Email | [email protected]

Vol. 3 No. 4 | Summer 2014 and in fact responsibilities of all temp agencies, are of such consequence that the Liberal government INSIDE region addressed them through Bill 146, A Stronger Workplace for a Stronger Economy. The bill died when 2 Down-Turn Abbey the election was called, but the office of 3 Helping children grieve Kevin Flynn, Minister of Labour, tells us that it will 4 Tough Tomes must be re-introduced. “Among the issues addressed in Bill 146 were 5 Ask the question, learn the liability for unpaid wages, so that both the agency answers research and the workplace will be required to pay up. Not 9 Peel Youth Village being paid is an issue reported often by people eating at Knights Table, Peel Region’s only three-meals-a- 13 Me for Mayor day-every-day soup kitchen.” 15 Pay up and work safe your job The delegation noted that in introducing Bill 146, then-Minister of Labour Yasir Naqvi, reported that temp agencies, not the workplace companies, law; search were deemed to be the temporary worker’s employer To encourage Ontario Works and non-profit under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act. agencies to expand their contacts among companies eel Region is taking an in-depth look at how it So any injuries suffered by temporary help agency in search of workers, and provide training in health helps people find jobs. workers in the workplace were attributed to and safety, and other skills, to people in search of Why? temporary employment agencies. work; PBecause Peel Poverty Action Group and Peel Naqvi told the Legislature: “This situation To require detailed reports on hirings resulting Regional Labour Council have told Regional creates a potential incentive for client employers to from job fairs, use of outside agencies, services councillors that some of the practices the Region contract out more dangerous work to temporary provided by Ontario Works and other government follows could put job searchers in harm’s way. help agencies.” agencies operating in Peel; In a presentation to Regional Council, PPAG and Bill 146 would have made the temp agency and To involve representatives of labour unions and labour criticized: the workplace employer both liable for injuries on poverty groups in planning job search services. 1. The Region’s acceptance and support of the job. “third-party contractors” involved in finding Region councillors asked for a report from staff, workers for jobs; Pointing out that Peel Region has been which may be presented in September when Council 2. The problems that “third party” may pose in supportive of studies of precarious work undertaken dissolves for the municipal election taking place who is responsible for safety, pay, training, for PEPSO, Poverty and Employment Precarity in October 27. and other issues; Southern Ontario (see below: How bad is precarious See text of the Hon. Yasir Naqvi’s remarks on 3. A lack of input and oversight in the Region’s employment), the delegation noted that the Region page 15. job search practices. has encouraged recruitment of focus groups PPAG and labour told Council: among residents of Cooksville in Mississauga and “Third-party contractors are essentially job Springdale in . How Bad is brokers – they recruit and hire workers, then send “What has been established so far by a research them to a job site. A billion-dollar U.S.-based team is that precarious work is bad for families, for Precarious company has been working with Peel Region since children, and for the community. January. It was promoted by the Region through a “Research reveals that 40% of workers in the Employment? job fair on June 19, which resulted in three recruits. GTA are precariously employed, so they don’t know recarious employment is bad for you. Bad for “You should know that Peel Regional Labour how much money they will make each week, how your kids. Bad for your friends. Bad for your Council is totally opposed to third-party contractors many hours they will work and when, there are no community. and in fact to temp agencies in all manifestations. benefits like vision or dental care or pensions. And PPrecarious employment is when you work The office of New Democrat MPP Jagmeet Singh, they are afraid to complain. on-call. You have a job today but may have no recently re-elected in Bramalea-Gore-Malton, “We feel that by working with temporary help work tomorrow; No benefits like dental, vision, reports that more than 200 constituents attended agencies, particularly third party contractors, Peel life insurance, or pension plan. No pay if you miss public meetings about an airport service that laid Region is stimulating precarious employment,” the work for any reason. You may not know your work off 50 permanent workers and replaced them with delegation declared. schedule in advance. You know it is a temporary job. temporary workers through a temporary help agency. Delegates asked: You daren’t complain. There was a strike. For the Region to stop working with temporary And here are more questions: Is precarious “The job brokers’ responsibilities to workers, help agencies at least until a new Bill 146 becomes continued on page 15 Meet more municipal Election candidates 2 Tough Times - Summer 2014

