Growing up, I've always believed that every neighbourhood should be a place where everyone, regardless of their income, can thrive. My concern today is for Malvern, a diverse and historically rich community in Scarborough, that faces the threat of gentrification and displacement.

Gentrification often leads to the pushing out of long-standing residents due to increasing rent prices and cost of living. Many low-income families find themselves no longer able to afford a place they've called home for generations. In Malvern, we see this challenge mounting. Housing prices have been steadily rising, pricing out the very community that has contributed to the neighbourhood's culture and character.

This petition urges the City of Toronto to take proactive measures to protect the low-income residents of Malvern. Specifically, we are asking the City to require all new residential developments in Malvern to include affordable housing units, strengthen protections for existing tenants facing displacement, and establish community benefit agreements that prioritize the needs of current residents. We also ask the City to prioritize affordable housing when approving new developments and ensure that low-income families have access to housing they can realistically afford.

Moreover, it's imperative that Malvern residents have a seat at the table when decisions affecting their neighbourhood are made. Community members must be actively included in the planning process to ensure redevelopment efforts truly benefit existing residents.

Access to affordable housing is more than just a basic need; it is a critical factor in maintaining the community fabric and ensuring the well-being of its residents. According to a report by the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN), areas undergoing rapid gentrification see a significant decrease in affordable housing stock, with low-income families facing undue financial stress and disruption to their lives.

Everyone deserves the right to live in dignity within their communities. By signing this petition, you are supporting a vision for Malvern that respects its history, prioritizes inclusivity, and secures a sustainable and equitable future for all its residents. Please join me in calling on the City of Toronto to adopt stronger affordable housing requirements, protect existing Malvern residents from displacement, and ensure that future development benefits the community instead of pricing people out.