Our residential community is on the cusp of change with the establishment of a new shelter intended to support vulnerable individuals and address housing insecurity. While the intention behind this proposal is commendable, we the residents of the area have serious concerns regarding the shelter's potential impact on public safety, particularly with its proximity to homes, schools and local businesses.

Our neighbourhood has strived to cultivate a safe and welcoming environment over the years. This undertaking has involved the collaboration of residents, local law enforcement, and community organizations all working together to ensure that our streets remain safe for families, students, and businesses alike. However, the current shelter proposal raises significant issues that we feel have not been adequately addressed by the city.

Firstly, public safety is paramount and the shelter's location near schools and across from a daycare may expose children to potential risks, and its close proximity to homes could alter the dynamic of our community. Furthermore, local businesses may suffer as customers may feel less safe, potentially impacting economic viability.

Secondly, not much information has been released about whether this shelter will be providing harm reduction services. Over the years the plaza across the street has become increasing unsafe due to unhoused people on drugs that  loiter around Kipling station and Shoppers. Crime and disorder have become a huge issue in that small area so we wish to understand how the shelter plans to integrate with the neighbourhood in a way that enhances safety and security not make it worse.

Instead of opposing the shelter outright, we propose to move it to a location that is better suited for it. Being directly attached to small businesses and bordering family homes could lead to issues especially if people are on drugs.

We call on the city of Toronto to put community safety at the forefront of this initiative. By doing so, we can work together to create an environment where everyone, including those the shelter aims to support can thrive safely without compromising our community's values.

Join us in advocating for a revised proposal and location that bridges the gap between compassion and safety. Sign this petition to ensure that the safety and integrity of our neighbourhood are preserved while still extending a helping hand to those in need.