Toronto Launches 2026 Summer Safety Plan with $5 Million Investment in Youth Programs
City expands recreation, employment, mental health and violence prevention initiatives for young people
TORONTO — The City of Toronto is investing more than $5 million in youth-focused safety and well-being initiatives this summer as part of its 2026 Summer Safety Plan.
Mayor Olivia Chow, Deputy Mayor Amber Morley and Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw joined community partners on June 3 to announce the annual plan, which is designed to connect young people with recreation, employment, mentorship, mental health supports and violence prevention programs throughout the summer months.
The initiative builds on the City’s broader SafeTO strategy and follows the inaugural Summer Safety Plan launched in 2025.
More than 200 programs planned
City officials say the 2026 Summer Safety Plan will engage thousands of young people and families across Toronto through more than 200 programs and activities.
Key targets for this year’s plan include:
- Reaching thousands of youth and families through summer programming
- Providing mental health supports and training to more than 5,000 youth
- Supporting more than 500 families, parents and caregivers through violence prevention workshops
- Expanding access to safe community spaces, recreation opportunities and mentorship programs
The City is also introducing a new online search tool designed to help residents find programs, supports and services based on neighbourhood and personal interests.
Officials say the tool will make it easier for youth and families to access resources available across Toronto.
Youth employment remains a major focus
Employment opportunities continue to play a central role in the Summer Safety Plan.
According to the City, more than 16,000 young people are hired annually through municipal divisions, agencies and community partnerships.
City officials say youth employment programs provide valuable work experience while helping young people build skills, confidence and community connections.
Building on 2025 results
The City reported positive outcomes from the first Summer Safety Plan in 2025.
According to the evaluation:
- More than 15,000 youth participated in programs
- 1,800 youth accessed safe recreation spaces
- More than 5,000 residents attended community events
- More than 550 parents and caregivers participated in support programs
The City also noted that these community-based efforts coincided with a 40 per cent reduction in gun violence, highlighting the importance of prevention-focused investments and partnerships.
Part of Toronto’s SafeTO strategy
The Summer Safety Plan forms part of SafeTO, Toronto’s 10-Year Community Safety and Well-Being Plan.
SafeTO focuses on addressing the root causes of violence and improving community well-being through prevention, partnerships and support services.
According to the City, more than 90 per cent of SafeTO’s 26 priority actions have either been completed or are currently underway.
Mayor Olivia Chow said the plan reflects feedback from youth and communities across Toronto.
“This plan was built with and for Toronto’s young people and the communities that support them,” Chow said. “By investing in prevention, programs and partnerships, we are continuing to strengthen neighbourhood safety and support young people to reach their full potential.”
Deputy Mayor Amber Morley said the plan helps ensure young people feel connected and supported throughout the summer.
Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw added that police community officers will participate in a variety of educational, sports and community-building activities as part of the initiative.
The City says the 2026 Summer Safety Plan will continue throughout the summer with programming delivered in neighbourhoods across Toronto.
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