.

Putting Fans First

With many Toronto Blue Jays fans priced out of World Series tickets, I launched a new petition this week to put Fans First and ban ticket resales above face value in Ontario. The Fans First plan puts everyday people ahead of ticket resellers and big business, ensuring fair access to sports, concerts, and live events. Fans deserve transparency, affordability, and a fair chance to enjoy the events they love — without being priced out by exploitative resale practices.

Add your name to the Fans First petition

Other News

Davenport Community Stands with Casa da Madeira

Our community was deeply saddened by the devastating fire at Davenport’s Casa da Madeira on October 22. This long-standing cultural and social hub has been a cornerstone for the Portuguese community, bringing people together for generations of celebrations, events, and connection.

I want to extend my sincere thanks to Toronto Fire Services and all first responders for their swift action in containing the blaze and ensuring everyone’s safety. Toronto Police Services has asked for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect in their ongoing arson investigation — you can read their news release with more information here. 

Flu Shot and Covid-19 Vaccines now available

You can receive the latest annual COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot for free at participating pharmacies. Most pharmacies book appointments ahead of time and many allow walk-ins. Vaccine availability may vary. Call ahead to ensure the pharmacy has supply before going. Click here to check vaccine availability. 

Metrolinx Updates

Construction Notices

Bloor-Landsdowne Go

Davenport Diamond Greenway

Kitchener 4th track expansion + West Toronto Railpath Realignment

Barrie GO Expansion

Around the Community

Clay and Paper Theatre's annual Night of Dread parade and pageant in Dufferin Grove

   

Remembrance Day - Tuesday, November 11

Remembrance Day ceremonies and projects in Davenport:

  • “They walked these streets... We will remember them” Remembrance Project. This innovative and interactive community Remembrance week commemoration has several installations in the west-end of Toronto, including one at Davenport’s Bloor Collegiate Institute. Click here for more information about this personal and interactive project.
  • Community members are invited to attend the 97th annual Remembrance Day Sunrise Service at Prospect Cemetery. Click here for event details. 
Florence Watts Memorial and planting bulbs on Daffodil Hill

I was pleased to join the Regal Heights Residents' Association to honour and celebrate the life of Florence Watts. Florence was a community leader, neighbour, and friend. Her work increasing green spaces in the community spans over decades and her legacy will be remembered in places like Daffodil Hill. If you're in the Regal Heights area, check out the plaque on Daffodil Hill honouring Florence Watts. I had a wonderful time planting this year's bulbs and looking forward to the blooms next year.

   

   

Charlie Angus Town Hall Event - November 27

Finding Light in these Dark Times. A Meidas Canada/West End Phoenix town hall conversation, hosted by Charlie Angus, author, musician and former MP.

Call for Vendors/Artists for Holiday Markets

   

   

Months of Significance - November

Days of Significance

October 21 was Childcare Worker and Early Childcare Educator Appreciation Day

I would like to recognize and thank the many childcare centres and their dedicated employees for providing such critical community services to Davenport families.

Treaties Recognition Week - begins November 2

Trans Parent Day - November 3

Veterans' Week Begins November 5

Indigenous Veterans Day - November 8

Remembrance Day - November 11

Transgender Awareness Week Begins November 13

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Phone: 437-772-7831