Did you Next issue: Fall 2014 know? (Municpal Election Special) Book ad space by Aug. 20 & copy by Aug 27, 2014. We encourage and welcome Peel Poverty volunteer writers, reporters, artists, cartoonists, photographers, Action Group distributors and sales folk to join Peel Poverty Action Group is open to Tough Times. Please email letters to: [email protected] every individual and organization in Down-TurnDown-Turn AbbeyAbbey Peel Region that cares about what Produced by: poverty does to people. Peel Poverty Action Group (PPAG) Tough Times welcomes letters from readers. Writers may use a pen name if they wish. Tough Times needs Editor: It provides a safe place where people to know who you are, so include a phone number and address, but your identity will not be revealed Edna Toth who are cash-poor and those who without your permission. Letters may be edited. Email your letters to [email protected] or try to help them are encouraged to deliver to Knights Table, Brampton. Associate Editor/Graphic Designer: speak out-- and the Tough Times is Ryan Gurcharn a roof over our heads. I thank God every Blame the landlords Graphic Designer: part of that safe place. day. Landlords are creating a shortage of Dalia Emam The Group’s mandate is to advocate places so they can put the prices up to A leak for the taking Contributors: for people in need and to educate pay off the mortgage. Many Canadians are in debt up to their asses. They throw Our townhouse is owned and operated Dalia Emam, Jo-Anna Gould, Lisa the public about poverty issues. together cheap apartments in the city. by Peel Region. The shower in the Lipson, Paula Anne Olthuis, upstairs bathroom leaks into the ceiling Membership is free. Meetings You get into illegal apartments. The Printed by: of the downstairs bathroom. They don’t take place at 9.30 a.m. the second windows are too small. I would not be Metroland Media Group Ltd. able to make it out in emergency. fix it. Thursday of every month alternately in Brampton and Mississauga. Sharing Welcome stranger In some places two or three families live A young man with eyes downcast, www.ppag.wordpress.com together in one apartment so they can barely speaking above a whisper, sat in pay the rent. a corner at Knights Table, all by himself. Then the guests at Brampton’s Advertising Rates Bugs longest-running soup kitchen took over. Tough Times has a minimum press We’ve had bed bugs but I think I’ve One handed him an egg and bacon run of 10,000 copies, distributed finally got rid of them. I’m afraid to visit sandwich; another encouraged him to throughout Peel Region. Homeless: my friends in case I take the bugs with get some coffee; another tried small talk Target audience is people me. . We had the place sprayed several about the weather; another gave him a experiencing homelessness, using times. Once we get rid of the bugs it will pat on the back. foodbanks and soup kitchens, The Video be better. --Angela Francke families who are struggling, plus Spaces and Places: Uncovering Sticky squeak faith groups, social service agencies, Homelessness in the Region of Peel is Flowers for Peel Living Duct tape is used for lots of things. Our trades unions, business people, and a 15-minute DVD in which homeless Peel Living is OK. Peel Region maintenance people think the general public. They provide a home. duct tape keeps mice out. people describe their experiences. To advertise in Tough Times: I have a three-bedroom townhouse It doesn’t. Email: for me and my two children age 24 and A team from Peel Poverty Action [email protected] 14, and I pay 30% of income for it. That Help with jobs Group including a once-homeless Website: www.toughtimestabloid. is 30% of gross pay if I am working, or Lots of people don’t know that Ontario person, will show the video to a wordpress.com 30% of Ontario Works. It is fair. Works will help pay for a Criminal group on request. There is no charge. Phone: 905 826-5041 I grow flowers. It lifts your spirit to Record Check (cost $45) if you need it Mail address: 287 Glidden Road, #4 be able to do something yourself and I for a job application. OW will also help Email ppagactiongroup@ gmail.com Brampton ON, L6W 1H9, Canada am thankful. We have a good property with safety boots, safety glasses. ask to book a showing. Allow about 45 manager, maintenance is done. We have and maybe you will receive. Advertising rates: minutes for the video and discussion. Business card: $75 (colour included) Is the sun rising or falling? 1/16 page: $85 (colour included) The video was made by a team from Some people have all the support in 1/8 page: $100* York University, in cooperation with the world and still cannot cope with 1/4 page: $170* the Social Planning Council of Peel, difficult situations. Some people have 1/2 page: $340* financed by a grant from the Ontario unbearable situations and are able to 3/4 page: $480* Trillium Foundation. Download: rise above it. How can this be? I guess Full page: $620* http://ppag.wordpress.com/spaces- it depends on how we view the world. *Colour $35 extra and-places-video/ If your sun is falling, wait one more day. The sun will rise. A full page is approximately 10 --Francine Sampogna inches wide by 12 inches deep = 120 square inches. | E&OE Tough Times - Summer 2014 3 Social media beats Knights Table Gala nights Table is Peel’s only So here’s an extension: Donate three-meals-a-day, 365-days-a- by August 15, 2014, and your name, safety in sex work year soup kitchen. along with those already in the official program, will be recorded in Tough Facebook page is being used prostitutes who tried to recruit them KMany of you bought tickets, Times’ next issue. to affect sex trade work in to the sex trade, and one man was donated raffle prizes or items for Go to www.knightstable.org/ the Church Street area of incensed about “hookers getting out a silent auction, to raise money at Knights Table’s Feeding our Future gala/registration to make a donation Brampton.A The page says it is “To of cars.” online. Or call (905) 454-8725 to assist the Community of Brampton on Social services in the Church/ gala, held June 6. donate by credit card, or visit Knights the activity on Church Street and how Main area include the John Howard The event did more than raise Table in person. Find out more it impacts the residents.” Society, needle exchange facilities, money – it raised awareness that information at www.knightstable.org. At last check of www.facebook. Regeneration’s free breakfasts every many Peel children live in com/pages/Church-Street- day. These are helping hands that make poverty. And with your Group/1491410691096773?ref=hl the Church Street attractive to people in help it brought in more page contained photos of a friendly need of help. than $50,000 that will dog, a link to notes on discussions Several residents declared that sex provide 1,000 meals a of the law affecting prostitution, and trade workers need protection. Local week for people in Peel a link on getting help with weeds on police said they don’t want to arrest who might not otherwise public property. young men and women because “they eat every day. An email newsletter is also can’t get other work afterwards”. Thanks to promised. Contact booboopepe89@ Peel Poverty Action Group everyone who donated gmail.com to find out more. (producers of Tough Times) said and had their names Missing from Facebook and that sex work is a bigger issue than recorded in the Feeding reports elsewhere: any mention of street nuisance. “Sex work is a poverty our Future official safety for sex workers, or of a drop-in issue,” the organization declared. “You program. centre for prostitutes, although these can’t live on the $600 and change But some of you ideas were raised at a recent public that you get from social assistance or missed the deadline meeting called by Couns. Elaine Moore Ontario Works. We need to harass our for contributions and and Grant Gibson and attended by councillors and have them harass the therefore lucked out on more than 100 local residents. higher levels of government to provide Knights’ Table’s grateful Residents then said that girls a liveable income for people having a thanks. walking to school in the Church Street hard time.” area were accosted by pimps and 1 in 7 people in Peel Helping children live in poverty. time. grieve Bethell Hospice offers end-of-life care to support individuals to stay in By jo-anna gould their homes, and a residential hospice This is unacceptable. osing a parent or someone you when home is no longer an option. love is difficult at any age, but We also offer individual and group for a child it can be life altering. grief and bereavement support to United Way of Peel Region works with local LChildren sometimes blame themselves families and caregivers. Our six-week partners to improve the lives of people struggling for the death. children’s program for children aged in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga by A child’s age will determine the between seven and 11 helps children level of their understanding and how express their feelings through art, providing immediate and lasting solutions that much information to give, but in music and crafts. tackle poverty on many fronts. general, children will accept the facts Services are free, made possible as presented to them and the sooner through funding from the Central West children are told about a death, the LHIN (Local Hospital Integration Learn more at www.unitedwaypeel.org. sooner they can begin to deal with it. Network) and the Bethell Hospice Children may express their grief in Foundation. many ways; acting out, withdrawing, For more information about repeated questioning, regressing to Bethell Hospice and its programs earlier years or an apparent lack of phone 905-838-3534 x2247 or email feelings. [email protected]. Just as all adults react to grief Jo-Anna Gould is Volunteer Services differently, so do children. Children and Community Outreach Coordinator at need opportunities to tell their stories Bethell Hospice. and express their pain in their own Tomes Check out your local library! tonight.” Library staff can tell you where you can find all four youth Recent books by local writers: All libraries in Peel have an shelters in the area. A Hijabi’s Journey to Live Laugh opportunity to contribute. Need help? Your question might be “I’d love and Love, by Interim Place fundraiser Look it up at the library. to get a job; I just don’t know how to Farheen Khan, relates, among other When you were a kid, you went go about it.” Library staff members things, her engagement to a refugee to the library to look at the books and are able to get you started right away, who is being deported – and whom she maybe you joined a summer club to with books on job hunting, writing meet other kids. Back then, it was air- discovers already has a wife. A true your resume and preparing for job story. conditioned, library staff were happy interviews. They can also tell you that Young Lives on the Line – You can to see you and it was all free. the 48 employment centres in Peel make a difference, by Norma Nicholson Do you know what? The library Region can help you get started! contains stories of young people in is still a comfortable place to look Much of this kind of local at books, to get information, to join information can be found at one trouble, not necessarily of their own clubs, to use a computer and it’s still location on the internet called the making. She writes of a Baby Left in a ALL free! Peel Information Network www.peel. Cardboard Box, which is the story of her Your information needs may have cioc.ca. On this website, you can find own start in life; of a girl whose mother’s changed. Now you may have questions detailed answers to these questions as boyfriend raped her; of a boy who hopes that are harder to answer than “where well as plenty more. Feel free to call, to join his dad in jail one day; of a girl are the dinosaur books?” email, drop in and ask at your library! whose parents are violent; and more. Now you might want to know That’s why we’re here; we want to help. Nicholson is a retired nurse, having “Where can I find the nearest food worked in hospitals in Toronto and bank? I need to be able to walk there Mississauga Central Library, Peel, in public health in Peel, for a time with my children.” Library staff can 301 Burnhamthorpe Rd West in charge of health care in the Roy tell you the addresses of all 17 food Mississauga, L5B 3Y3 McMurtry Youth Centre. banks in Mississauga and what times (905) 615-3500 She knows what is needed on the they are open. [email protected] ground: guaranteed longterm funding Or you might say: “I’m just 17. for programs that work for at-risk youth; I have to find a shelter to stay at an approach that explores why kids find trouble; more planning among social services to cover more bases. A list of helping organizations with phone numbers completes a must-have for people involved with young people checks in Something for everyone needing help. By lisa lipson rampton Library offers far zines for 21 days. The Library features more than books! We also not only bestsellers but also large print with a list of links to online discussion will be Elaine Charal, a handwriting have many services, specialized books; audio books and more. materials and has an extended loan analyst. Bprograms and a range of materials to The most popular new release period of six weeks. Specialized computer programs borrow. books and DVDs are also available as Have you attended one of our are available for adults and older adults We offer digital audio books, Lightning Loans, a book or DVD with great Canadian Author Series pro- who would like to hone their comput- e-books, videos and music that you a shorter borrowing period than usual. grams yet? We hold six of these events er skills. Free Internet access is also can download from any computer or Lightning Loan books have a loan each year at the Cyril Clark Branch in available for personal use at all branch- laptop with Internet access. With a period of seven days, while Lightning the lecture hall. Watch our website for es. We offer Chromebooks and free valid library card, you can check out Loan DVDs have a loan period of our next featured author in September. wireless at all branches. and download titles to a personal PC three days and can be found on display On the last Tuesday of every All cardholders have access to a or laptop, or portable device. This is a at all branches. month, from September to June, our wide range of online resources includ- great collection that is available 24/7. Book Club meetings are held popular Senior Series is held at the ing Ancestry.com, Chilton on-line auto With a Library card, customers can every month from September to June Chinguacousy branch. We feature a repair, Reference Canada and more. borrow up to 50 items at a time, in- at six different locations. You can also variety of interesting topics, such as For more information phone (905) cluding movies for seven days, as well run your own book club. Just borrow a “Jazz 101” “Bonsai” and more. Com- 793-INFO (4636) or visit www.bramp- as a variety of books, CDs or maga- book club in a bag set! Each set comes ing up in September our special guest tonlibrary.ca. Tough Times - Summer 2014 5 Enhance the word There is a pain in my heart ability in disability There is a pain in my heart By paula anne olthuis That won’t go away generation ago the disabled walkway or crossover – is the walkway So everyday I think and pray. were considered “special” safe for any of us? Have all the blind and acknowledged for their spots been assessed? Who are you to judge from your pretty little house abilityA to fight their unique challenges. Disabled persons are trained to be Today many changes are lessened by more aware of obstacles in their path. White picket fences more public awareness and technical It is the average person who also uses Two incomes for expenses. advancements. Yes, even society looks the ramps and accessible washrooms I had that life too and gave it up for independence more kindly toward the challenged. who may not immediately consider And yet, while taking a walk or a drive whether they are actually safe from Most women in my shoes in your daily life, how many physically harm. Would be out for sheer vengeance. challenged persons do you see? In For everyone safety and awareness I took the high road, and see where that got me reflection, are the wheel chair parking allows all of us the freedom to live Insolvent and bad credit spaces actually accessible for not only our daily lives to the maximum of Two children less and no child tax benefit. wheelchair bound persons, but persons our abilities. Accessibility and public I’m keeping myself above the poverty line who use canes, walkers, or other awareness benefits our community; our assisted devices? family, our friends and our neighbours. Just barely making ends meet Does the ramp make it easier or Ability increases our independence The worst thing you can do to me more difficult? Can a hearing impaired and our self worth. The choice is easy. Is deny me my freedoms and rights. or blind person walk safely across a The end result is still a challenge. Summarily judged without a fair trial Is no way to treat a mother when your taking away her child. The system is too slow for every waking hour we must suffer. MUNICIPALITIES MATTER! Where are the politicians to object to such injustice Municipal elections in Ontario are set for 27 October. Sipping wine at your functions with the ice sculptures Let’s talk about housing, transit, jobs, schools, and more. Being paid for by my suffering. Let’s elect the right people to councils and school boards. Rhonda Nordlander Tell us about the issues YOU face! Sponsored by Concerned Citizens of Peel, Amateur Poet with Peel Poverty Action Group, Brampton Health Coalition, Council of Canadians – Peel Chapter, Peel Regional Labour Council, Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 966. Fair Vote Canada – Peel Region Phone 416 587-8809 www.concernedcitizensofpeel.org Ask the questions, t es

