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@toughtimestabloid • Find us online at ToughTimesTabloid.ca Vol. 8 No. 5/ SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER, 2019

(election Monday, October 21) HOW TO SAVE HEALTH CARE are invited, plus local councillors, What the experts say health workers, and members of Peel Health Coalition public meeting the public. Anybody with a health Sunday September 29, 2019 at 2 p.m. care story can tell it here. Terry Miller Recreation Centre 1295 Williams Parkway, Brampton HELP Here are some facts about health care in Canada: Contact: Richard Antonio 647 237-5235 • 3.5 million Canadians are [email protected] struggling to pay for their pre- scription drugs; • one in five Canadians does not have access to dental insurance; Peel Human Services Network SAVE • many Canadians are charged extra fees and pay out-of- Quiz the candidates pocket for medically necessary on poverty, hunger, housing health services; and more –public meeting • mental health and long term care needs are hugely underfunded. Wednesday, October 9, 7 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. HEALTH CMHA Peel Recovery West We also know that Peel wel- 601 – 7700 Hurontario Street, Brampton comes newcomers from all over Phone 905-270-5589 Canada and from all over the world. As it should. Yet our rapidly growing pop- CARE ulation is not receiving the health supports it needs. INSIDE THIS ISSUE JOIN PEEL HEALTH COALITION The City of Brampton is circu- lating a petition which points out Brampton Coun. Jeff Bowman that per person, Brampton receives on housing P3 eel Health Coalition (PHC) for health care, with provincial $1,000 less in healthcare funding is a non-partisan network governments handling the cash. than the provincial average; P of community members, The Ford government in Ontario Brampton has 55% fewer hos- Policies for The People — agencies, healthcare professionals, has plans to change how it spends pital beds than other Ontario cities; or not? P5 frontline workers and activists, our health care money. Brampton faces exponential who want to improve the health- We need to talk about it. growth – 14,000 people move to Labour at work P8 care system in Peel and in Canada, Peel Health Coalition has called Brampton every year, and the City and who want to keep our health- a meeting for Sunday, September needs more healthcare resources to care system in public hands, under 29, 2019 at 2 p.m., at the Terry support this growing population. Homeless and hungry — public control. Miller Recreation Centre, 1295 Brampton’s petition asks the where to find help P10 Currently, the federal govern- Williams Parkway, Brampton. See “Health Care”, page 2 ment uses our tax money to pay All MPPs, MPs and candidates YES, YOU HOMELESS? CAN VOTE SEE PAGE 11 2 Tough Times – September-October, 2019

