World Habitat Day - Toronto, October 5, 2009
Mayor David Miller proclaimed World Habitat Day in Toronto at a special event at Toronto City Hall on the morning of October 5, 2009.
The mayor and Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, Chair, Affordable Housing Committee, marked the Day by signing a large-format version of the City of Toronto’s new Housing Charter.
Individual copies of the proclamation and the Charter were handed out to those present.
In addition, the event honoured Toronto’s Home Ownership Alternatives for being one of nine world-wide finalists for the UN’s 2008-2009 World Habitat Awards.
The City’s affordable housing partners from the private and non-profit sectors and other governments, as well as other stakeholders and City staff were at hand for the event.
The Toronto Housing Charter – Opportunity for All, the first in Canada, is a key part of Housing Opportunities Toronto—An Affordable Housing Action Plan 2010-2020, passed by City Council August 5, 2009.
The Charter is designed to guide City Council and staff in their efforts to assist those who often face challenges finding affordable housing, from newcomers and single parents to seniors and those with disabilities.
It states that all residents have the right to equal treatment in housing without discrimination as provided by the Ontario Human Rights Code.