a Tough Times invites all candidates who have registered to run for mayor learn the answers or councillor or trustee, to email to [email protected] a eel Poverty Action Group and homelessness and provide affordable head and shoulders photo, short biography, and notes on what they see Municipal Matters (part of Peel homes. They discussed the issue, got as poverty issues in Peel, and what they will do about them. Regional Labour Council) are answers to questions and stayed for an CanPeel d i Phosting briefings on poverty issues for hour or more after the meeting to talk all municipal candidates and voters in politics. Michael Freeman Peel. The housing briefing may be Candidate for Councillor, Wards 3 & 4 Brampton The first briefing, on homelessness repeated in Mississauga, and more I am an economist with a degree in public policy currently working and housing, took place at Knights briefings for candidates and the public in the education sector. I sit on the Brampton School Traffic Safety Table, Brampton’s three-meals-a-day will be offered on food security, health, Council as a citizen member. I decided to enter politics to give a voice soup kitchen, on July 24. Nearly 70 jobs, affordable transit. to all residents Poverty is a serious issue in Peel. I will work to attract people attended, saw a 20-minute To be invited to these events, strong jobs to Brampton to battle unemployment. I will advocate for video Spaces and Places: Uncovering please email your name, email address, more balanced and affordable housing from developers. I also support Homelessness in the Region of Peel, phone number, to ppagactiongroup@ public childcare services provided by the Region. I will support the underprivileged and create learned from Peel Region staff about gmail.com, with the word opportunities. Society will be measured by how it treats its most vulnerable. opportunities and plans to alleviate BRIEFINGS in the subject line. 6 Tough Times - Summer 2014

