Seniors lose programming after agency loses city funding

More than 100 Toronto seniors protested at city hall Friday after a community agency providing programming at their west-end apartment complex lost city funding and was ordered to cease activities by the end of next week.

LA Centre for Active Seniors, a non-profit organization, has been running a food bank program and social programming—including exercise, bingo, and movies—for seniors at 55 Rankin Crescent, near Symington Avenue and Bloor Street W. As of June 26, the agency will no longer have permission to operate there.

"We're feeling ripped off and not consulted," said Rita Garber, a senior who used the programs. "We feel like we're not important. How come we don't have a say?"

In May, the city ended funding for the agency, and Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation (TSHC), a municipal corporation serving 15,000 low and moderate-income seniors in 83 buildings, ended its agreement with the agency. TSHC alleged the corporation received reports from tenants describing verbal abuse, intimidation, and a decline in volunteer engagement "reportedly linked to alleged abusive, retaliatory, and unpredictable management practices."

Andy Park, executive director of the LA Centre, denied the allegations, saying the city and TSHC have not provided specifics despite requests. "We're really worried the city is getting their information from a tiny select group of very disgruntled tenants. And even if they are relying on that small group, give us examples so we can refute it," he said.

Mayor Olivia Chow's office said the mayor believes seniors should have access to recreation opportunities, but noted "the organization repeatedly failed to meet requirements in their funding agreement." Coun. Alejandra Bravo, who represents Davenport, will hold a meeting with residents on July 7. Staff from TSHC will ensure the food bank program continues without disruption.