Today, Mayor Olivia Chow and Deputy Mayor Amber Morley (Etobicoke-Lakeshore), the Mayor’s Youth Champion, were joined by Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw and community partners to announce the City of Toronto’s Summer Safety Plan for 2026.
Introduced in 2025, the annual Summer Safety Plan builds on the City’s long-term commitment to prevention, youth well-being and safer communities. The plan brings together programs, services and events designed to help young people feel safe, supported and connected through sports and arts activities, job opportunities, mental health supports, violence prevention initiatives and extended access to community spaces.
The City’s 2026 budget includes $5 million for youth violence prevention programs as part of SafeTO’s $49 million annual investment in community safety and well-being.
This year, the City is launching a new enhanced online search tool to make it easier for youth and families to find nearby programs, services and supports based on neighbourhood and interest.
Highlights of the 2026 Summer Safety Plan include:
More information is available on the City’s Summer Safety Plan webpage.
Building on proven results
Evaluation of the 2025 Summer Safety Plan showed strong community impact, with more than 15,000 youth participating in programs, 1,800 youth accessing safe recreation spaces, 5,000 residents attending community events and more than 550 parents and caregivers engaging in supports and programming. These efforts contributed to a 40 per cent reduction in gun violence and demonstrated the value of co-ordinated, prevention-focused investments and partnerships.
SafeTO: Toronto’s 10-Year Community Safety & Well-Being Plan
The Summer Safety Plan supports SafeTO’s preventative approach to community safety and well-being by connecting youth and families to programs, supports and safe spaces throughout the summer. Since launching, more than 90 per cent of SafeTO’s 26 priority actions are completed or underway.
More information about SafeTO is available on the City’s webpage.
Quotes:
“This plan was built with and for Toronto’s young people and the communities that support them. It reflects what we heard across the city, the need for more opportunity, stronger connections and safe spaces where young people can grow and succeed. By investing in prevention, programs and partnerships, we are continuing to strengthen neighbourhood safety and support young people to reach their full potential.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“This Summer Safety Plan supports young people across Toronto in feeling safe, supported and connected to their communities. By investing in recreation, mentorship, mental health supports and opportunities for youth employment, we are helping to build safer neighbourhoods where everyone can thrive.”
– Deputy Mayor Amber Morley (Etobicoke-Lakeshore), Mayor’s Youth Champion
“In addition to its law enforcement role, the Toronto Police Service prioritizes intervention, prevention and programs that foster trust and strengthen communities. As part of the Summer Safety Plan, our Neighbourhood Community Officers will lead a series of programs and activities ranging from education and sports to community-building. This City-led initiative demonstrates the impact of working together to support youth, prevent violence before it happens, and deliver meaningful results for our communities.”
– Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As an Official Host City for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City's website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.