PEEL POVERTY ELECTION ACTION GROUP Tough Times is published QUIZZING THE CANDIDATESI six times a year Next issue: November-December, 2019 Peel Poverty Action Group (PPAG) Deadline for ads and editorial: October 1, 2019 is open to every individual and What’s ahead Phone 905-826-5041 organization in Peel Region that Volunteer writers, reporters, artists, cares about what poverty does cartoonists, photographers, are to people. It provides a safe place for the cash-poor? welcome at Tough Times. where people who are cash-poor Please email letters to: and those who try to help them he Mississauga Food Bank, which provides more than 242,000 free meals a [email protected] are encouraged to speak out – month to hungry people in Peel, is organizing a meeting where candidates Produced by: and Tough Times is part of that T in the October 21 federal election can listen, learn, and speak. Peel Poverty Action Group (PPAG) safe place. PPAG’s mandate is to Meghan Nichols, executive director of the food bank, reports: Editor: Edna Toth advocate for people in need and to “We are forming a coalition of non-partisan Peel-based human services Associate Editors: organizations to host a debate about issues affecting low-income, marginalized, Michelle Bilek, Rosemary Keenan educate the public about poverty Chris Fotos issues. Membership is free. PPAG and vulnerable populations.” The coalition – Peel Human Services Network -- will call on candidates and Graphic Designer: Patti Moran meets at 9:30 a.m. to noon, usually parties “to make Canada a fair, equitable, and inclusive place where all our neigh- Contributors: the second Thursday of every month Huda Abbas, Richard Antonio, Navi Aujla, Kay bours can thrive.” (except July and August) alternately Bajaj, Samina Bangash, Michelle Bilek, Laura Bilyea, The debate “will provide an opportunity for those who care about their vul- Dr. Simon Black, Coun. Jeff Bowman, Jaspal Brar, in Mississauga and Brampton. Brampton Mayor, Patrick Brown, Taodhg Burns, nerable neighbours and issues such as poverty, food insecurity, mental health, and Coun. George Carlson, Shaila Kibria Carter, Surabhi housing, to hear federal parties’ plans to address these challenges.” Das, Dr. Paula De Coito, Nikki Clarke, Patricia Chris- Meeting dates for 2019: Social service organizations are invited to send questions, which will be sub- john, Doris Cooper, Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Mississauga. at the Newcomer Centre of Crombie, Bob Delaney, Jack Fleming, Moushumi Peel, 165 Dundas St. W., (at Confederation mitted to election candidates in advance, for discussion at the event. Hakrabarti, Linda Hochstetler, Jack Jackson, Parkway); Nov 14. The meeting takes place Wednesday, October 9, from 7 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., Jerry Jarosz, Sylvia Jones, MPP; Laura Kaminker, Rosemary Keenan, Shalini Konanur, Deb Kuipers, Brampton at the CMHA Peel Recovery West, 601 – 7700 Hurontario Street, Brampton. Stephen Lay, Alexandra MacGregor, Harinder Oct. 10 and Dec. 12, venue to be announced. Phone 905-270-5589 Malhi, Julia Margetiak, Pat McGrail, Archana Medhekar, Brenda Murdoch, Varsha Naik, Norma Organizations already part of the coalition include: The Mississauga Food Nicholson, Kimberly Northcote, Maria Pangilinan, Bank, Tough Times, Peel Poverty Action Group, Canadian Mental Health Karen Ras, Christianne Reyna, Monica Riutort, Ma- rina Rosas, Ruby Sahota, MP, Lea Salameh, Farina Association – Peel, Catholic Family Services of Peel, Indus Community Services, Salahuddin, Liisa Schofield, Chris Sensicle, Subash Ontario for All, Knights Table, Vita Centre. Sharma, Sara Singh, MPP; Bret Sheppard, Coun. Ron Starr, Susan Stewart, Anna Sycz, Chelsea Tao, Advertising Pauline Thornham, Rozeeta Torbram-Jarvis, Martin Tsvetanov, Edesiri Udoh, Kate Vinokurov, Suraiya Wajih, Jessica Wang, Grazyna Wiercinska, Emily Rates Health care, cont. from page 1 Wiles, Coun. Charmaine Williams, John Wilson, Rod Woolridge, Cheryl Yarek, staff members of Tough Times distributes 10,000 Ontario government: tractions, to dentures. the Region of Peel.Cheryl Yarek. copies, throughout Peel Region. • to provide immediate funding Healthy workplaces are also on the Printed by: Atlantic Web Printers to pay for the increasing volume CHC agenda, encouraging safety on Target audience is people experiencing homelessness, using of visits to Urgent Care at Peel the job. food banks and soup kitchens, Memorial Centre; Tests and treatment support is avail- people who are struggling, • to fund completion of Phase 2 at able for HIV and Hep C. Homeless: plus faith groups, social service Peel Memorial Centre; People with diabetes can be trained agencies, trades unions, business • and to build a third health care facil- in using insulin, and advised on diet, people, and the general public. ity in Brampton. and more. The Video To advertise in Tough Times: Community Health Centres claim Spaces and Places: Uncovering Email: That’s Brampton’s story. that they cut down on unnecessary Homelessness in the Region of Peel [email protected] But right across Peel, other diagno- visits to hospital Emergency units by is a 15-minute video in which Phone: 905 826-5041 ses and cures for health care are on the teaching health in neighbourhoods. homeless people describe their experiences. A team from PPAG, Mail address: 4-287 Glidden Road operating table. You can find out more at Bramalea including a once-homeless person, Brampton, ON L6W 1H9, Canada Community Health Centres (CHC) Community Health Centre, Four will show the video to a group on Advertising rates: (colour included) – four of them in Peel – have doctors, Corners Health Centre, Bloom Clinic, or request. There is no charge. Business card: $105 nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, chi- phone 905 451-6959; East Mississauga To book a showing contact 1/16 page: $125 ropodists, social workers, to help regis- Community Health Centre at Dixie and [email protected] 1/8 page: $190 Allow about 45 minutes for the tered clients. Dundas, phone 905 602-4082. video and discussion. 1/4 page: $280 Illness prevention programs include 1/2 page: $460 exercise and wellness activities, youth Material for health articles is drawn from The video was made by a 3/4 page: $650 team from York University, in drop-ins, teaching self-management to several sources, including the Region of Peel, Full page: $810 cooperation with the Social individuals with chronic diseases. members of Peel Poverty Action Group, Peel Planning Council of Peel, financed A full page is approximately 10 inches wide Basic dental treatment is available Health Coalition, Ontario Health Coalition, by a grant from the Ontario by 12 inches deep = 120 square inches. E&OE to eligible clients, from fillings to ex- Institute for Health Care Improvement. Trillium Foundation. Tough Times – September-October, 2019 3 Affordable housing must be Brampton’s top priority

