Backgrounder: TCHC adds 51 Special Constables to its Community Safety Unit

TORONTO, November 29, 2019—Toronto Community Housing officially welcomed 51 new Special Constables to its Community Safety Unit today as part of an expanded focus on community policing.

Violence Reduction Program

TCHC's expanded community policing model is a key part of its violence reduction program. The program assigns dedicated peace officers in specific communities where TCHC tenants have experienced violence.

The program engages tenants in preventive community safety audit walks, where tenant input is sought into camera placements, lighting and other areas affecting community safety. TCHC's safety model is similar to the Toronto Police Service (TPS) community policing model.

After a successful pilot in 2018, Toronto Community Housing has rolled out the program this fall, and will continue to add more communities in 2020.

TCHC Special Constables

TCHC's Community Safety Unit has 196 personnel who engage tenants on safety matters, protect TCHC property and, in partnership with Toronto Police Service, deliver crime prevention and law enforcement services.

The unit responds to more than 90,000 calls per year and assists Toronto Police with crime investigations. CSU Special Constables have the authority of a police officer on TCHC property.

Youth engagement and community economic development

TCHC supports safe, healthy communities through programs that help youth gain meaningful employment, further their education and stay engaged in their community. TCHC-run programs include the YouthWorx summer employment program, the Be.Build.Brand. entrepreneurship program and postsecondary scholarships such as Investing in our Diversity.

TCHC provided scholarships and direct employment opportunities to more than 400 youth in 2019, and connected a further 500 youth to employment supports and job counselling in their community. This past summer, more than 1,100 youth took part in TCHC's summer day camps.

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About Toronto Community Housing:

Toronto Community Housing (www.torontohousing.ca) is Canada's largest social housing provider. Toronto Community Housing provides homes for nearly 60,000 low- and moderate-income households in neighbourhoods across the city. Toronto Community Housing is wholly owned by the City of Toronto and its 2,100 buildings represent a $10-billion public asset.

TCHC media line (416) 737-1352 or media@torontohousing.ca