News & Events
Welcome to our News & Events page. Don Valley Community Legal Services actively participates in a variety of community activities, public legal education workshops, and community networking tables. One key component that allows members to be self-empowered is knowledge of what is happening around them. This page will allow us to share what is happening in the communities we serve.
Here we will share legal information articles, local law reform campaigns, news stories, community events and details for our Annual General Meeting.
For community events, workshops, public legal education (PLE) information or membership, please contact our Community Development Worker at 416-441-1764 ext. 22.
Legal Info Articles & News
World Refugee Day 2026
Upcoming events and actions for World Refugee Day We’re Better Together World Refugee Day is June 20. Let’s take the whole week to show, together, that across Canada we stand with refugees and newcomers, no matter where we come from or what language we speak. Click here to learn about the We’re Better Together Campaign and Week of Action June 14-20,
Read moreISAC and DVCLS’ Joint Recommendations on proposed changes to HRTO Rules of Procedure
The Income Security Advocacy Centre (ISAC) and Don Valley Community Legal Services (DVCLS) wrote in response to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario’s (HRTO) request for stakeholder feedback on proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure and Practice Directions. ISAC and DVCLS together represent low-income individuals from equity-seeking communities across Ontario in discrimination applications before the HRTO.
Read moreSoccer in the City: Community Care
The following information is from the Toronto Underhoused and Homeless Union (TUHU) and the Toronto Drop-In Network (TDIN) – June 2026
Click here for a PDF of the flyer.
What is the World Cup and when is it happening?
It is an International soccer tournament hosted in Toronto from June 11th- July 19th at the BMO Field located at 170 Princes’
RentSafeTO Colour Coded Signs Coming June 15, 2026
New: RentSafeTO Colour Coded Sign Requirements Coming into Effect June 15, 2026 Toronto City Council has updated the Apartment Building Standards Bylaw to introduce colour-coded signs for RentSafeTO apartment buildings. Beginning June 15, 2026, all registered buildings must display City-issued green, yellow, or red signs that reflect their most recent building score.
Read moreCanadian Citizenship Rules
The following is legal information and not legal advice. If you need further information or need legal advice, please call our Intake Line at 416-441-1764 ext. 1. This information is up to date as of May 13, 2026. Applying for Canadian citizenship is an important way to protect your rights.
Read moreOntario is increasing ODSP rates by 1.9% effective July 2026
This will be the fifth increase to ODSP rates since September 2022 and rates will have increased by more than 22% since then. ODSP rates are tied to inflation and adjusted annually in July. The 2026 inflation-based increase to ODSP will take effect on July 1, 2026. People receiving ODSP will see an inflation-based increase of 1.9% to: basic needs and shelter maximum amounts for individuals and families board and lodge amounts for individuals and families the amount provided for a couple if both people have disabilities amounts for services provided by a long-term care home or a specialized care residence ODSP website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program
Read moreStanding Up for Tenants at 500 Dawes – City begins $120,000 in repairs
Don Valley Community Legal Services has been assisting the tenants of 500 Dawes Road in East York for several years. We were thrilled to the City of Toronto finally take remedial action at the building. Last summer, we joined the tenants and ACORN when Mayor Olivia Chow visited the building. The tenants showed her the various maintenance and repairs issues in common areas and within units.
Read moreWhy Proper Pay Matters
Article written by: Mahnoor Fatima, Student-at-Law The following is legal information and not legal advice. If you need further information or need legal advice, please call our Intake Line at 416-441-1764 ext. 1. In Ontario, employers have legal obligations regarding how employees are paid. Under the Employment Standards Act,
Read moreLiving on OW/ODSP and turning 65?
This tip sheet was prepared by the Income Security Advocacy Centre (ISAC). Information and links are accurate and up-to-date as of March 2026. For more helpful tip sheets, updates, and information from ISAC, visit www.incomesecurity.org. Click here to download the PDF Version. Living on OW/ODSP and turning 65?
Read moreAir Conditioner Assistance Program 2026
Applications and support for the 2026 Air Conditioner Assistance Program will be open April 7 to 21. Low-income seniors, pregnant individuals and families with infants are eligible to apply for a free portable AC unit. Supply is limited. Check eligibility and apply at toronto.ca/ACprogram. Toronto continues to experience the effects of climate change,
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