BY JEFF BOWMAN fordable housing strategy called “Housing Brampton” in response to the varying housing needs of our res- or me, the issues of affordable housing, home- idents and to improve the housing options for all lessness and poverty are not something to think Bramptonians. F about when its election time or out making With its work plan endorsed by City Council in campaign speeches. It’s something I think about con- 2017, Housing Brampton will serve as a road map to stantly and actively work on every day. increase the supply of rental and affordable owner- As a City Councillor for Brampton’s Wards 3 and ship units. 4, I know all about the ongoing problems people face It will provide a “made in Brampton” approach in finding a safe and affordable home for their family. that looks at local housing preferences and demo- And like other cities across Canada, it’s getting harder graphics, like the contrast between Brampton’s young and harder to find a home that is suitable and fits your and aging populations, and the current trend toward economic means. multi-generational families. According to the Region of Peel, there are cur- The Region of Peel is the local housing authority rently over 18,500 individuals who accessed emergen- that provides affordable rental units, while the City of cy shelters in 2017 within Peel, with 13,597 individuals Brampton is responsible for land use planning. on a centralized housing waitlist – of that number, Housing Brampton will focus on developing more Jeff Bowman receives an award from Knights Table 3,432 are Brampton residents. That means you can affordable rental and ownership housing units. The board member John Spry, at Knights Table’s annual wait up to 6.5 years for an affordable house. City will work with residents, builders and developers, gala. (Photo supplied) Within Brampton alone, there are currently 172 community stakeholders, and other levels of govern- shelter and transitional beds, and only 3,386 social ment to develop a strategy that responds to the cur- and Sheridan College on the demand, supply and type housing units. rent and future housing needs of Brampton residents. of housing available. To me, that’s unacceptable in a city like Brampton A Housing Needs Assessment was completed in City of Brampton staff are looking into the de- – the ninth largest city in Canada. June 2018 to provide a better snapshot of the current velopment of an Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) program, We must do better because we can do better. housing contexts and needs within Brampton. That which would allow the City to require a portion of any In assessing Brampton’s needs, we know that was followed by a Seniors’ Housing Study, endorsed new development to be dedicated to affordable hous- youth homelessness is a growing issue, with low and by Brampton City Council in January this year, and ing units; and additional benchmarking will be under- middle-income families continuing to struggle with includes case studies, a methodology for identifying taken relating to the development of affordable hous- affordability. sites throughout the City suitable for seniors housing, ing tools and incentives which will be brought forward Statistics Canada confirms that in 2016, the aver- and key recommendations to promote diverse hous- for Council’s consideration by the end of this year. age Canadian household spent 24% of its income on ing options. Public consultation will be a key part of this strate- shelter. When you break down that figure into the cit- An Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, gy and is expected to start soon. Stay tuned for infor- ies that make up the Region of Peel, Brampton is the made up of stakeholders, developers and various mation on how to get involved. biggest loser with 34%, while Mississauga is at 31% levels of government, has been formed to support In the meantime, if you have comments or ques- and Caledon is 22%. the development and implementation of Housing tions about the strategy, I welcome your input. On top of that, 31.1% of homeowners in Brampton. Brampton cannot afford the cost, with an average As part of the City’s review of rental policies, a Jeff Bowman is Brampton City Councillor for Wards 3 and homeowner paying $1,869 a month. Student Housing Policy Review will assess the impacts 4. You can email him at [email protected] or phone The City of Brampton is developing its first af- of post-secondary institutions like Ryerson University him at 905-874-2603

NEED FOOD? Don't Go Hungry If you don't have enough money for food and live in Mississauga, you can go to a neighbourhood food bank. It doesn't matter about your age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or immigration status. You will receive enough healthy food to feed your family for 7-10 days each month. There is no cost to visit a food bank. Find your food bank at www.themississaugafoodbank.org or phone 905.270.5589. 4 Tough Times – September-October, 2019 How Brampton’s health care is starved COMPARISON WITH OTHER CITIES

