A downtown space vacant for decades is being turned into a sports centre for inner-city youth.

The Sport for Development Centre, a 42,000 sq.-ft. space at Jarvis and Dundas Sts., was announced Saturday morning and will include a multipurpose gymnasium, classrooms, a cafeteria and kitchen.

The project is being developed by Toronto Community Housing at one of their properties with the City of Toronto and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.

“This partnership reflects a major effort by Toronto Community Housing to make best use of all our buildings for the benefit of residents and the surrounding community,” said Greg Spearn, interim president and CEO of Toronto Community Housing. “Our housing is home to many brilliant young minds and budding athletes and by providing more opportunities for youth, we are building a better city for all.”

The centre will have programming seven days a week, including MLSE programs, sports-based after school programs, breakfast programs and educational training such as cooking lessons.

“Sports and physical fitness are an incredibly important part of our lives and helping Toronto’s youth enjoy the benefits of playing sports is a major priority for MLSE and MLSE Foundation,” said MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum.

This program is an example how the city can partner with the private sector to create facilities making Toronto a more livable city, Mayor John Tory said.

 

torontosun.com

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