Stan Cameron Penny Batey Seeks re-election as Tustee, Town of Caledon on Peel District School Board Candidate for Regional Councillor, Wards 3 & 4 Brampton I was born and raised in the inner city of Toronto and understand life at Penny Batey describes herself as a dedicated public servant working and below the poverty line. with youth in the community. She promotes youth leadership programs As a school board trustee I have a deep appreciation for the through Brampton Toastmasters, an organization that helps individuals efforts of our school leaders, teachers, staff, parents and children who develop public speaking and leadership skills. offer: breakfast clubs, healthy eating-healthy living events, Cram-The- Penny says more Brampton people are living in poverty as the cost Cruiser, food drives, clothing drives, bed kit purchases for Sleeping of living increases. She suggests people who are better off pass on used/ Children Around the World, opportunities for all students to have access to extra-curricular gently used equipment to the social service sectors and those in need. Organizations such as activities regardless of personal challenges, supporting families, toy drives, Free The Children Brampton-Caledon Community Living which operates a group home, could use furniture. Then participation, and initiatives that focus on caring and inclusiveness. they could budget the money saved to help residents in other ways. Not only do these wonderful programs help children and their families who are struggling, Penny believes that each individual has the right to live a comfortable life within their they also model the caring and empathetic attitude and behaviour that we want to teach all of our means; she advocates preserving the history of downtown Brampton, meeting seniors needs for children. independence, and assisting those with disabilities. I have been a minor hockey coach for 12 years, an In-School Mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel for four years, Parent Council representative at our local schools for over 10 years, Jeff Bowman and currently as a Resident Support Worker in Hospice Care. Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 3 & 4 Brampton rd I’m now in my 33 year of teaching psychology at Centennial College in Scarborough. I was born in Brampton, attended school here, and have lived and Debbie and I have been married almost 34 years and are proud parents of two daughters. worked here for more than 50 years. My wife Tammy and I have sons Jake 26 and Matt 24. GHADA MELEK After working in management and director positions in large Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 6 Mississauga organizations, I started Bowman Training Initiatives in 2005 and “Poverty in Peel requires persistent attention” in 2006 received the Small Business of the Year Award from The Ghada Melek, a candidate for councillor in Mississauga’s Ward 6, Mississauga Business Enterprise Centre. immigrated to Canada in 1990, and earned a mechanical engineering Bowman Training merged with two other independent businesses in 2008 to form degree from the University of Windsor in 1997. She has worked in The Marketing Pad Inc., which has been voted Best Marketing Company in Brampton by the various areas of manufacturing and research, most of it with Deloitte, Business Times. Canada’s largest professional services firm. I volunteer in the community in diverse areas, such as mentoring summer students While raising two daughters and working in a competitive industry, Ghada supported various and small business owners, serving on a lacrosse advisory board, fundraising for the new community and human rights initiatives. Peel Memorial Hospital, a cancer support group, Carabram, Rapport Youth, Rotary, Kiwanis, Her views on poverty: , , and I have coached hockey and lacrosse.  15% poverty rate in the Region of Peel (below the Low Income Cut-Off), is a Wards 3 and 4 are home to several helping organizations including Knight’s Table, staggering percentage that requires persistent attention and collaboration among the Rapport Youth, and the William G. Davis Centre for Families. various levels of government; Between 1996 and 2011, Peel added over 27,000 people a year to its population. But  My goal is to work with Peel Poverty Reduction Strategy Committee to create provincial and federal funding for social services has not kept up, which means many people awareness and advocate for programs and funds that help individuals and families become live in poverty. productive and self-sufficient; Council needs to demand fair funding from both Queen’s Park and Ottawa.  My focus will be on empowering women to become independent by advocating for We need safe and affordable housing and free transit passes for those in need. programs that help small start-up entrepreneurial businesses, offer continuous education and provide occupational training. John Armstrong Hardeep Kalirah Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 2 Mississauga Candidate for Public School Trustee, Wards 2 & 6 Brampton “No corporate money…” “Some students at a disadvantage…” As a long-term homeowner raising my family in Ward 2, I am I have lived in Brampton since 2007 and my wife and I have one committed to providing my neighbours and fellow residents of daughter who will be attending junior kindergarten beginning in Mississauga with the responsible representation they deserve. With September. This is the main motivation for my decision to run for Peel my experience in both the private and broader public sectors, I can District School Board trustee for Brampton Wards 2 and 6. bring a unique perspective to city council. I’ve spent the last six years working in the Utility Sub-metering My career in public relations and marketing led me to a position industry as a Relationship Management Professional. In this role I’ve looked to streamline as Fundraising Coordinator with Peel Children’s Centre over 20 years ago. During my six years processes for the betterment of our client relationships while keeping my employers’ end goals at the children’s mental health services provider, I helped develop initiatives that generated in mind. This is a similar role to that of a School Trustee in that I’ll need to balance the needs and hundreds of thousands of dollars of annual, renewable, non-government funds, enabling the wants of students, parents and school faculty. Centre to provide clinical programs to children and families that would not otherwise have been Poverty Issues - Learning in the 21st century is very different from how we learned 20 or even possible. ten years ago. Technology is a huge factor. Then I spent 13 years as an advertising manager with the Mississauga News where my Peel District School Board facilitates some of its learning by introducing its Bring Your Own teams garnered numerous industry and corporate awards, set several revenue records, and Device policy a few years back. While this policy promotes the use of technology as a tool in established us as one of Metroland’s most successful business units. educating our youth, it puts some students at a disadvantage as some parents may not be able to Municipal elections are the best opportunity for us to influence the decisions that have afford the latest or greatest technology. the greatest effect on our daily lives, and we deserve a voice free of party politics or any outside If elected, I will work with other trustees to increase funding for technology resources, influence. Because of this belief, I will not seek or accept any corporate campaign donations. I ensuring that all students have access to tablets and laptops, regardless of their parents’ income stand for principle-based leadership, fiscal responsibility, and providing a level playing field. level. Tough Times - Summer 2014 7

Linda Jeffrey Rabia Khedr Candidate for Mayor, City of Brampton Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 6 Mississauga Linda Jeffrey was MPP for Brampton-Springdale and Minister of What kind of community do you want to live in 20 years from now? Municipal Affairs and Housing until she quit this year to run for Mayor of Rabia Khedr, running for council in Ward 6, Mississauga, wants Brampton. to deal with the undersupply of affordable housing, increasing Jeffrey says: “When people have safe affordable housing they unemployment, food insecurity. are healthier and their children do better in school. Before I left the “Being blind, I do see things differently,” says Khedr, 38, business Ontario government, I worked to finalize an agreement with the Federal woman with an MA from York University, mother of four. “I listen government to extend the Investment in Affordable Housing program hard. I remember details. I speak truth to power. I want to leverage for another five years. Ontario’s contribution will be $80.1 million these abilities to the advantage of all constituents in Ward 6. I will listen to their needs and annually for five years. concerns. I will speak up in those places where decisions are made. It’s what I’ve always “I believe that I have the experience and proven track record of working with various levels done.” of government to achieve results and get more of Peel Region’s fair share. It’s time to put our Khedr is no stranger to taking the fight to the authorities. children, our families and our seniors at the heart of all decisions that are made in Brampton.” “When a redevelopment project was going to impact the character and quality of life of our neighbourhood, I made sure my neighbours understood that they had a say in the RON STARR application process. The Ontario Municipal Board ruled in our favour.” Seeking re-election for City Councillor, Ward 6 Mississauga Khedr says council must promote integration and diversity to leverage business An engineer with financial and project management background, Ron growth, and must provide the required services and administration. Starr sees these as key issues in Mississauga’s future: “When we live together in a community, we must pay attention to such matters as • Better public transportation and reducing gridlock and congestion created by parked vehicles, ensure that recycling and trash receptacles are congestion; available in high pedestrian traffic areas, enforce noise and traffic bylaws.” • Best value for your tax dollar for all municipal programs; Khedr says voters have two common concerns: “First, it is too hard to get things done; • Accountable, responsible, transparent government. and second, voters want a council that is as diverse as the populace itself.” “Our voices need to be heard at both provincial and federal government About Rabia Khedr - Born in rural Pakistan in 1969, Rabia came to Canada with her levels. All residents deserve a living wage and affordable housing. Peel needs its fair share and parents when she was four. She is married to Hossam Khedr, an IT leader in a financial creative opportunities to support our social services agenda,” he says. company. Priorities among social services: Daycare; Subsidized housing; Transit; Lower income assistance programs; Seniors issues; and a better approach to jobs for both our youth and newcomers. YEVGENIA CASALE Starr has been on the board of Enersource Hydro Mississauga for 30 years, serving in every Candidate for Area Councillor, Ward 2 Caledon office, including chair and president/CEO. He has been a board member and volunteer with Yevgenia Casale is a community organizer, publisher and freelance various charities and community groups, including Mississauga Board of Trade, Credit Valley writer. Hospital Foundation, Mississauga Optimist Club, Living Arts Centre, Interim Place, Art Gallery of Earlier this year she was recognized for her dedication to the Mississauga. community at Caledon’s Volunteer and Citizen Achievement Awards. A Mississauga resident with his family for over 40 years, Starr’s hobbies are fishing, the In her professional career she specializes in document workflow outdoors, and antique cars. and graphic communication management. She believes it is the responsibility of government to ensure that all members of society have what they need to live with dignity and respect. SHARON M. HOBIN She says there are no easy solutions to poverty reduction and probably more questions Candidate for Public School Trustee, Wards 2 & 8 Mississauga than answers to this societal concern. But poverty can be tackled through affordable education, A Catholic school trustee for eight years, and current vice-chair of the effective communication, a renewed focus on youth employment opportunities and finding ways Dufferin-Peel board, Sharon Hobin is seeking re-election inW ards 2 and for seniors to retire in place. 8 in Mississauga. Married with three children, she points out: “My entire working career has been involved with teaching or working in the not- for-profit field.” Hobin is a graduate of St. Mary’s University in Halifax, and a lector ros feldman of St. Ignatius Loyola Parish. Candidate for City Councillor, Wards 2 & 6 Brampton On poverty Hobin notes: “It is a huge challenge for a hungry child to learn and interact. “Give them hope” - Feldman came to Canada in 1972 from Scotland and Hunger brings with it sadness, lack of confidence, fatigue and more.W e have 35 breakfast moved to Brampton in 1977. programs in Dufferin-Peel and have partnered with our local food banks.W e also support St. She says: “I have been actively involved in my community, from our Vincent de Paul, and ShareLife. initial fight with Bell Canada to have local calling rates to Toronto instead “Parent Literacy Centres in some schools in my wards address parent-child literacy in a of long distance, to having door-to-door mail delivery, from having local gentle, friendly and supportive environment. schooling instead of bussing, to getting a recreation centre and library. “Poverty is a massive issue within education. Principals of the schools in my wards make I have been the driving force, with a committee of sometimes only one sure that each child has an equal opportunity to learn and grow. We would never want any child or two. We, with Peter Robertson, had the land put aside for what was to be embarrassed because they could not go on a field trip or have money for supplies. supposed to be our second hospital, not the one and only! “Secondary schools encourage students to stay in school. We now have more hands-on, “About poverty: It is a growing problem in Peel. experience-based subjects to help students think about a career. Youth workers, student success “At one time I taught Life Skills and Training at Sheridan College. That is something I would teachers and social workers assist students. We need more of these professionals. like to see brought back. It is one thing to teach someone returning to the work force after many “The mental health of our students is crucial. We have students who live in shelters or years, to type, or do bookkeeping, but if they turn up for that first interview in baggy pants, hair keep moving from place to place. Schools can provide safety, food, relief and spiritual comfort. unkempt, and with little or no makeup, what are their chances of landing that job? We need to We need more help during summer and winter breaks when students do not have the school as look at the whole person, give them back their pride, make them feel wanted and needed, give support.” them hope.” 8 Tough Times - Summer 2014