BY EDESIRI UDOH ease prevention, health equity, and com- motion, and community wellbeing. It is Hamilton (Charlton and West 5th munity involvement. Not walk-in clinics. community-centred, actively addresses Locations), McMaster Children’s ntario’s healthcare system in- Comprehensive primary health care the social determinants of health, and Hospital, McMaster University Medical cludes: primary care, mental addresses the main health problems of demonstrates commitment to health Centre, St. Peter’s Hospital, Main Street O health care, home and com- the community, providing promotive, equity and social justice. West Urgent Care Centre (UCC), West munity care, secondary care -- Hospitals preventive, curative and rehabilitative ser- Only 30% of Ontarians have access Lincoln Memorial Hospital. and Emergency (ER). vices to maximize health and wellbeing. to interprofessional primary care teams, London, Ontario, with a population We need to look at the whole spec- Primary health care models are: though evidence shows teams deliver of about 400,000, has one CHC with trum. Community Health Centres (CHC), the best health outcomes. two locations and three hospitals. To be more proactive and more pre- Family Health Teams, Aboriginal Health In Brampton, only 17% of the pop- Brampton and in Ontario generally, ventive, we need to look at our primary Access centres, Nurse Practitioner- ulation has access to interprofessional the health system needs more resourc- health care system, including services led clinics, provide interprofessional primary care teams, well below the pro- es to keep people healthy in the com- delivered to individuals and communities primary care, Integrates services and vincial average. munity and their homes… We need to with a focus on health promotion, dis- programs in primary care, health pro- Brampton has only one community equip what we have and build upon health centre and one family health team, preventive models such as primary one hospital, and one urgent care facility. care, mental health, home and com- THE PEEL PICTUREI Comprehensive primary health care munity care. – not hospitals and emergency rooms – should serve as the bedrock of the Statistics from Brampton Council’s Designer health health system in Ontario. The hospital Fair Deal Brampton petition: model is the most expensive of all. This Brampton Civic ED, built for 90,000 The Region of Peel is reimagining how our communities are designed. healthcare transformation is based on visits a year, receives 130,000 actual The picture emerging is neighbourhoods where biking to work is more ‘Quadruple Aim’: better patient and visits a year; Peel Memorial funded for convenient than driving, playing outside is more fun than screen or phone population health outcomes; better pa- 10,000 visits a year, receives actual visits time, and key amenities are a short walk away. tient, family and caregiver experience; of 75,000 a year; only 17% of residents Fresh, healthy food is available, there’s easy access to green space and better provider experience; and better have access to an interdisciplinary pri- ways to be active. value. mary care team; Brampton is forecast Today, 85% of Canadian adults and 93% of children do not get the rec- Brampton has a population of al- to have the highest dementia rate in the ommended level of daily physical activity. This is mostly due to changes in most 600,000 (593,638). province between 2015-2022; and 38% our modern lifestyle. People work in more sedentary jobs, spend more time Other cities compared to Brampton in of the population aged 12+ has one or in cars and feel less safe letting children play outside. population size are Hamilton (690,000), more chronic conditions. Busy lifestyles, the rising costs of healthy meals and the wide range of fast Kitchener- Waterloo (470,000). food restaurants inspire us to eat on the go, leading to more obesity and diabetes. Hamilton has five Community Next steps: Peel Region is working with municipalities and developers to create neigh- Health Centres, 10 hospitals (in- Build on what we have ongoing from bourhoods that are walkable, bike-friendly, close to services such as public cluding satellite locations) and one the City of Brampton campaign. transit, stores, jobs, safe sidewalks and direct roads, and that will house peo- hospital for mental health (Chedoke Advocate for the whole spectrum ple of varied incomes. Hospital, Hamilton General Hospital, of healthcare funding. Areas need sidewalks, benches, bike racks, bike lanes, safe intersections, Juravinski Cancer Centre, Juravinski trees and attractive landscaping. Hospital (formerly Henderson General Edesiri Udoh is a professional health care Hospital), St. Joseph’s Healthcare worker based in Brampton. DENTAL CARE Canadians want dental care for everyone who needs it, whether they can pay for it or not. But it’s not an idea finding much support from den- tists, who make huge investments in equipment, office space, and their own education and time. Tell your MP, MPP, councillor, that dental care is a political matter. It’s the job of politicians to make it happen. Tough Times – September-October, 2019 5

