Toronto will invest $4.97 million to support vulnerable residents during the pandemic.
Announced Tuesday, Mayor John Tory said the funds will be distributed from the TO Supports Investment Fund to community-based agencies working to meet the needs of those most affected by COVID-19.
“It really has indeed been through partnerships with community agencies across the city that we’ve been able to do this in a way that I think has been successful, effective and unprecedented,” the mayor said during a press conference announcing the initiative.
“Many of the non-profit organizations have stepped up and helped us in our efforts responding to the pandemic, and they of course for many years have recognized and have been helping us deal with what is a very real need out there.”
The TO Supports Investment Fund was created in partnership with investments from both the city and the province, as well outside foundations and agencies.
So far, the fund has aided the Red Cross’s food hamper program feeding seniors under quarantine, as well as other emergency food access initiatives.
Fifty more community agencies will benefit from the fund over the coming weeks, offering everything from mental health supports to increased and culturally appropriate prepared meals for those in need.
“COVID-19 has had severe consequences on our finances, both in terms of increased costs of looking after especially most vulnerable people, but looking after all people, and revenue shortfalls that we’ve experienced because, for example, people are not using the public transit,” Tory said.
“That effects our ability in the present, and in the future, to continue to look after vulnerable people in our city.”
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