Take action
We are taking legal action.
Safe neighbourhoods and meaningful support for people experiencing homelessness should go together. We are asking the courts to require a more responsible approach.
Why we’re acting
Our concerns have been dismissed for too long.
For many months, members of Safe Neighbourhoods Toronto have repeatedly raised concerns about the siting of 24-hour shelters deep in neighbourhoods. We have decried the lack of genuine community consultation and the undemocratic nature of delegated authority.
We have identified the failure of City staff and elected officials to follow their own rules, bylaws and regulations. And we have warned that bringing people struggling with addiction and mental-health challenges near schools, daycares and seniors’ centres, without adequate treatment, safeguards and accountability, would create chaos.
Unfortunately, elected officials and senior city staff have dismissed or ignored the pleas of Torontonians.
We cannot stand by while more shelters are unlawfully approved and constructed in our neighbourhoods.
The legal challenge
Holding decision-makers accountable.
Safe Neighbourhoods Toronto has sued Olivia Chow (Mayor), Ausma Malik (Ward 10 Councillor) and Gord Tanner (head of TSSS) for misfeasance in office and abuse of process.
Stop unlawful approvals
Ask the court to stop the City from approving, constructing or opening other shelters in the nine neighbourhoods SNT represents.
Protect 629 Adelaide
Seek suspension of the operating agreement between the City and St. Felix Centre for the shelter at 629 Adelaide Street West.
Recover damages
Claim $1,000,000 in damages, which, after recovering executive time spent on this cause, will be donated entirely to addiction-treatment services in Toronto.
More details coming soon.
Stand with SNT
This is a long and expensive battle.
Thank you to the members and supporters who have contributed already. If you would like to help resist the shelter in your neighbourhood, please consider contributing.
Primary way to contribute
Send an eTransfer.
To support the legal challenge and SNT’s work, send an eTransfer to:
safeneighbourhoodstoronto@gmail.com
Other ways to support
Contribute to the cause.
Your support helps SNT continue this legal challenge and advocate for accountable, treatment-focused shelter planning.