In the April 2019 How Doug Ford’s Budget, Premier Ford’s Government policies affect announced it will cut spending in The People education, healthcare, legal aid, public BY ROD WOOLRIDGE will also mean we will have further cuts to our library staff. This will also libraries, municipal year ago when Premier Doug prevent our library clients: whether stu- Ford campaigned for office, he dents, seniors or anyone in-between, and social services. Astated he was requesting your from receiving the additional educa- support to help make Government tional information they may require to more responsible to and “For the improve their livelihoods. ROD WOOLRIDGE tvo.org and the Ontario Federation of People.” In the April 2019 Budget, Everyone in Ontario is entitled to Labour ofl.ca website and follow the Premier Ford’s Government announced receive the best defence when they are of those services. Ford Tracker: PC actions to date. it will cut spending in education, health- charged with a criminal offence. If you Ontarians pay high provincial taxes care, legal aid, public libraries, munici- are a citizen with a good job and an and we are entitled to receive health- Rod Woolridge is a retired: student, teacher pal and social services. exceptionally high income, you may be care, education, social services, library (BA, B.Ed,), vice principal, driving instruc- What do those cuts mean to you able to hire an excellent defence lawyer. funding, municipal services and legal tor, teacher of English as a second language and me? But what if you are working at mini- aid when necessary. in Nigeria, work centre operator, employment It means we will have more students mum wage, or you are homeless, or you That’s right! Ontario is Open for counsellor, security guard. In retirement, he in each classroom so that each student have a mental or physical disability pre- Business, and you and I will have to pay volunteers with several local organizations, will NOT receive the individual attention venting you from holding a well-paying extra for it! including the NDP, (years ago he was an he or she may need to improve his or her job? How will you pay a lawyer for your If you are interested in learning NDP candidate in Newfoundland provincial skills to graduate with higher grades. defence? more about the Ford Government’s elections), Steelworkers retirees, Friends and It also means the school buildings We have Legal Aid, where the gov- cuts in provincial funding to more of Advocates of Peel, Bramalea Community will not receive funding to replace win- ernment pays to help people who can- our Ontario Government services, visit Health Centre. And more. dows that lose heat during the winter; or not afford a lawyer. This program has Like to read? for the up-to-date equipment required never been adequately funded. Now, to improve laboratories and, by reduc- the Ford Government is cutting fund- Like a bargain? ing the number of specialized courses, ing to this program too. LikeLike toa fun read? time? prevents our students from receiving a In Ontario, we are fortunate to have Like a bargain? broader experience in their education. OHIP, the Ontario Hospital Insurance Like a fun time? It also means smaller schools will Program, that pays for many of the USED be closed, students bussed to other drugs and tests needed to ensure all schools, and many teachers will be laid our citizens are treated early for any off – 155 teachers in Peel Region alone. health issues. We have to thank Tommy USEDBOOK Ontario has always provided funding Douglas for introducing a health pro- for those in need. Women and children gram to Canada. who are homeless due to family break- But the Ford Government has de- BOOKSALE!!!! down or spousal abuse could always seek cided to reduce funding for health pro- assistance through women’s shelters. grams. The mental health budget was Cartoon by Thursday, Sept. 19 to Sunday, Sept 22. HoursStephen are Thursday Lay 5 p.m. For people with disabilities, for cut by $170 million dollars. The People’s SALE!!!!to 9 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. those looking for work, who were ill, Health Care Act may merge and privat- and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. injured on the job, or impoverished ize such agencies as the LHINs (Local Thursday, Sept. 19 to Sunday,Approximately Sept 22. Hours 50,000 are books, Thursday DVD, 5 p.m. CDs by the sudden death of a partner, help Health Integration Networks), Cancer to 9 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.and to 8 records p.m., Saturday are arranged 10 a.m. intoto 5 p.m. over 40 was available through Ontario Works, Care Ontario and the Trillium Gift and Sunday from 11 a.m.broad to 3 p.m.subject areas. Children’s and Youth Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, of Life Network. Privatization often Cash Only! Approximatelybooks have their 50,000 own tables. books, Collectable DVD, CDs or through the Ontario Disability means changing to a business for prof- andbooks, records records are (vinyl), arranged CDs and into DVDs over are 40 Support Program. it, and it means many of the healthcare broadlocated subject in the lowerareas. level.Children’s and Youth Cash Only! books have their own tables. Collectable The Ford Government has decided services we receive free now, will come Performance by the Mississauga Symphony showcases the reason for the sale books, records (vinyl), CDs and DVDs are to cut the amount of funding to each and adds an extra dimension to the whole experience. Saturday at 1 p.m. with added fees. located in the lower level. of these programs. The Ontario Government is also Cuts of up to 50% funding in our reducing the funds for municipalities PerformanceVisit bythe the UsedMississauga Book Symphony Sale showcasesin support the reason of thefor the sale and adds an extra dimension to the whole experience. Saturday at 1 p.m. libraries mean we will not be able to to pay for social programs. This ulti- Mississauga Symphony. purchase the books, or e-books, to keep mately means our municipal taxes will For moreVisit information the Used phone Book 647 866-7253 Sale or in e-mail support [email protected] of the our library information up-to-date. It have to increase to help pay for many Sheridan Centre, 2225 Erin Mills Parkway Mississauga Symphony. For more information phone 647 866-7253 or e-mail [email protected] Sheridan Centre, 2225 Erin Mills Parkway 6 Tough Times – September-October, 2019 Tough Times – September-October, 2019 7 BBQ-ing for bigger, When Brampton hosts a better meals cricket tournament the Knights Table, Brampton’s three-meals-a-day, every-day-of-the-year soup whole world watches! kitchen, had fun and games at its annual fund-raising BBQ. Activities ranged from a jumping castle to an egg-and-spoon race, to a Brampton Beast and Brampton hosted an international cricket tournament this year and brought wads of icecream and other goodies. Photos by Subash Sharma a host of visitors to the city. But that’s not all that Brampton does for cricket. Starting this Fall 2019, both Gore Meadows Community Centre and South Fletcher’s Sportsplex will be offering Cricket Skills and Drills for children ages eight to 13. This program teaches the fundamentals of cricket -- the rules, offensive and defensive positioning, batting, bowling and fielding. Technical skills are taught through instruction as well as game play. Required equipment: Run- ning shoes. The cost for Brampton residents for a 14-week program is $95.62. Mississauga Recreation offers cricket for beginners, ages six to nine, Satur- Volunteers who received special awards days, September 21 to December 14. Cost: $78. Any free cricket programs for kids? Tough Times would like to know. Photos by Jerry Jarosz Knight’s Table VOLUNTEERS The BBQ team put on a great show and a good meal. Thank you. egarded as the lifeline of Knights Table, Brampton’s three-meals-a-day every day of the year soup kitchen, about 160 volunteers and donors were R recently honoured with awards for their good work. Knights Table began in 1990, when Brampton resident Cecil Peters saw a man sifting through garbage in search of a meal. Peters talked with Knights of Columbus Council #9235, and within six months, Knights Table opened its doors. Almost 30 years old, Knights Table relies on the generosity in time and money, of its supporters within the Brampton community.

Hit for six – and the crowd goes wild! Sun Chemical representatives Guest speaker Jeff A.D. accept a Community Service Award Martin is also a writer and on behalf of the firm. motivator.

A jumping castle is more than a place The Brampton Beast came in to play. It’s a backdrop for children’s full dress. games.