Brampton’s “Homeless One of the few things that BY CHRISTINE MASSEY Mississauga and Spikes” any people reacted with disgust above the seat. o t at the recent stories of metal Other anti-homeless measures used share is a sense that

spikes installed on sidewalks in Brampton include bylaws that prohibit p ho seats in shelters Mand ledges in front of buildings in ‘loitering’ between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., or should not be slept Montreal and London, U-K. The spikes, begging without a permit (you can’t make on. These seats installed to discourage homeless people this stuff up) in Brampton parks. ZUM are in a shelter at

from hanging around, were described as bus shelters are equipped with heaters but t i m es ou g h ‘inhumane’, ‘unacceptable’ and ‘stupid’. no doors – incredibly irresponsible from t Argentia and Kitimat Unfortunately, spikes are just one an energy perspective but effective at in Mississauga. See example of measures used to discourage discouraging the homeless from using the the arm rests? No the presence of homeless people. Others shelters as… well, shelter. are less obvious, but no less effective - or People need homes - not dividers and place for a quick kip. offensive. And the City of Brampton bylaws that say they don’t even have the implements some of them. right to lay their weary heads in public ‘Sleep-prevention benches’ are space! common in downtown Brampton and Activists in London reclaimed This is the Victorian Order of presumably throughout the city. Most homeless space by pouring concrete Nurses Peel rose garden in benches have dividers that segment them over homeless spikes. With the aid of Streetsville. The white sign into two or more seats. Some dividers a power tool, Brampton activists could are high enough to masquerade as arm accomplish the same thing on our public asks: “PLEASE do not cut or o rests while others reach only a few inches benches. Not that they should, of course. t remove flowers. These roses have been planted by members Great place to p ho of your community in memory sit, Brampton’s of friends and LOVED ONES.” grass and flowers The seat in the background enhance the doesn’t have spikes or arm rests es t i m es ou g h

neighbourhood. t to make it less comfortable But if you are for a snooze. However, it is homeless, don’t bolted to the ground. It can’t

ine Massey Chris t ine y try to sleep here. be turned to make it a more

o b o Those arm rests private sleeping place. t are built for Pho walking, waking, not for a nap. t isin g Better place to a dv er This is a Brampton be homeless: bus shelter,

s p rin g Vancouver, not a shelter where local for somebody who needs a folk try to shelter from make you homelessness. comfortable. ine Massey Chris t ine y Arm rests put a o b o t kink in the back of f ro m p er m ission wi t h Pho anybody needing a o use d o

siesta. t p ho Tough Times - Summer 2014 9 Peel Youth Village a recreation centre to call home f you are 16 years old and you waiting for up to two-and-a-half months. don’t have a place to stay, you are in Staff try to ensure they have a safe place trouble. to stay until Peel Youth Village can IBut that is the experience of dozens welcome them. of young people every year, right here in When the wait is over, a young Peel. person gets a single room, sharing They’ve left home for some reason kitchen, washrooms and lounge with and they are not going back. They may three others. There are 12 of these sleep in the woods, or in an abandoned foursomes in the Village. house, and eventually may find their way Laundry facilities (with gym, sports to a shelter. courts, and Café) are on the main floor. If they are lucky, they will find Peel It’s the place that has everything. Youth Village. Need a place to live because you have Photographer Sherry Prenevost created these photos of Peel Youth Village. She is The address is 99 Acorn Place in absolutely nowhere else to go? a professional photographer, a winner of a MARTY Award from Mississauga Arts Mississauga, and it’s not just a residence An application form requires an Council. but a community centre with gymnasium, address. It also wants to know if you An exhibition of her work is on show in the second floor Gallery at Mississauga badminton and basketball courts, are involved with the justice system, but cafeteria, open to the public as well as the declares: “… information will not be Central Library until the end of August, and an exhibit on the third floor Gallery people who live there. used against you in your application. This at Central Library is tied to Prenevost’s work – titled Express Yourself, it features Peel Youth Village has 48 single information will help to determine what the photography of three of her students, David Tin, Cassandra Kuzuk, and David rooms, where people ages 16 to 30 who supports will best meet your needs.” Carvalho. don’t have permanent housing can stay Peel Village wants to know your for up to a year. interests, too, as workshops are provided, This commentary of the staircase in Mississauga Civic Centre is Carvalho’s work. To live at Peel Youth Village, you including communication, budgeting, must be a Canadian citizen or landed work, job skills, cooking, fitness (right on immigrant, or convention refugee. And site), volunteering and more. you must have an income, which can be If you are homeless and want in, talk a government allowance such as Ontario to your nearest social service. Works. Or contact Street Helpline Peel at 1 Staff of Peel Youth Village help 877 848-8481which may come to your residents with any health problems aid, but only at these times: including addictions and mental health, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 problems with the law, staying in school p.m. Monday and Wednesday and Friday or going back to school or college or 6 p.m.to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 11 university. a.m. to 3 p.m. Getting jobs is a big part of Peel Alone? Nowhere to go? It’s midnight Youth Village, and like the on-site sports on Saturday? Get a pen or pencil and facilities, the jobs are in the building: something to write on, phone 211 and Peel Youth Village is home away from home – spacious, plenty of places to relax, Residents run The Acorn Café, selling they’ll give you some shelter numbers to study, eat, enjoy. refreshments to people using the facility; call. services such as DC Cleaning; Acorn Another helpful number is 905 278- Catering for special events; Community 9036, operating 24 hours. They have the Painters where you can learn a skilled phone numbers of all Peel shelters. But trade. for youth they recommend contacting But it is not all easy going. Covenant House, in Toronto at (416) 598- Village staff report five to 15 young 4898. people on the waiting list at any time, Snacking in the Acorn Café at Peel Youth Village. Acorn Café full view. 10 Tough Times - Summer 2014

