Posts, videos and speeches

ere in our east end of downtown. From karaoke in Market Square to vibrant dancing (which Abigail especially loved 💃), it was a celebration of culture and community. Can’t wait for the next one! #kitchenercentre #FarEastAsianMarket #DowntownKitchener #Community

their work and vision. Their Better Together Capital Campaign is raising funds to build a much-needed new structure to better serve animals and the community. Contrary to popular belief, the Humane Society does not euthanize most animals — they work tirelessly to find loving forever homes through a network of volunteer adopters. The Kitchener location now welcomes walk-ins, and registered adopters can meet and interact with animals ready for adoption. We also saw their incredible educational programming in action, including sessions for youth that foster compassion and responsibility. Learn more and support the campaign: kwsphumane.ca/better-together #BetterTogetherKWSP #AnimalWelfare #CommunityCare #HumaneSociety #KitchenerCentre #StratfordPerth

n the Kitchener area, providing 24-hour care and a dedicated team to help those living with severe and persistent mental health challenges find stability and quality of life. Thresholds supports over 350 people in Kitchener with housing, crisis respite, and individualized programs that promote affordable housing, person-centered supports, and greater independence for those facing mental health challenges. Thank you to Eric Philip (CEO), Rosalind Horne (Manager, Fundraising & Communications), and Jasmine and Kyra (Housing Support Coordinators) for sharing the important work you’re doing to strengthen our community. 💙 Learn more about their work at: thresholdsupports.ca #MentalHealthMatters #SupportiveHousing #CommunityCare #CompassionInAction #StrongerTogether #KitchenerCentre

teps, take accountability, and most importantly — listen to youth voices on one of the most urgent challenges of our time: the youth mental health crisis. I hope you’ll join us to witness governance in action and help set a new precedent for youth engagement in Canada. Event Details: 📅 Date: August 29th, 2025 ⏰ Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 📍 Location: Waterloo Regional Council Chambers, 150 Frederick St, Kitchener 🔴 Livestream: Link will be available on the day. 🎟️ RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-the-role-of-good-governance-tickets-1573765417729?aff=oddtdtcreator More information can be found at: https://civicclarityfoundation.org/ @civicclarityfoundation #kitchenercentre #YouthMentalHealth #GoodGovernance #YouthVoicesMatter #MentalHealthMatters #YouthEngagement #Accountability

ide the work we do every day. I’m also excited to share that we’ll be launching a new town hall series right here at the office — giving even more opportunities to connect face-to-face, ask questions, and talk about the issues that matter most to our community. Stay tuned for details! #kitchenercentre #bettertogether

e discussions around artificial intelligence, dual-use technologies, and how the federal government can better support the local tech ecosystem and the founders driving innovation here. Special thank you to The Honourable Cheryl Gallant for making the trip down to Kitchener Centre to support this initiative. As well, thank you Barbara Shackleton for your support and insight. Grateful for the chance to listen, learn, and collaborate. Looking forward to building on this momentum 🇨🇦 @cherylgallantmp @shackleton.barbara @communitech

at the back of the building. I hope to see you there!

dents & Immigration, and Student Affordability. I enjoyed learning more about the important work CSI is doing and look forward to finding ways we can align on shared priorities to support students here in Kitchener Centre. You can learn more about it here: www.conestogastudents.com/representation/advocacy #KitchenerCentre #ConestogaCollege #StudentSuccess #Community

nging people together in such a meaningful way — it’s always inspiring to see our community rally behind such an important cause. #Kitchener #Community #SOCA #KidsAbility #Inclusion #SportsForACause

emporary Theatre. IMPACT 25 is a celebration of bold ideas, global voices, and contemporary performance — all happening right here in downtown Kitchener from September 23–28. If you’re passionate about the arts, culture, and community, this is a festival you won’t want to miss. 🎟️ Tickets are available now on Ticketscene. Let’s keep supporting the creative energy that makes Waterloo Region such a vibrant place to live! #IMPACT25 #KitchenerCentre #WaterlooRegion #ContemporaryTheatre #MulticulturalArts #CommunityCulture #ArtsMatter #KitchenerEvents