Nancy Novielli received the Cecil Peters Young people (with help from adults) keep the entertainment moving. Award for More boundary hits, and more fun for fans. Volunteer of the Year. Young, energetic, and dancing

Carefully tended grass keeps batsmen running and bowlers looking for that While you eat, your car goes to the cleaners. More certificates to show. That’s John Spry in the middle, Knights Table board sweet spot. member. 8 Tough Times – September-October, 2019 Empowerment for all – including workers HOW THE LABOUR MOVEMENT HELPS EVERYBODY

BY MARIA PANGILINAN By their nature, labour mong organized labour groups campaigns mobilize -- unions, grassroots organiza- A tions, and coalitions, there are for the social and opportunities to experience supportive- economic rights of all, ness, empowerment, and solidarity for social justice issues affecting you. including the As the voice of labour in Peel within the larger labour community at marginalized. national (Canadian Labour Congress- -CLC) and provincial (Ontario Health Coalition are open to the public. Federation of Labour--OFL) levels, the Supportive of progressive political Peel Regional Labour Council (PRLC) candidates, labour encourages leader- supports its locally affiliated unions, ship and activist development. and labour movement campaigns. For example, at the suggestion of Organized labour operates as a a PPAG member, Canadian Labour very strong network of solidarity at all Congress in cooperation with Peel levels, with members referring to one Regional Labour Council, held a free another and like-minded supporters as “Igniting the Spark” workshop en- “brother” and “sister”. couraging women to be leaders, and to It’s Labour Day and a megaphone leads the line of union workers on the march for jobs, wages, good working conditions for everyone, union member or not. By their nature, labour campaigns consider entering politics. (Jerry Jarosz photo) mobilize for the social and economic Coalitions leverage the collective rights of all, including the marginalized. power of those concerned about tions of collective bargaining and rep- learn how to get a job, e.g.: St. Union-affiliated volunteer activists specific issues. Peel Health Coalition resentation. LCSP offers practical help Gabriel Learning Centre; COSTI; Peel work with community organizations to for instance, born of efforts between and referrals to access employment Newcomer Centre; Peel Multicultural safeguard healthcare, public education, Peel Poverty Action Group and rights, human rights, and government Centre; Family Services of Peel. The social programs, public services, and Ontario Health Coalition, is a champi- income benefit programs. workshop is also offered for staff train- the environment for example, as well on of #FairDealForBrampton, where Typical Employment Standards Act ing and community outreach education. as advocate for all workers’ rights. Brampton City Council seeking more (ESA) issues where LCSP assists, in- Knowledge is power, and a wealth Grassroots non-profit organiza- health facilities for Brampton. clude termination, severance, overtime, of education is available through tions such as Peel Poverty Action Non-profit organization Labour holiday pay, and employment insurance getting involved in your community. Group (PPAG) and newly formed Community Services of Peel (LCSP) is (EI). Just like the “hidden job market”, there Peel Health Coalition, affiliated with another bridge between labour and the Their focus is on early intervention, are invaluable and priceless “hidden Ontario Health Coalition, are just two general public. Funded by United Way, identifying and problem-solving; help- volunteer opportunities”. of the many community groups in and working with Peel Regional Labour ing fill out required forms; referrals So … seek information, attend a which labour activists are involved. Council, LCSP serves non-unionized to other organizations as needed; and meeting or event, get acquainted with The monthly meetings for PRLC’s workers—primarily, but not limited to informal mediation. those who can help you and whom general membership, PPAG, and Peel newcomers--those without the protec- For human rights issues such as you can help in turn. Because, to sexual harassment, a worker can be ac- borrow from the Ontario Federation companied by a LCSP representative, of Labour’s current campaign name -- up to the mediation level. the “power of many” begins with the NORTH PEEL & DUFFERIN Or if a worker is denied EI for power of one… Community Legal Services instance, LCSP can attend a tribunal, the last step in the appeals process. LCSP: 10 Gillingham Drive, S Another aspect of LCSP’s work uite 213, Brampton. g Free legal services for low income residents of Brampton, is presenting two-hour “Know Your Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Caledon and Dufferin County Rights” workshops, often for another Phone 905-696-7444 for an appointment g Problems with your landlord? organization’s educational program and leave a message. g Is your rent subsidy threatened? for clients needing to upgrade skills, www.lcspeel.ca

g Was your application for Ontario Disability Support Program benefits denied? “Your publication is superb. Probably the best g Problems with Ontario Works? 905-455-0160 Toll Free from Dufferin 1-866-455-0160 [email protected] such publication in Canada.” Prof. John Ryan, Senior Scholar at University of Winnipeg. Tough Times – September-October, 2019 9

Books where X marks the plot

Try these: How do I find out what I need to know?

