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Candidates’ Debate: Beaches-East York Federal By-Election 2026

August 19 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Wednesday, August 19, 2026
7 PM – 8:30 PM
72 Main Street, Toronto

Register for this free event to hear directly from candidates running in the Beaches-East York Federal By-Election.

Toronto continues to face an affordability crisis. For too many people, the rising cost of housing, food, and other essentials has made it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. In 2025, Toronto food banks recorded more than 4.1 million visits — a record high that shows food insecurity is no longer a short-term challenge but a deeply entrenched reality for far too many people across our city.

As voters in Beaches East-York prepare to cast their ballots in the upcoming Aug. 31 federal by-election, Daily Bread Food Bank in partnership with Calvary Baptist Church, home to the Calvary Grace Food Bank, is bringing together local candidates for a community debate focused on the issues that matter most to residents.

This debate — moderated by Community Centre 55 Executive Director Reza Khoshdel — is an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their plans to address poverty, food insecurity, housing affordability, and the rising cost of living.

Confirmed candidates

Following candidates were invited to speak at the debate:

  • Bruce Livesey, Green Party of Canada (confirmed)
  • Jim Syrbos, Conservative Party of Canada (TBC)
  • Shannon Devine, New Democratic Party (confirmed)
  • Tanveer Shahnawaz, Liberal Party of Canada (confirmed)

Candidates from only those political parties that have at least one member in the legislature were invited to speak at the debate.

Other candidates are welcome to attend the event and distribute materials to participants.

This event is free, but space is limited. Register now to save your spot and learn more about each candidate’s vision for building a Toronto where everyone can thrive.