Monthly Newsletter

If you require immediate assistance, please email us at jfraser.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org or call us at 613-736-9573.

You’re Invited to our Strawberry Social!

Join us June 24th 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Billings Estate, 2100 Cabot St. RSVP via email through the link below, or give us a call at 613-736-9573.

Ground Breaking of UOttawa AMRC – May 9th

It was a pleasure to attend the University of Ottawa’s groundbreaking ceremony for their new Advanced Medical Research Centre, a new 300,000+ square-foot facility and an important step to attracting and retaining top researchers in our city.

CHEO 50th Birthday Celebration – May 17th

CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) is an integral part of our community here in Ottawa South; it’s a world-class institution. It was great to catch up and reminisce with the original staff, CHEO alumni, and old and new friends.

On May 13th, I rose in the Legislature to ask the Premier why his office budget tripled, costing taxpayers more while paying 48 staff more than the average Ontario family income.

On May 28th, I rose in the Legislature to make a Members’ Statement on the Premier’s Billion-Dollar Booze Boondoggle.

Support Access to Spine Care Petition:

Our office has taken on a constituent’s request to collect signatures to support the calls to the government to increase support for people suffering from conditions like scoliosis.

To help and sign the petition, please download the PDF file, print it out, and collect physical signatures so that MPP Fraser can present this petition to the Legislature.

Provincial Updates. Government of Ontario.

Ontario Introducing Online Booking to Exchange Driver’s Licences

Ontario Expanding Support for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Ontario Building More Supportive Housing in Ottawa

Ontario Honouring Outstanding Volunteers

Protect Yourself from Tick Bites This Summer

Attention Drivers! Remember to renew your licence plate before your birthday!

Your vehicle must have a valid licence plate and be insured to drive legally in Ontario. The licence plate renewal period varies depending on type of vehicle and if you choose to renew for 1 or 2 years. Renew online at: Vehicle registration | ontario.ca or visit a Service Ontario location.

When you renew:

you will no longer receive a sticker
you do not have to pay licence plate renewal fees
law enforcement will be instantly aware your licence plate was renewed

Get ServiceOntario digital reminders!

Get free reminders by email, text message, or phone call 60 and 30 days before it’s time to renew your licence plate, driver’s licence, health card, or Ontario Photo Card.
Mailed renewal notices for driver’s licence holders and vehicle owners will continue for:

individuals aged 70 years and older
individuals with a driver’s licence class A, B, C, D, E, or F

Apply online: Get Service

2024 Census Test

As part of its standard process, Statistics Canada conducts a comprehensive test of the revised census questionnaire and collection procedures two years before every census. The census test is designed to improve the clarity of the census questions and effectiveness of the collection procedures, helping to ensure accurate and efficient data collection for the 2026 Census of Population and the 2026 Census of Agriculture.

In turn, the data collected in the census are used in setting electoral boundaries and calculating federal, provincial, and territorial transfer payments, for example. They also inform the development of government policies, programs, and processes that directly impact your constituents.

About the 2024 Census Test

The census test will take place between May 6 and June 28, 2024, spanning across all 10 provinces. Approximately 198,000 households and 10,000 agricultural operations have been randomly selected to participate in this test.
Out of the total sample, 89,000 households were randomly selected from Nova Scotia, Québec, and Saskatchewan. Statistics Canada enumerators will assist respondents in these communities in completing their census test questionnaire

The remaining 108,700 households were randomly selected from all 10 provinces. These households will be required to complete census test questionnaires but will not receive in-person follow-up visits from census enumerators.

Participation and confidentiality

Households selected to participate in the 2024 Census of Population Test will receive a letter containing instructions on how to fill out a questionnaire. The easiest way to complete the census test questionnaire is online. However, paper questionnaires will be available on demand. If a household is selected for the census test, it is legally required to participate.

All information is collected under the authority of the Statistics Act and will be kept strictly confidential. Census test data are collected for test purposes only and will not be released to the public.

The 2024 Census of Agriculture Test, by contrast, is voluntary. Nevertheless, Statistics Canada relies on the responses from farmers across Canada to assess their understanding of the questionnaire content.
This year, Statistics Canada is introducing a new participation method for a selected number of households (around 8,700). These households will be given two options. They can:

fill out a questionnaire, or
allow Statistics Canada to count the members of their household using pre-existing information already provided to the government.

If households choose this latter option, no further action is required from them, and their legal obligation to participate in the census test is fulfilled.
For more information

For more information, visit the 2024 Census Test page. To learn more about other milestones related to the 2026 Census, visit The road to the 2026 Census.

If you have any questions, please contact InfoStats at infostats@statcan.gc.ca.

