October 06, 2020
Dear Resident,
While the pandemic's impact continues to be felt throughout Ontario, its most profound sting has been in vulnerable communities. One only needs to look at the Toronto Public Health maps of the COVID-19 hotspots and see that the social determinants of health are directly connected to the spread of this deadly virus. Our own Humber River Black Creek, North Etobicoke, and parts of Scarborough are some of the hardest-hit areas.
As the Poverty Reduction Advocate for the City of Toronto and as a parent myself, I am continuing to advocate for higher health and safety standards in our schools. Boards need to hire more custodians, nurses, teachers, and other staff to see this through. Families need consistent support for virtual learning outcomes to be successful.
Our neighbourhoods cannot afford to be driven to further despair by more COVID-19 flare-ups. We can’t afford to shut down schools and quarantine everyone repeatedly. Communication is key to combatting COVID-19, and workers need to be aware of outbreaks as soon as they happen. The Province needs to take immediate action to mitigate crowding and line-ups outside of testing centres. Humber River-Black Creek is counting on Premier Ford to put our health first and give us the tools we need for a chance to contain this virus for the long-term.
While many of us can't be together for Thanksgiving this year, I strongly encourage everyone to reach out to family or friends online or via phone if you do not live with them. Let's find ways to connect and share the experience, giving thanks, and making the most of the autumn season.
From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! Please stay safe. Maintain physical distancing and wear your masks.
Property Tax & Water Bill Rebate Programs:
Every year my office hosts Property Tax & Water Bill Rebate clinics to help seniors and those with disabilities fill out applications for these programs. Due to COVID-19, this year will be different.
Please call my office to set up a one-on-one appointment at (416) 338-5335 or email councillor_perruzza@toronto.ca.
The deadline to apply for the Property Tax, Water Bill, and Solid Waste Relief programs is October 30, 2020. When you call or email, please confirm which ID you need to bring with you to your appointment.
If you have any concerns or need access to resources, please give my office a call at (416) 338-5335 or email councillor_perruzza@toronto.ca.
For regular updates, please follow me on Facebook @AnthonyPerruzza, Twitter @PerruzzaTO, Instagram @Perruzza_TO or subscribe to my regular e-newsletter updates online by visiting my website.
Sincerely,
City Councillor Anthony Perruzza
Ward 7 – Humber River-Black Creek