allison BROWN Candidate for City Councillor, Wards 9 & 10 Brampton Candidates find out My name is Allison Brown and I have lived in the city of Brampton for 21 years. I am married and have a daughter 16, and sons aged 19 and 23. I hope to be part of the team that helps Brampton realize its strategic plan. what they need to I am a Registered Nurse with over 20 years experience. I have worked with the Ontario Nurses’ Association at the provincial and local levels. I am a know member of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario and participated eel Poverty Action Group on Peel’s Regional Diversity Roundtable. I’ve also volunteered with such (PPAG) and the labour • 27,000 new residents organizations as Associated Youth Services of Peel, CIA Bounce, and Break movement in Peel want every arrive in peel every year Free Family Counselling Services. Pmunicipal candidate in Peel to know As councillor, I am confident that I will be able to work collaboratively with the mayor and about poverty—what causes it and • 1/3 of peel members of council to promote sustainable development, protection of the natural environment, what they can do about it, whether economic vitality, and healthy communities through innovative and creative ideas. they win election or not. households spend PPAG and Municipalities Matter more than 1/3 of income are jointly organizing a series of on mortgage/rent SHEREZ SIDDIQUI briefings on poverty. All municipal Candidate for Mayor, City of Mississauga candidates are invited, plus their • 12,853 peel Former food bank user runs for mayor of Mississauga supporters and everybody interested in households will wait local politics. Sheraz Siddiqui came to Canada in June, 1998, from Karachi, at least 8 years for Pakistan, where one of his activities was raising money for children Topics will include health, food with special needs. security, transit, jobs, and more. subsidized housing - Jobs in Canada include working as a cleaner, delivery driver, Suggestions are welcome. Email the longest in ontario warehouse helper, customer service and a technician for Rogers [email protected]. cable. • 14,000 households Siddiqui is the single parent of two sons, Andrew age nine, use emergency hostels, and Joshua age seven. He says he used food banks in Mississauga for seven years. “But HOMELESSNESS shelters for victims we have not needed them for two years now.” On poverty: Some Mississaugans are living from pay cheque to pay cheque. That AND HOUSING of family violence or is poverty. transitional housing Basic needs for a family: a place to live – high rents create poverty; a job – even The first briefing – on homelessness annually though you can’t find the job you want; food -- prices are out of control. and housing – took place on a July His plan: freeze rents and bring property taxes down; start five different evening at Knights Table, Brampton’s The numbers: 27,000 new companies to end unemployment; support food banks; ensure that everyday products three-meals-a-day soup kitchen. About residents arrive in Peel every year; a are affordable. 70 people attended, learned about Peel third of Peel households spend more people who are homeless and living than a third of income on mortgage in cars or in the woods, about waiting or rent; 12,853 Peel households will Nokha Dakroub lists for affordable housing, and Peel’s wait at least eight years for subsidized Candidate for Public School Trustee, Wards 9 & 10 Mississauga plans to house more cash-poor people. housing – the longest wait in Ontario; Nokha Dakroub says: “I have always valued contributing to the They also discussed whether and 14,000 households use emergency community and I am passionate about our education system. candidates for council should accept hostels, shelters for victims of family “I’m a social worker and currently work for a not-for-profit donations from developers to help pay violence or transitional housing in a community organization offering settlement services to students in the costs of election. year. the Peel District School Board. I’m responsible for schools in western The briefing opened with a Speakers reported that the Region Mississauga including many in Wards 9 and 10. I help students 15-minute video, Spaces and Places: of Peel invests in affordable housing; and parents navigate the school system and work with school Uncovering Homelessness in the Region of it supports private homes renting out administrations to resolve issues with students. Peel, which includes interviews with basements or other secondary units, “I’m also a psychotherapist with my own practice where I help individuals cope Peel residents who are or have been though landlords must meet safety and with depression, anxiety, eating disorders among other mental health issues. homeless, telling how they cope with other requirements; it subsidizes rents “I have a Master’s degree in Social Work from York University and I will make not knowing from hour to hour where and other expenses for some needy sure your voice is heard at the school board.” they will eat, or sleep, or how long this families. On poverty: “The impact is not merely financial and specific to the individual situation will last. No count has been The Region has found it is less or their family. Poverty impacts the entire community. Federal, provincial and local made of the number of people who expensive in the long run to help a governments need to do more.” are without shelter in Peel. family stay in its home than to let the Born in Lebanon, Nokha was a child when she came to Mississauga with her Adaoma Patterson, advisor to family be evicted. single mother. Peel Poverty Strategy Committee, told Staff and councillors of the She started her career working for various not-for-profit organizations, candidates that poverty is a costly Region lobby the Ontario and federal counselling women facing abuse and helping newcomers settle in Canada. business – in lost productivity, wasted governments for money to provide Nokha has hosted a community television show on Rogers TV, taught courses in skills, higher social service and health affordable housing. social work at a private college and been trained in cognitive behavioural therapy at a care expenses. Jim McDowell, vice-chair of Peel local health centre. Reducing poverty should be Regional Labour Council, presided. She is married and lives with her husband Saad in Mississauga. regarded as an investment. Tough Times - Summer 2014 11 Donations from Peel’s plan to end developers homelessness eel Poverty Action Group or more are reported in candidates’ (PPAG) is opposed to financial statements which are shown WHAT’S NEEDED: municipal candidates accepting on the municipality’s website after the nough housing, enough Pdonations from developers to pay election. money, enough personal help, FACTS ABOUT HOUSING election expenses. No donor may give PPAG is posing this question to easy connections to services more than $750 to one candidate, candidates registered to run in the Elike transit, food, jobs. IN PEEL but may donate to several candidates. municipal election, voting day 27 Housing developments must be Although about 20% of Peel’s The names of all donors of $100 October 2014: safe, encourage active and healthy population rents their homes, only Should municipal candidates accept donations from developers for their communities. 0.4% of housing built by private Residents need schools, shops, election campaigns? developers in 2011 were rental services in walking distance. Some candidates have provided written John Armstrong, running for units. responses: councillor, Ward 2, Mississauga WHAT’S HAPPENING: House prices have increased 74% “As a school trustee we work with developers Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity since 2003. Rents have gone up because of the building of schools on lands build homes to be sold at fair market “Our team is not accepting developer 13.5% in the the last five years. being developed. I have never and will cheques.” value with $0 down and an interest- not take donations from anyone and fund Alan Thompson, running for free mortgage. Non-profits and co-operatives in Individuals and families my own campaign. I do not want to feel mayor of Caledon Peel provided 14,618 homes in encountering mental health problems beholden to anyone. I do feel that there 2013, more than half at subsidized may get help with rent or paying for should be some kind of limitations. Not sure I do not believe candidates should accept utilities – it’s cheaper than helping rents. Meanwhile, more than 12,000 if it should be the “who” or the amount. All campaign donations from developers. To them cope with eviction. households are on a waiting list donations should be of public record.” do so may provide the possible perception Rent-geared-to-income (RGI) for subsidized housing. Peel’s rent Sharon Hobin, running for of conflict of interests, regardless of the subsidies enable people to find private supplement program helped 3,346 Dufferin-Peel Separate School Board intention. I believe government should be housing rather than social housing and households in 2013. in Wards 2 and 8, Mississauga above such conflicts, and provide complete pay the subsidy to the landlord. Median house price in Peel in 2011 transparency in all financial aspects. (From Peel Housing and Homelessness was $371,500. Average monthly There shouldn’t be any donations at all, Drew Reidstra, running for Plan – A Community Strategy 2014- rent was $1,967. because the cost to run in a municipal city council in Brampton Wards 2 and 6 2024. www.peelregion.ca/housing/ election including registration, campaigning housinghomelessness/pdfs/Peel-Housing-and- Homelessness-Plan-110.pdf. Shelters provide 492 beds, used by and signs is very low. A working person The problem is whether accepting a donation about 14,000 people a year. should be able to afford that easily. Provides details on expectations with from any business puts the candidate in the timelines.) Sheraz Siddiqui, running for pocket of whomever made the donation. mayor of Mississauga Such a situation compromises the integrity of North Peel Free legal services for low income residents of the role as a representative of the people. It’s Brampton, Caledon, and Dufferin County. Problems with “Regarding the question of municipal up to each candidate to decide for themselves & Dufferin your landlord? Is your rent subsidy threatened? Was candidates accepting campaign donations if taking donations from developers is in Community Legal your application for Ontario Disability Support Program from developers, I am firmly against it their best interests, and the interests of the Services benefits denied? Problems with Ontario Works? Call Us! and will not be seeking or accepting such residents. 905-455-0160 Toll Free from Dufferin 1-866-455-0160 [email protected] donations during my candidacy.” Kevin Montgomery R.G.D. Don’t Go Hungry. If you are struggling to make ends meet, have to choose between paying rent or buying food, or have more bills than income... The Mississauga Food Bank is here to help you. Anyone in need and living in Mississauga can use a neighbourhood food bank or other member agency regardless of age, sexual orientation, race, religion, gender or immigration status. Visit www.themississaugafoodbank.org/getfood or phone 905.270.5589 to find a member agency near you. 12 Tough Times - Summer 2014

