Solidarity Systems Are Working In Toronto’s Little Jamaica
Crowdfunding proved vital for residents and business owners during the covid pandemic in Toronto’s Little Jamaica. While a Jan 30th, 2021 article asked “Are rent relief crowdfunds here to stay?” the organization behind the ongoing GoFundMe started back in 2021 is still up. Reclaim: Building West is currently speaking out about how the Eglinton Crosstown is leading to gentrification and erasure in this historically Black Jamaica neighbourhood. While its construction has reduced access to businesses along Eglinton Ave West, the prospect of increased property values attached to immediate subway access threatens increased property taxes beyond the means of current residents.
While the pandemic is officially over the American for-profit crowdfunding platform GoFundMe has created a new category for basic necessities like rent, food, and monthly bills, proving that mutual aid and solidarity systems are integral to those unaware of and/or filling in the gaps left by municipal grants, loans, Ontario Works, government aid, specialized provincial government assistance programs, and NGOs.
“These are the kinds of mutual aid and solidarity systems that many Black and racialized women do across our major cities in Canada,” Hossein said. “With or without a pandemic, people are going to participate in these systems.” - The Toronto Star, Jan 30th, 2021
If you or someone you know are struggling
Ontario Works
ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program)
Ontario Emergency Assistance
Toronto Rent Bank
Toronto Rent Reduction Program
Toronto Emergency Energy Fund (EEF)
Low-income Energy Assistance Program
Energy Affordability Program
Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)
