There are many services available in Riverdale, but we heard about gaps. Many women feel that adequate and affordable child care is not available. There is a need for youth and seniors programs. Some felt that agencies didn't work hard enough to let people know what was available. New Canadians face many challenges in gaining education and employment experience.
People are worried about funding cuts.
Some services have been capped, and others reduced. We heard about the effects of welfare cuts on families and children and how it has increased hunger and the need for emergency food services. For many people the presence of low-cost services are important means by which they cope and manage. Riverdale needs to consider the effects on people, and the community itself, of further reductions in services. The Community Quality of Life Project has allowed us to learn about and from the community.