Peel Regional Labour Council Invites you to the

3rd Annual PRLC Labour Day Picnic

Join us for a day of Summer Fun and Barbecue

games and activities for kids and adults Saturday August 30, 2014 Noon to 4:00 PM (food served till 2:00 PM) Eldorado Park 8520 Creditview Road, Brampton (Creditview, just north of Steeles) HAPPY LABOUR DAY A non-perishable food donation for the Knights Table would be greatly appreciated Tough Times - Summer 2014 13 ME FOR MAYOR These folk are also in the running for mayor of Mississauga: Scott E. W. Chapman Dil Muhammad Riazuddin A. Choudhry Derek Ramkissoon Kevin Jackal Johnston Mike Shoss Masood Khan Sheraz Siddiqui Stephen King Photos and biographies of candidates may run in the next issue of Tough Times. Bonnie Crombie Steve mahoney

Mississauga is a prosperous city, but not all residents share in our prosperity. Making life affordable and providing a stable investment climate in which businesses can create jobs are fundamental responsibilities of a mayor and council, and they are my priorities in fighting poverty in our city. That’s why, in my Blueprint for an Even Stronger Mississauga, I have Bonnie Crombie, councillor for Ward 5 (Malton and Britannia Woods) since outlined a plan to keep Mississauga affordable and to build a local economy that 2011, and Liberal MP for Mississauga-Streetsville before that, is running for creates jobs and expands opportunities for everyone. mayor of Mississauga. On poverty issues, she points out that in Mississauga over As mayor I will: 59,000 people use food banks every month -- and many of these people have Hold the line on property taxes to ensure that our city is affordable for a post-secondary education. “The face of poverty is changing and the working residents. This is particularly important for seniors, many of whom have been in poor are now increasingly well-educated but cannot find employment substantial their homes for decades, but are finding it increasingly difficult to remain there enough for them to make ends meet.” due to increasing property taxes. The number of children living in poverty has climbed over 20 per cent, and Create youth employment opportunities, particularly for at-risk youth, 40 per cent of seniors living alone live in poverty. a MississaugaFutures youth mentorship and experiential learning program “Wait time for affordable housing in Peel Region is growing, up to 12 years connecting high school and post-secondary students to opportunities with the for families, making the wait time in Peel the longest in Ontario. And we risk City of Mississauga and Mississauga businesses. losing a generation of youth as the unemployment rate for youth in Peel is Deliver a practical and comprehensive transit strategy to move people across, about 20 per cent, much higher than the provincial average. Whether because of through and beyond our municipal borders safely and efficiently. Having easy insurmountable student debt or an economy that is changing, young people are access to affordable, reliable public transportation is essential. struggling to find jobs and start building their lives,” she says. Work with our local, provincial and federal partners for new funding for Crombie promises that as mayor, she will address poverty by: affordable rental housing, and work with mayors across Canada to persuade the • Attracting new business to create well-paying, stable jobs in Mississauga; federal government to re-commit to affordable housing, including restoring the • Ensuring rapid transit is built and accessible across the city; federal social housing funding slated to end in 2031. • Co-operating with local businesses, Sheridan College and the University Fight for vital community services by actively supporting the work of the of Toronto-Mississauga, to ensure that graduating youth are matched Fair Share Peel Task Force to ensure that our provincial and federal partners with Mississauga businesses; deliver the social services and community health funding required for our • Helping settlement agencies to ensure new immigrants are swiftly growing population. integrated into our community; Create opportunities for newcomers to Canada and Mississauga by • Advocating for investments in affordable housing by federal and provincial governments and Peel Region, and ensuring that homeowners establishing the Office of the Ambassador to support newcomers and leverage with second units bring them up to code to provide safe housing established communities to create jobs by increasing Mississauga’s global options; economic and social reach. • Working with local poverty groups to ensure they have essential I have fought for youth employment opportunities, public transit, affordable resources and that their recommendations are implemented where housing, and strong community services my whole life, both as an elected possible; representative and a community volunteer. I understand the struggles facing • Acting with the food banks across the City, as I have with the Seva Food many of our neighbours, particularly seniors and newcomers. Bank in Malton, to ensure they can reach residents who need assistance. Making sure that all of us share in our prosperity is not an easy job. It As Mayor, I will institute an annual city-wide food drive. requires strong and experienced leadership to bring the communities, businesses, She has been vice-chair of Mississauga Mayor’s Task Force on the Arts, served non-profits and all levels of government together to create an environment on the boards of charitable and not-for-profits including Credit Valley Hospital where every one of our neighbours can achieve their full potential. Foundation, Peel Region 11th Division Police Community Liaison Committee, As your mayor, I will provide the leadership needed to create opportunity the Canadian and Ontario Brain Injury Association, and Arts Umbrella. She and make Mississauga the best place to live, work, and raise a family. received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for her work in the community. Crombie speaks French, Polish and Ukrainian. 14 Tough Times - Summer 2014 continued from frontpage minimum wage; social assistance, Meanwhile, nothing in the law has make sure that workers go home to employment bad for your banker working income tax benefit, basic changed. The problems that Naqvi their families at the end of theirs. That if you can’t pay the mortgage? Bad annual income; Getting to know the mentions continue. This is what is what people expect when they go for your landlord if you can’t pay people affected; Teaching financial Naqvi said when Bill 146 – Stronger to work or their co-op placement, and the rent? Bad for your grocer if you literacy in schools; Stabilized funding Workplaces for a Stronger Economy that is what they deserve. can’t buy food? Bad for the stores in for community groups; Promoting -- was first presented: Speaker, Ontario has very clear your neighbourhood if you can’t buy the Canada Learning Bond for post- Our government is committed to rules. If you’re performing work for clothes, furniture? Bad for the vehicle secondary education; Secure housing, standing up for Ontario’s workers, and someone, you are entitled to rights industry if you can’t buy a new car, or affordable transit; Immigrants and that means strengthening workplace and protections under both the pay to insure the car you’ve got? temporary foreign workers must be protections and increasing fairness for Employment Standards Act and the A study of Precarious included in discussions; Immigration both employees and businesses. Occupational Health and Safety Act. Employment Policy Options published policy should re-focus on permanent People in this province work hard, That means you must be paid at least in May this year by PEPSO, Poverty immigration – families re-united, and at the end of their shift or rounds minimum wage, no matter what your and Employment Precarity in Southern and refugees; improved credential they deserve to be paid for that work. job title is or what you agreed to when Ontario, and titled It’s more than poverty recognition; Better enforcement of If they are operating a business, they you started working there. – employment precarity and household well- employment standards, not reliant on deserve to know that their competitor The only exceptions are people being included residents in Cooksville worker complaints; Extended health is not undercutting them by not paying who are self-employed, trainees or and Springdale in Brampton in focus benefits; Better pensions; Invest in their workers. co-op students, or unpaid learners groups, finding out exactly what training; Local governments should Unfortunately, right now there performing work for course credit as happens when families don’t have a buy local; Labour involvement: are both time and monetary limits part of a high school, university or reliable income. make certification of unions easier; on claiming unpaid wages, so we are college of applied arts and technology Among the bad things that extend collective agreements to making it easier for workers to get the program. happen: worries about income cause temporary workers; ban temporary money owed to them by proposing We know that co-op students anxiety at home, families cease to workers during strikes; industry-wide to remove the $10,000 cap under the already have the right to a safe be involved in the community, they bargaining; providing a safe place Employment Standards Act on the workplace, and the Ministry of Labour lose friends to chat to, friends to help for precarious workers to complain; recovery of unpaid wages through a has strong rules in place to ensure that with small jobs, sharing meals; and National childcare strategy through Ministry of Labour order to pay. all workplaces, including these co-op the unknown work schedule prevents non-profits; better pay for childcare That means employees would work placements, are safe. But they do activities with friends. workers. no longer be forced to pursue large not have individual protections, and For children with parents in Precarious work, precarious living, claims through the courts, saving that is not right. This bill, if passed, insecure jobs, can they buy school remains on the agenda. both workers and businesses time and would extend the coverage of the supplies, pay for school trips and other PEPSO, based at McMaster money. If passed, Ontario will also Occupational Health and Safety Act activities, and when the parents’ work University Social Sciences, is working increase the time limit for recovery to co-op students, trainees and other schedule is unknown, can parents on it. of wages under the Employment unpaid learners, ensuring that they attend school meetings, or volunteer You may want to work on it too. Standards Act to two years, so older have the same individual rights and for other school activities? Continuing its research, PEPSO wants claims are dealt with fairly and workers protections as other workers. This For the entire family, paying for to arrange 30-minute interviews with a get the money they are owed. absolutely makes sense. food and other essentials from an selection of people living in Cooksville Our proposed legislation would To help proactively protect unpredictable income is a big worry. or in the Springdale area of Brampton. require employers to provide a free workers, this bill would also give the What to do? PEPSO is trying to There are small rewards. Contact Employment Standards Act handout Ministry of Labour the authority to find out. Who should be involved? Hannah Atom at 647 859-2474. to employees. A translation would require self-audits of safety standards Government, the private sector, labour, also have to be provided in a language to extend our protections to more the community.What are the barriers requested by the employee, if available workplaces. Workers should never be to making change? Under-funding, from the Ministry of Labour. asked to do the most dangerous jobs political will, other concerns. These new protections, if passed, based on whether they are recruited Possibilities: Community Benefits Pay up will better protect workers recruited through a temporary help agency. Agreements -- for instance a company through temporary help agencies Currently under the WSIB’s might agree to hire local workers. by establishing joint and several experience rating program, an injury to The provincial government can and work liability between agencies and their a temporary help agency worker that change the law affecting temporary job clients for failure to pay wages. This occurs at a client employer’s workplace agencies. Bill 146 (Stronger Workplaces for safe will help level the playing field for is attributed to the temporary help a Stronger Economy Act) died when the good employers. Clients of agencies agency, not the client employer. This provincial election was called, but may Labour demands would be liable for regular wages and situation creates a potential incentive be re-introduced; the bill would make better deals for overtime pay if the agencies don’t pay for workers to be contracted out, as agencies, and employers who contract workers up, encouraging those companies to I mentioned. We are correcting this with agencies, jointly responsible for use agencies that treat employees fairly. through this proposed legislation. unpaid wages, and Bill 146 made other on. Yasir Naqvi, former We also know that safe workplaces At its heart, this legislation is requirements for the workplace; Minister of Labour in come down to people looking after about making sure workers get paid A publicity campaign to alert the Ontario government, one another. The Ministry of Labour for the work they have done and giving Hintroduced Bill 146, which did not business and workers to problems, has been undergoing its largest businesses that play by the rules a especially the damage to the economy become law because the provincial transformation in the last 30 years, competitive advantage. We can and of consumers with no money to election was called. But the office of creating a culture that puts health must work together to protect the spend. Kevin Flynn, the current Minister of and safety at the centre of every most vulnerable workers. Policies discussed: Higher Labour, says it will be presented again. workplace—because our job is to Tough Times - Summer 2014 15