Upcoming grant application deadlines

Seed stream: June 26, 2024 at 5 PM ET
Grow stream: November 6, 2024 at 5 PM ET

Youth Opportunities Fund

Youth Innovations and Family Innovations Grant:
• Application deadline: July 10, 2024 at 5 PM ET

Visit otf.ca for more information about our grants, resources and supports.

211 is completely free, confidential and calls are answered 24/7 in 150+ languages. If you prefer, you can also text the number 2-1-1 or use the online chat at 211ontario.ca Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Value Matters – Awareness Campaign

MPAC recently launched Home Values Matter, a new awareness campaign that aims to help homeowners and prospective homeowners better understand the role MPAC plays in property assessment.

We’ve launched a new Home Values Matter page to host helpful resources for Ontarians and have started promoting these tools with our new Home Values Matter YouTube video.

You can view our recent social media posts on this campaign at the below links. X (Twitter), Linked-In, Facebook.

How your property is assessed

We determine the assessed value of each property based on several variables, and we use different approaches to value properties depending on the property type. Click on the links below to learn more:

Property assessment and taxation toolkit

To better help property owners understand the relationship between property assessment and taxes, as well as the key roles different levels of government play, MPAC has developed a toolkit.

View the toolkit here.

Value Matters – Awareness Campaign

You can view our recent social media posts on this campaign at the below links. X (Twitter), Linked-In, Facebook.

How your property is assessed

Property assessment and taxation toolkit

More than 90% of Ontarians are in favour of organ donation.

However, only one in three Ontarians have registered their consent to donate. It only takes two minutes to register…

BeADonor.ca is the simple, electronic and quick way for you to register your consent for organ and tissue donation. It only takes a moment to register with results that will be long-lasting and positive. Register today.

Alta Vista Market – June 1st:

Come and see us at our booth at the Alta Vista Market on opening day, Saturday, June 1st, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at St. Thomas Church, 2345 Alta Vista Drive.

CHEO Telethon – May 27th to June 8th:

The CHEO Telethon is one of our region’s most beloved traditions. This year, the CHEO Telethon takes place from May 27 through June 8 and you can start making a difference right away! With the generosity and support of our community, we will raise funds to provide life-saving care, further world-class research and purchase much needed equipment. The CHEO Telethon is a time to honour our bravest heroes and the dedicated teams working together to overcome challenges like childhood cancer, rare disease and mental illness.

HOW CAN I HELP?

You can start by sharing the CHEO Telethon website (www.cheotelethon.com) with your family and friends and encouraging them to watch this year’s six CHEO stories. Remind them that the CHEO Telethon is a wonderful time to show their support for children and youth. Every donation is matched by generous sponsors that will double their gift and the impact of their donation.

June is Let’s Bike Month!

June is EnviroCentre’s Let’s Bike Month! The City of Ottawa is partnering with EnviroCentre and other great community organizations and businesses to work towards the goal of encouraging more people to ride their bikes! Whether it’s for commuting, running errands, or just for fun, you can track your rides and see the impact a bike ride can have on our planet. Check out how you can get involved by visiting Let’s Bike Ottawa’s website.

There will be a celebration of all kilometers pedaled and emissions averted at EnviroCentre’s new community celebration event – Bikes and Bites. This event will take place on June 26th from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at Lansdowne’s Horticulture Building (1525 Princess Patricia Way).

South Keys Greenboro Community Garage Sale – June 1st, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM:

The link below indicates the locations of garage sales around South Keys-Greenboro.https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/2/viewer?ll=45.37169538107219%2C-75.62969872707161&z=14&mid=16Zg7thzuI6spFuyySCOJbwbovIgJbkA

Awesome Alta Vista Garage Sale – June 8th, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

If you are having a sale, please send your address including postal code to altavistacommunityassociation@gmail.com to have your location added to the map.

You’re invited to our End-of-Year Concerts!

Click link for more information: Upcoming Events – OrKidstra

You’re invited to join us at OrKidstra’s “Vanier Hub End-of-Year Concert” on Wednesday, June 5 and our big “Centre Hub End-of-Year Concert” on Tuesday, June 11 at 6:30 PM to experience the magic and music of OrKidstra LIVE this spring!

These free, family-friendly concerts will feature a wonderful array of music including classical, jazz, choral, popular favourites, music from around the world, a world premiere and much more.

FREE – donations supporting OrKidstra’s mission to empower kids and build community through music are welcome (tickets not required).

Can’t attend in person? We will be livestreaming our June 11 concert on YouTube! Subscribe now by clicking here.

Bring a friend and see you there!

