Toronto is investing $2.1 million to boost security measures at festivals in response to a recent deadly vehicle attack at a community event in Vancouver. Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong community spirit and not succumbing to fear. The funds will support the Special Events Stabilization Initiative, which assists festival organizers with rising safety costs, including private security and vehicle attack mitigation. Additionally, a $100,000 grant will be offered in 2025 to help establish a non-profit association for festival organizers, promoting their collective interests and safety.
"It was heartbreaking," Chow told reporters. "But collectively, we said, we will never let fear dominate and dictate. Our spirit is stronger, the spirit that comes from working together..."
The money, which the city will pull together by reallocating resources, will be distributed through its Special Events Stabilization Initiative... to help cover health, safety and security costs at struggling festivals.
Chow said the money is designed to ensure that festivals in Toronto "remain joyous, celebratory and really celebrate the essence of Toronto."
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