Toronto city council approved a call to review the city’s Heat Relief Strategy late last night, asking staff to consider reopening 24/7 cooling centres, which were phased out in 2019. Yet, some argue a review is not necessary and believe action is needed immediately after the city sweltered under an intense three-day heatwave that saw temperatures as high as 46 C with the humidex.
City Councillor Alejandro Bravo made sure to add to the motion that city staff find opportunities to activate these indoor spaces as soon as possible for vulnerable people, including those who are unhoused. Bravo asked staff consider community agency spaces and available City-owned facilities that could be ready faster for emergency uses this summer.
Lorraine Lam, an organizer for the Shelter and Housing Justice Network, joins Met Radio for the second time this week. She tells why more more immediate action is due.