Funding the SDP

Building a Safer, Stronger, and More Connected Community

The Community Building Working Group is one the four working groups of the Regent Park Social Development Plan (RPSDP), a community-wide initiative aimed at fostering unity and togetherness among all the different residents and stakeholder groups in the community.

From 2019 to 2024, the RPSDP transformed how community safety, economic development, and social inclusion are approached in one of Toronto’s most diverse neighbourhoods. With a $2.5 million investment, the SDP delivered real impact—supporting local entrepreneurship, expanding community safety networks, and enhancing resident engagement.

Now, we need your help to secure the future.

 


What We've Achieved (2019–2024)

Over the last five years, the SDP  has made key accomplishments in community building and safety, employment and economic development as well as public communications:

  • Hosted "Community Buddy Walks" and safety audits.

  • Registered 80 residents for workforce support.
  • Empowered 45+ local entrepreneurs through initiatives like the Night Market and Café Pop-Up, generating over $11,500 in sales.

  • Organized annual community events including Sunday in the Park and Black History Month celebrations.

  • Delivered hundreds of food boxes to address food insecurity.

  • Produced nearly 500 videos on Regent Park TV (RPTV) and hosted 69 news shows.

  • Launched the "Hello Neighbour" App, with over 500 downloads.

  • Created a Tech Library providing 670+ loans to community members.


Why We Need Increased Funding

The successes of the past five years show what’s possible when our community is resourced. But community needs have grown—in 2024 alone, over $4 million in project applications were submitted, yet only $500,000 was available.

We're calling on supporters, funders, and governments to invest in the next phase of this work.


Our Goal: $5 Million (2026–2030)

We’re advocating for $1 million annually over the next five years to:

  • Expand youth and safety programs.

  • Deepen employment and entrepreneurship initiatives.

  • Sustain community-building events and food security work.

  • Enhance access to technology and digital storytelling platforms.


Together, We Can Do More

The Regent Park SDP is more than a plan—it’s a promise to invest in the people who make this community thrive. Join us in making sure this vital work continues to grow.

This project has been funded in part by the Department of Justice Canada.

RESOURCES

Download the Full Impact Summary Report Here

Download the Regent Park Space Needs Assessment Here

 

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