Local Initiative Funding for Tenants (LIFT)
LIFT is a new tenant funding program from Toronto Community Housing (TCHC).
Through LIFT, tenants can join with their neighbours to plan and lead projects that bring their communities together. LIFT gives your building or townhouse community funding to support local activities and programs—chosen by tenants, for tenants.
How does it work?
Every TCHC building receives a LIFT funding amount based on the number of bedrooms in the building. No building will receive less than $1,000.
Tenants come together in Tenant Circles to decide on community priorities and how to spend the funds.
What can LIFT be used for?
Tenant-led projects funded through LIFT can include:
- Smaller equipment that supports social, recreational programming and enhancing community (e.g., gaming supplies, craft supplies)
- Food or refreshments for community events and re-occurring community gatherings (e.g., BBQs, monthly social tea)
- Equipment for events, recreational activities, and common spaces (e.g. cutlery, trolleys or serving platters)
- Portable items that can be kept in storage on site (i.e., locked in cupboards,
cabinets, or closets) - Tools, gardening supplies and gardening products (e.g., soil, seeds and plants)
- Decorative items and seasonal décor
- Recreational supplies and equipment (e.g., foosball tables and ping-pong tables)
- Programming and/or services provided by a third-party provider whose primary activity meets the identified need (i.e. DJ, tutoring, dance or exercise classes etc.)
- Training and police checks
Is there anything LIFT cannot fund?
LIFT cannot be used for:
- Alcohol or gifts
- Supplies or equipment which are for private use or private events
- Items that are not accessible to the wider community (e.g., video game consoles)
- Duplicating items which can be provided by partner agencies or TCHC staff (e.g., mop, bucket, vacuum cleaner)
- Transit or travel costs
- Costs to maintain activities beyond funding term
- Items for events outside the building premise
What is a Tenant Circle?
Not sure when your next Tenant Circle meeting is happening? Speak to your Community Services Coordinator (CSC) or look for posters in your building.
By joining your Tenant Circle, you can:
- Decide on or suggest projects
- Help prioritize spending
- Make sure the funds reflect what your community needs
It’s your voice, your building, your funding. Speak to your Community Services Coordinator (CSC), Engagement, to find out when your next Tenant Circle meeting is happening or look for posters in your building.
How to access LIFT funding?
- You must attend your building’s Tenant Circle meeting to have a say in how your community uses your LIFT amount.
- Work with your Tenant Circle to propose a project in line with community priorities.
- Staff will support planning and purchases through TCHC’s financial process.
All funds must be spent within the calendar year.
Did you miss the LIFT info session?
At the LIFT info session, tenants learned:
- How to access LIFT funds
- What types of projects can be funded
- How to access the funds
- How to get involved in your building’s Tenant Circle
Read through the presentation deck of LIFT info session to learn more.
