Toronto Announces Funding for Expanded Summer Youth Programs to Prevent Violence
Toronto launches $5 million summer safety plan aiming to engage 3,000 youth and 500 families through expanded recreation and violence prevention programs.
The City of Toronto has unveiled an ambitious summer safety plan with the goal of tackling youth violence using proactive, community-oriented approaches. At a press conference, Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized that the initiative will support 3,000 young people and over 500 families, providing access to summer recreation opportunities and specialized youth violence prevention programs.
“Our goal is simple: to connect Toronto’s young people and their families to opportunities, to make sure summer is a safe, vibrant, positive experience for everyone, no matter where they are from,” said Chow. She stressed the collaborative nature of the approach, bringing together experienced city councillors, police, and local agencies who understand both the challenges and the unique strengths of Toronto’s diverse communities.
The city has invested an additional $5 million in its 2024 budget specifically for anti-violence youth programs, supplementing the existing $43 million already earmarked for broader anti-violence efforts. According to Mayor Chow, residents can expect to see “a lot more happening in the community: recreation programs, things for young people to do.” The comprehensive plan involves expanding access to safe neighbourhood spaces, coordinating activities between police and community organizations, and increasing direct engagement with youth across the city.
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw outlined how the strategy was designed to be accessible for both youth and families, making it easier for them to find important violence prevention resources. “It’s a plan tailored to the different needs of our neighbourhoods to build strong relationships and empower families, provide structured activities to help kids connect and stay engaged,” he commented. The approach will also encourage relationship-building between law enforcement and young people, helping both groups learn from one another throughout the season.
Community officers will spearhead a variety of activities—ranging from education and sports to broader community-building events—to keep youth active and involved. As part of the initiative, the city plans to increase parks and recreation youth drop-in programming by 50 percent this summer, delivering more than 140 youth and family programs, grants, and drop-ins throughout Toronto.
City leaders reiterated their commitment to creating a safer environment while providing meaningful experiences and skill-building opportunities for Toronto’s next generation. By investing in positive alternatives and fostering stronger community ties, the hope is to ensure that every young person in Toronto has a safe and rewarding summer ahead.
