Captain Plan→it

downtownkids:

Dear Councillor Holyday,

I am a downtown resident and the mother of a happy one-year-old boy. My friend and neighbour came up with the wonderful idea to write to you with “a little snapshot of family life downtown,” to enlighten you on why and how families love living in downtown Toronto. I’ve decided to send you some actual snapshots! Please find attached photos of our family enjoying Riverdale Farm, Harbourfront and a bike ride through Trinity-Bellwoods park in our neighbourhood on Queen St. W.

As a resident of Trinity-Spadina, we have access to a perfect little playground 5 minutes away at Dovercourt and Argyle Streets, as well as the expansive, vibrant Trinity-Bellwoods park, about 10 minutes away by foot. I ride my son around on my bicycle (we take the residential streets!) and get around by TTC and Autoshare. We do not own a car - by choice. We consider that a perk of downtown life.

There are many ways to raise a happy, healthy family in Toronto. Please don’t denigrate the choices of Toronto citizens by making sweeping, uninformed statements about our downtown, family-friendly neighbourhoods. We love our city and we love our children.

Yours truly,

Hannah Sung

(sent Friday, July 13 to Councillor Doug Holyday and cc’ed to Councillor Adam Vaughan)