MEET PEEL’S FUTURE LEADERS Candidates for mayor debate the issues

Brampton Mississauga Thursday, 4 September, 2014 Thursday, 11 September, 2014 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. Networking 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. Networking 6: 30 – 8:30 p.m. Candidates for Mayor of Brampton 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Candidates for Mayor of Mississauga MC: Avi Rakhra MC: Dev Ramsumair Living Arts Centre Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archive 4141 Living Arts Drive 9 Wellington Street East Mississauga (at Square One) Brampton (at Main Street) Free underground parking Free parking under , John Street Admission is free accessible parking on request

Phone 905-890-7097 for more info Hepatitis C

Treatment, Care & Support Is Available You can be at risk if: 

Sharing of personal care and hygiene items such as razors,

 toothbrushes, clippers and scissors with someone living with  hepatitis C Sharing needles used for body tattoos and piercings. Re-using and sharing tattoo ink and ink pots

 Sharing drug equipment such as needles, filters, tourniquets, water, syringes, cookers, alcohol swabs, acidifiers

 Receive blood and body organs that have not been screened for hepatitis C. Even in Canada, if you received blood and organ donations before 1990 you may be at risk. Contact:Involved in medical procedures including immunization in hepatitis C endemic countries Bloom Clinic Call today for information or 40 Finchgate Blvd. Suite 224 to book a free test. Brampton, ON L6T 3J1 Phone: 905-451-6959 | [email protected] 905-791-7800 Visit peelregion.ca

Unstable work Youth Employment impacts families Logistics Program The Youth Employment and Logistic Program provides vulnerable youth and community life with six weeks of pre-employment and life skills training, two weeks of job specific skills training and seven weeks of structured job search. In partnership with community and industry supporters, the Region of Precarious Employment Peel will deliver three, seventeen week sessions. is employment that lacks benefits and security and is This program is intended for unemployed youth, under the age of 29, often short-term job contracts, who want full time employment in the logistics industry. Participants temporary positions, low must be a Canadian citizen or have landed status. pay, limited work benefits, poor working conditions, Recruitment for the next available session will begin in August 2014. To fewer opportunities for career register for a general Information session, call 905-793-9200 ext. 8780 advancement, reduced entitlement to ongoing or email [email protected] employment and limited control over work schedule. Funding Provided by the Government of Ontario The Precarious Employment and Poverty in Southern Ontario (PEPSO) research initiative is a community-based research study that invites you to share your experiences in interviews and focus groups.

The research team wants to better understand: • How residents are impacted by their inability to work and earn enough money to support their livelihoods; • How service providers, community services and programs are impacted; and • Residents’ knowledge of available community

resources and programs in the Region and their FHE-0222_Layout 1 13-05-16 2:30 PM Page 1 effectiveness.

Are you between 18 and 64 years old?

Do you live, work or provide services in the Cooksville area with a postal code starting L5A or L5B or in the Springdale area with postal code starting L6R or L6Z?

IF SO, BE AN IMPORTANT PART OF INFORMING POLICIES AND SERVICES FOR YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD!

If you are a member of the Business Community, your voice on these issues also needs to be heard.

For more information, please contact Hannah Atom at [email protected] or by phone at 905-602-3650 ext. 3646.

HUM-0456 14/04