The Jane/Finch Centre is joining calls for immediate implementation of critical life-saving measures to protect essential workers from the devastating impact of COVID-19.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 22, 2020 - TORONTO - The Jane Finch Centre, the largest multi-service organization serving Toronto’s Black Creek neighbourhood, is joining calls for immediate implementation of critical life-saving measures including paid sick leave, to protect essential workers from the devastating impact of COVID-19. 

“Jane Finch and many of Northwest Toronto neighbourhoods are largely working class communities who have been disproportionately impacted by the spread of COVID-19,” said Michelle Dagnino, Executive Director of the Jane/ Finch Centre. 

“We know that in large part, outbreaks in workplaces and factories are not only spreading to other workers, but also to neighbors in crowded buses and family members. The lack of paid sick days forces those who can’t work from home into the impossible position of not being able to put food on the table or pay their bills if they are not able to work due to the health concerns,” Dagnino added. 

Jane Finch and other neighbourhoods in Northwest Toronto continue to face high infection rates in addition to barriers in accessing adequate protection against the virus, including access to vaccines. As the health system reels from soaring infection rates, hospitalizations and ICU intakes, a growing list of organizations, health experts and community leaders are calling for protective measures within workplaces, including paid sick days for workers, in order to curb the spread of COVID-19. 

“We are working with our community partners to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible, but working people and our communities are still facing a dire situation,” Dagnino said. “There is no time to waste - decision makers must act urgently and implement paid sick days immediately”

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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Kirsten Desabrais
Communications Coordinator
(416) 633-2733, EXT: 327

Pablo Vivanco
Director of Programs and Community Development
(416 ) 633-2733, EXT: 243