ToughTomes Promise and Peril: Justin Trudeau We’ll have to listen, sift the information, in Power BY LAURA BILYEA, Librarian then read and sift again. By Aaron Wherry, 2019. Central Library, Mississauga Available at the library soon And Green Party Leader Elizabeth Being Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau came to power on the May, has also written her own (and her by J. D. M. Stewart, 2018 he 2019 Federal Election is fast promise of “hope and hard work” Party’s) story: Canada has had 23 prime ministers, all approaching. and a pledge to seek a common good Who we are: reflections on my life with views and policies that have dif- T Competing signs will soon for all Canadians. Promise and Peril ex- and Canada fered as widely as the times in which show on every stretch of grass, debates plores how the Trudeau government by Elizabeth May, 2014 they lived. But what were they like as on Twitter, and plenty of talk. How do has succeeded or failed in its biggest In this memoir/manifesto, May people? Being Prime Minister takes you I find out what I need to know? We’ll commitments: resource development, reflects on her extraordinary life behind the scenes to tell the story of have to listen, sift the information, then immigration, climate change, trade, and the people and experiences that Canada’s leaders and the job they do as read and sift again. reconciliation -- against a backdrop of have formed her and informed her it has never been told before. Where can I start? A good short read economic uncertainty, global political beliefs about democracy, climate is Eugene A. Forsey’s How Canadians tumult and the roar of populist revolt. change, and other crucial issues fac- Looking for an author Govern Themselves (320.971 FOR). It’s ing Canadians. As of press time, no books had been a brief look— only 52 pages—at Trudeau: the Education of a Prime published about Andrew Scheer, nor Canada’s parliamentary system and how Minister And what is a Prime Minister? Here had he written any. He has been Member it all fits together. Here’s a link to the By John Ivison, 2019 are 23 different answers to that ques- of Parliament for the riding of Regina- whole book: https://lop.parl.ca/about/ available at the library soon tion in one book: Qu’Appelle since 2004, became leader parliament/senatoreugeneforsey/home/in- From one of Canada’s most connected of the Conservative Party in 2017, and dex-e.html …or you can pick it up at your political journalists, a warts-and-all look is running for Prime Minister. (Wikipedia) local library. at Justin Trudeau and the Liberal gov- Who’s running? Well, it depends on ernment’s record in power. where you live. Your local library can tell you who is currently running in The leader of the New Democrat Proudly representing Peel’s your riding, or you can find it on the Party wrote his own personal book, web at elections.ca Love and Courage: My story of Public Elementary Teachers Who’s saying what? The best place family, resilience and overcoming the to get that information is from the po- unexpected litical parties themselves, at their web- by Jagmeet Singh, 2019 sites: In October 2017, Jagmeet Singh Defending quality public education – www.liberal.ca was elected as the first visible minority for our students & our communities conservative.ca to lead a major federal political party www.ndp.ca in Canada. This story is not a political www.greenparty.ca/en memoir. This is a story of family, love, etfopeel.com and courage, and how strengthening @ETFOPeel Want to read more? The library the connection between us all is the way @peeletfo has interesting reads if you want more to building a better world. depth, or more dirt! 10 Tough Times – September-October, 2019 Helpful info for homeless and hungry

his is an incomplete list of facilities, organiza- Monday 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Having a job interview, but no tions, opportunities, that help homeless peo- Wednesday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. clean clothes to wear? T ple in Peel. Expanded info will be published in Friday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Regeneration in Brampton (905) 796-5888 has future issues of Tough Times. Homeless folk and help- 310 Lakeshore Rd W., Mississauga, L5H 1G8 clothes for adults only, open Monday to Friday, 8 ers are invited to suggest more info, more topics. Or Phone: 905-274-9309 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. Items are free. Donations invited. if assistance didn’t turn out as expected, Tough Times Any other organizations in Peel that can provide readers need to know. Eden Food for Change – clean clothes for free, please contact Tough Times at 905 2 Multi Food Service Programs 826-5041 or email [email protected] to be list- Homeless and need a place to sleep tonight? Food Bank and Community Kitchen ed in Tough Times November-December 2019 edition. Phone 905-791-7800 or visit peelregion.ca/ Tuesdays 12 p.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-7 p.m. housing/shelters 3185 Unity Dr., Mississauga, L4W 4L9 Are you being evicted because you can’t pay Peel has emergency shelters for individuals, youth Phone: 905-785-3651 your rent? and families in Brampton and Mississauga. Shelters Phone: 905-791-7800. The Region of Peel can help have 24-hour staffing and supports to help you find St. Joseph Community Kitchen eligible individuals and families in emergencies when affordable housing. See separate item SHELTERS. Open: Tuesday 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. you can’t pay rent or bills. 1699 Dundas Street East, Mississauga, L4X 1L5 Regeneration has a housing worker who can Are you hungry and have no money to buy Phone: 905-238-9008 advise, but can’t pay your bill. food? Knights Table, #4 – 287 Glidden Road, Brampton, St. Mary Star of the Sea Are you going to lose your phone or hydro serves three meals a day every day of the year. Food Bank does not have fixed hours, but starting in services because you can’t pay your bill? Breakfast from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Lunch and November, opens Fridays, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Phone: 905-791-7800. The Region of Peel can help dinner from noon to 6 p.m. on weekdays, and 11 Peter Street South, Mississauga, L5H 2G1 eligible individuals and families in emergencies when from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. It also has a food Phone: 905-278-2058 you can’t pay your bills. bank. Regeneration Outreach Community at Grace Where can you get fresh water to drink, Services over and above United Church, 156 Main Street North, Brampton, for free? Regeneration at Grace United Church in Brampton serves breakfast daily from 7 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. At soup kitchens. Probably at recreation centres. has a volunteer chiropractor at work on Fridays (on Sundays breakfast ends at 9.15 a.m.) A What if you just ask? from 8 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. It’s free. First come, first lunch program opens in September, Monday to served. (905) 796-5888. Thursday 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Need to take a shower, but don't know where You can do your laundry at Regeneration. Costs: The Mississauga Food Bank can suggest to go? Phone 905-791-7800, or visit peelre- $1 for soap, plus $1 for the machine. 40-plus food banks covering all of Peel. Phone 905 gion.ca/housing/shelters 270-5589 to find a food bank near you. In Mississauga, go to any recreation centre and reg- Punjabi community ister for a pass – no charge for showers, and you can Punjabi Community Health Services offer help with Gilgal Community Meal Program use the rec centre address on your application. mental and physical health. 905 677-0889 Sundays 7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. In Brampton, Regeneration at Grace United 3066 Given Rd., Mississauga, L5A 2N3 Church (905 796-5888) provides towels and soap for Organizations offering help to people who Phone: 647-574-8708 free, from 7 a.m. to 9.15 a.m. every day. are homeless or in other difficulty, are invited The City of Brampton has showers at some to email facts to Tough Times, to be included The Compass Multi Food Service Programs community centres, but indicates that none are free in future issues. Phone 905 826-5041, email The Compass food bank may serve a meal, followed of charge. Caledon showering facilities will be listed [email protected] by take-home supplies. in Tough Times’ next issue.

