An opportunity for Regent Park to grow

It’s been an exciting summer for Regent Park residents. On Friday, July 11, TCHC and Tridel partnered with Dixon Hall and the Regent Park Youth Table to hold a Youth Vote Day. The event raised awareness on how $26.8 million in Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) funding will be used and its impact on the youth of Regent Park. 

Youth Vote Day was held on a sunny afternoon outside Dixon Hall in Regent Park. It included a barbeque, snacks, a live DJ, and a raffle. Many youth showed up to learn about the process and to cast their vote. 

City Councillor Chris Moise joined Federal Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Evan Solomon to speak about the importance of each resident having their say in the voting process. They also talked about the positive change this money can bring to Regent Park. 

“I think money going towards things like scholarships will benefit the community,” said resident Amni, a member of the Youth Table and Ambassador for Youth Vote Day, encouraging youth to vote. “A lot of people here can’t afford post-secondary education, and this will benefit them in the future.”

Shakeem, also a Youth Ambassador, said it was great to watch the community come together. He looks forward to how the funds can provide opportunities for youth. “It’s very hard for the youth to get jobs out here, so this will help them get back on track.” 

The voting closed on Friday, August 1, though one last voting opportunity was added at the weekly Taste of Regent Park neighbourhood event on Wednesday, August 6. All Regent Park residents over the age of 14 could participate by ranking three Community Benefits packages in the order they preferred. Their input will help determine how the money will be spent over the next 10 to 15 years. Each package focused on core priorities like community spaces, scholarships and job skills training and small business support, while also investing in jobs and employment support and community grants.