Subscribing to a cannabis newsletter that offers deals is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest promotions and discounts from your favorite dispensaries.
Surviving in a big city like Toronto, Canada, can be a daunting task, especially for newcomers. The city is known for its fast pace of life, crowded streets, and high cost of living. However, with the right information and tools, you can navigate the city and make the most out of your experience. In this article, we will discuss tips on how to survive in Toronto, covering topics such as housing, transportation, employment, healthcare, and entertainment.
Housing
Finding affordable housing in Toronto can be challenging, but there are options available. The first step is to decide what type of housing you need. Do you want to live alone, with roommates, or with a family? Do you want to rent or buy? Once you have identified your needs, you can start your search.
One option for finding affordable housing is to check out the city’s social housing programs. These programs provide subsidized housing to low-income residents. To apply for social housing, you can contact the Housing Connections office or visit their website. Another option is to look for roommates. Websites like Craigslist, Kijiji, and Roomster can help you find potential roommates and apartments.
Transportation
Toronto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, streetcars, and subways. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates the public transportation system. To use public transportation, you need to purchase a Presto card, which is a rechargeable smart card that you can use to pay your fares.
Another transportation option is cycling. Toronto has a growing network of bike lanes, and the city’s bike-share program, Bike Share Toronto, makes it easy to rent a bike for a short trip.
Employment
Toronto has a thriving job market, with opportunities in various sectors, including technology, finance, healthcare, and education. One way to find a job in Toronto is to check online job boards such as Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor. Another option is to attend job fairs or network with professionals in your field.
If you are new to the country, you may need to obtain a work permit or permanent residency status. You can find information on how to apply for these on the Government of Canada’s website.
Healthcare
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, which means that all residents have access to basic medical care. In Toronto, you can visit a doctor or clinic for free by presenting your health card, which you will receive after registering with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
If you need emergency medical care, you can visit one of Toronto’s hospitals, including St. Michael’s Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Toronto General Hospital.
Entertainment
Toronto is a vibrant city with a wide range of entertainment options. From museums and galleries to restaurants and nightclubs, there is always something to do in the city.
Some popular attractions in Toronto include the CN Tower, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Royal Ontario Museum. If you are looking for outdoor activities, you can visit High Park, the Toronto Islands, or the Scarborough Bluffs.
Tips on Saving
Living in an expensive city like Toronto can be a daunting task, especially with the high cost of rent and living expenses. However, there are ways to survive and even thrive in this city. Here are some tips to help you:
Budgeting: It’s essential to have a budget in place to manage your finances effectively. Create a budget that includes all your monthly expenses, including rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and entertainment. Stick to your budget to ensure that you don’t overspend and end up with financial problems [3].
Find affordable housing: Rent is one of the most significant expenses in Toronto, so finding affordable housing is crucial. Consider renting a shared accommodation or a smaller apartment to save on rent. You can also look for apartments in the suburbs, where the cost of living is generally lower than in downtown Toronto [6].
Use public transportation: Owning a car can be expensive, given the high cost of parking and insurance in Toronto. Public transportation is a cheaper and more convenient option. Consider getting a monthly pass to save money on daily transit fares [3].
Shop smart: Toronto has many grocery stores, and some offer lower prices than others. Compare prices at different stores to find the best deals. You can also buy in bulk and cook your meals at home to save money on food costs [3].
Carbon tax: A carbon tax is a fee that is imposed on fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. It’s designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. However, its impact on the cost of living in Toronto is a contentious issue. Some argue that it increases the cost of energy and raises the prices of goods and services, while others believe that it encourages people to adopt sustainable practices, which ultimately reduce costs [8].
Getting Help from your Government
There are several government programs available to the poor to combat homelessness in Toronto. Reaching Home [1][3] is a community-based program that provides funding and support to urban, Indigenous, territorial, rural, and remote communities across Canada to address local homelessness needs. The program is aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across the country.
Additionally, the Ontario government has launched an innovative strategy under the Social Services Relief Fund [2] to combat homelessness in the province. The province has provided $765 million to service managers and Indigenous program partners to support shelters, create longer-term housing solutions, and help vulnerable Ontarians affected by COVID-19, including those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Other government benefits that fall under the umbrella term of “social assistance” are available to those who are living below the poverty line and are at risk of homelessness [6][9]. These include welfare, disability support payments, old age security, and employment insurance, which form an integral part of Canada’s social safety net.
Furthermore, the Supporting Homeless Seniors Program [10] has expanded the capacity of reputable organizations and municipalities already on the front-lines of service delivery to homeless seniors. The program focuses on providing short- or long-term affordable housing for vulnerable populations in Alberta or BC.
It is important to note that the National Advisory Council on Poverty [4] provides advice to the Government of Canada on poverty reduction. Many charities [8] also work in communities to provide short- or long-term affordable housing for vulnerable populations.
Overall, there are several government programs available to the poor in Toronto to combat homelessness, including Reaching Home, the Social Services Relief Fund, and various social assistance programs. Additionally, the Supporting Homeless Seniors Program, the National Advisory Council on Poverty, and charities play important roles in addressing homelessness in communities.
Conclusion
Surviving in a big city like Toronto can be challenging, but it is possible with the right information and tools. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can find affordable housing, navigate the transportation system, find a job, access healthcare, and enjoy the city’s entertainment options. Remember to stay safe and be aware of your surroundings at all times. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can thrive in Toronto and make the most out of your experience.