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 pie rcings. Reusing and sharing tattoo ink and ink pots • - • Receive blood and body organs tha t have not been screened for hepatitis C. Even in Canada, if you received blood and organ donations • beSharingfore 19 drug90 y equipmentou may be atsuch ris kas. needles, �ilters, tourniquets, water, syringes, cookers, alcohol swabs, acidi�iers • Involved in medical procedures including immunization in hepatitis C endemic countries

Contact: Bloom Clinic 40 Finchgate Blvd. Suite 224, Brampton, ON L6T 3J1 Phone: 905-451-6959 |[email protected] to book a free test. Tough Times – September-October, 2019 11 SHELTERS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE HOMELESS

he Region of Peel tries to help people who are For shelter support, phone Transitional housing homeless or at-risk of homelessness. Services Interim Place North – 905-676-8515 from homelessness to a place of your own T include emergency and transitional shelters, Interim Place South – 905-403-9691 street outreach (where help comes to you), support Family Life Resource Centre – 905-451-4115 Peel Youth Village at 99 Acorn Place, Mississauga, services and assistance in finding permanent housing. Peel Family Shelter has 48 private single bedrooms, available for up All people are welcome at shelters in Peel Region, 1767 Dundas Street East, Mississauga to a year to a homeless person aged 16 to 30 who regardless of gender, race or disability. 905-272-7061 is eligible for Ontario Works or with other cash If you need emergency shelter immediately, Cawthra Shelter supports. Kitchens and bathrooms are shared. contact 2500 Cawthra Road, Mississauga There’s a gym, laundry machines, meeting rooms. Peelregion.ca/housing/shelters/ or phone one of 905-281-1272 905-791-5576 the numbers below: Wilkinson Shelter 15 Wilkinson Road, Brampton Angela’s Place in Mississauga, provides hous- 905-452-1335 ing for up to a year for 20 families currently If you are fleeing Our Place Peel in emergency shelters or without appropriate violence or abuse 3579 Dixie Road, Mississauga housing. Services include job training, counsel- 905-238-1383 ing, activities for children and youth. and are in immediate Brampton Queen Street Shelter Phone 905-791-3887 ext. 7058 3458 Queen Street East danger, phone 911 now. Brampton, 905 791-2334

More than 1,000 people are homeless in Peel. The majority are of voting age. Many are Canadian citizens. If you are one of them, please exercise your right to vote in Canada’s federal election Monday, October 21. Elections Canada

Homeless citizens CAN vote: HERE’S HOW

This is what Elections Canada says kitchen or other place that provides social services. elector and the person vouching for them will have about voting: Get a Letter of Confirmation of Residence from to make a solemn declaration. Canadian citizens 18 years of age or older on polling the shelter where you are staying or a soup kitchen For more information, visit elections.ca or phone day are qualified—and encouraged—to vote, whatev- where your identity is known, by asking the adminis- 1-800-463 6868, toll free Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. er their living arrangements are. trator to provide and sign it. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). An elector who is homeless or without a fixed Elections Canada provides a template on its address can vote by registering to be on the list of website or the facility administrator can contact the Edited from the Public Enquiries Unit electors. returning officer to obtain copies. Note that no law Elections Canada To register, all electors must prove their identity requires the administrator to provide a letter. and address. This is usually done by showing identifi- Like any elector, a homeless elector can have cation documents such as a birth certificate, pass- someone who knows them and who is on the list port, a library card. (The full list on Elections Canada of electors for the same polling station vouch for website includes a government cheque stub, liquor them (if voting by special ballot at a local Elections card, old age security card, parolee card, student Canada office, the person vouching for the elector identity card, blood donor card, and more) must be on the list of electors for the electoral Other ways homeless electors documents can district where the office is located). The person prove their address at the polls: vouching for the elector must be able to provide ac- The Canada Elections Act allows a homeless cepted documentary pieces of identity and address. elector to use the address of a shelter or soup An elector can vouch for only one person. Both the 12 Tough Times – September-October, 2019

Visit peelregion.ca @regionofpeel

Find the RightJob Are you an Ontario Works participant? Did you know you can find quality job openings in the Peel area?

For more information visit: peelregion.ca/help/jobs

HUM-0456 19/07