g our community for over 50 years, offering a wide range of supports — from inclusive housing and employment services to youth programs and early learning — all grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to live a good life and be part of a welcoming, supportive community. 👟 YEP (Youth Exploring Possibilities) Summer Program This 9-week summer initiative engages youth aged 13–25 in recreation, fitness, work readiness, and community exploration. Thanks to Canada Summer Jobs, youth staff lead themed weeks packed with activities — and with the help of Grand River Transit, participants explore all corners of Waterloo Region, building independence and connection. 💼 KW Career Compass KW Habilitation also supports youth employment through KW Career Compass. With Canada Summer Jobs funding, a dedicated job coach helps young people prepare for, secure, and maintain meaningful summer jobs — building confidence and career skills. 🏘️ Intentional Community Consortium (ICC) KW Habilitation is part of the ICC, a national effort to address the affordable housing crisis for people with diverse abilities. I look forward to welcoming the ICC to Parliament Hill in October of 2025 for an important conversation about inclusive housing solutions. 🌍 Global Leadership Exchange – Coming to Ottawa in 2026! Canada will host the Global Leadership Exchange World Conference in Ottawa, June 1–5, 2026, with the theme Ideas to Action: Inspiring Leaders to mobilize collective solutions KW Habilitation continues to show us what’s possible when we invest in people, inclusion, and community. I’m proud to support their work in Kitchener Centre and beyond. 💙 Please visit www.kwhab.ca for more information #KWAwesome #KitchenerCentre #YouthEmpowerment #InclusiveCommunities #CanadaSummerJobs #GrandRiverTransit #KWCareerCompass #ICC #GLE2026 #DisabilityInclusion #CommunityLeadership

family, and neighbours! Looking forward to seeing you there!

e atmosphere, Bluesfest strengthens the sense of belonging that makes Kitchener such a special place to call home. Thank you to the organizers, performers, vendors, and volunteers who make it all possible year after year. Can’t wait for the next one! #kitchenercentre #KitchenerBluesFest #BluesFest2025 #LiveMusic #DowntownKitchener #SupportLocal #KitchenerEvents #MusicLovers #CommunityVibes #LocalMusic #KWAwesome #FestivalSeason #OntarioEvents #SupportTheArts

e atmosphere, Bluesfest strengthens the sense of belonging that makes Kitchener such a special place to call home. Thank you to the organizers, performers, vendors, and volunteers who make it all possible year after year. Can’t wait for the next one! #kitchenercentre #KitchenerBluesFest #BluesFest2025 #LiveMusic #DowntownKitchener #SupportLocal #KitchenerEvents #MusicLovers #CommunityVibes #LocalMusic #KWAwesome #FestivalSeason #OntarioEvents #SupportTheArts

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition.

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

rn by conflict. 🇨🇦 Their legacy is a reflection of Canada’s enduring commitment to peace, diplomacy, and human rights. Today, we remember the fallen, thank the serving, and recommit to building a more peaceful world. PeacekeepersDay #CanadaForPeace #UNPeacekeeping #TrueNorthStrong #GlobalSolidarity

sion is clear: to make summer camp affordable, inclusive, and rooted in community. They partner with local churches to create programs that are accessible and welcoming for all families — and it shows. One of my favourite moments? Meeting Aria. 💙 Aria’s story is what this program is all about. She started with Epic after Grade 10 as a camp counsellor. Since then, she’s grown into leadership roles — Assistant Director, Director, and now Regional Supervisor. That’s 7 years of summer growth, mentorship, and real-world experience. Epic doesn’t just build fun camps — they build leaders. And Aria is proof. I got to see the campers in action too — laughing, running, and playing a game of colour tag using chalk paint on their hands. It looked like so much fun, and it was clear these kids were having a summer to remember. Please check them out: https://epicandonside.ca/ Thank you to the entire Epic & Onside team for the work you do across Canada — and especially here at home. 💫 #CanadaSummerJobs #EpicCamps #OnsideCamps #KitchenerCentre #LeadershipInAction #YouthEmpowerment #AffordableCamps #CommunityMatters #AriaTheLeader #SummerJobsSuccess #BuildingTheNextGeneration

ooking to get even more involved locally. With two locations in Kitchener — one for goods and clothing, and another for furniture — they turn donations into affordable finds for families, while supporting global outreach through their work with Bible League Canada. We’re proud to support their mission and give our furniture a second life that helps others. A fresh start for us, and a meaningful contribution to the community — a true win-win! 💙 Check them out: missionthriftstorekitchener.com #MissionThriftKitchener #CommunityDriven #KitchenerCentre #ThriftForGood #SupportLocal #FurnitureDonation

eeks.