Youth Ottawa – RBC 21 under 21 Youth Awards

Youth Ottawa & RBC are now accepting applications for the 21 under 21 Youth Awards. If you are, or know a youth between the ages of 14-21 who has given back to the community, inspired change in others, or exhibited inspirational qualities, please submit an application. Recipients will receive a $1,000 bursary & an invitation to the awards gala in October.

Let’s celebrate the unique journeys and achievements of our young leaders together! Your nomination could make a world of difference.

For more information about the application or nominations period visit us at youthottawa.ca/nominate.

Nominations now open for the 2024 VOscars Volunteer Awards

Is there an individual or organization in your community who deserves a big pat on the back for making Ottawa a happier, healthier, more caring city? Recognize their volunteer contributions by nominating them for one of Volunteer Ottawa’s seven VOscars Volunteer Awards. Online submission forms are now available on the Volunteer Ottawa website and will be open until June 14.

Awards for Individuals

Awards for Organizations

SAVE THE DATE!
The VOscars Awards Gala is the highlight of the year for Ottawa’s volunteers, non-profits and community supporters. This year’s event takes place on Thursday, October 24 at the Preston Event Centre. Three finalists in each category will be announced in August and receive a complimentary ticket to the event including entertainment, a full meal with dessert, and the awards ceremony.

Watch Volunteer Ottawa’s video, “Ottawa’s Volunteer Connection”, to learn more about how volunteering can make a difference to you and the community!

Canterbury Community Association Family Fun Day – June 22nd:

The Canterbury Community Association will be holding its annual family fun day. Join them at the Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink at 2185 Arch Street from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. They will offer a free barbeque and game, live music, a bouncy house, and more.

Friends & Family of Jane Berlin

With support from the Alta Visa Community Association & Greenspace Stewardship Committee, Councillor Marty Carr, MPP John Fraser and MP David McGuinty.

As a tribute to Jane we are having a community fundraiser to purchase a memorial bench for this true community leader. Jane Berlin was a champion who saved much of our greenspace from being developed…she embraced our community and made a difference. Her too short life and big heart was extraordinary in so many ways.

The bench will be located on Grasshopper Hill near a new Plaque and Red Maple tree that honours all those who served Canada in WWII. This ‘Living Memorial’ renovation project, which Jane fought for, was completed before she passed, and there isn’t a more appropriate place to honour her memory.

Contributions can be made by cash or cheque made out to ‘AVCA Jane’s Bench’ and mailed or hand delivered to 1849 Camborne Crescent, Ottawa K1H 7B6. If you prefer to remain anonymous, please indicate in the memo line on the front of the cheque. If you prefer to send a direct cash transfer call the # below for details.

AVCA will hold the monies in trust until the bench has been installed. If donations exceed the $6,000.00 thousand dollars required, the monies would be used to create Jane’s wildflower garden in WRENS Way.
For further information please contact Gillian 613 737 0508.

Advancing the wellbeing of Ottawa’s older adults.

As a bilingual and inclusive Council, their vision is respected, informed and engaged older adults living in an age-friendly city.

Visit them at 217 – 815 St. Laurent Blvd. Ottawa, Ontario K1K 3A7 and for more information give them a call (613) 789-3577, send them an email coa@coaottawa.ca or visit their website at The Council on Aging of Ottawa – The Council on Aging of Ottawa (coaottawa.ca).

Catching up on routine immunizations

If your child has missed a vital immunization required for school this fall, we can help! The Kids Come First Health Team, has launched their Vaccination and Up-to-Date campaign to tackle just that, and they are taking appointments now!

Find out the requirements and book your child’s vaccination today!

Protect yourself from scams

(Ottawa) – Each year, Canadians lose millions of dollars to fraud. Educating yourself on common scams is the easiest way to prevent becoming a victim of one.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t fall for high pressure sales tactics that don’t allow you to think over a decision or that require you to provide personal, banking or credit card information before you have even accepted an offer. Any reputable company will put the offer in writing and give you time to think it over.
Do your due diligence. Check companies with the Better Business Bureau, ask for references and visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to find out about the latest scams and where they are active. Taking a little time is worth the effort if it avoids you becoming a victim.
If you didn’t request a service, don’t accept unsolicited offers by phone, computer or at your doorstep. Always do your homework first to ensure you are dealing with a reputable company and get a contract with the scope of work being done, a timeline and the fees.
No government agency or legitimate business will ask you to purchase gift cards or bitcoin in order to settle an account.
Be careful where you share your personal information, particularly on social media. Over-sharing personal details can make it easier for fraudsters to make false credit applications in your name.
Scams work because fraudsters don’t give you time to think about what is being asked. Call a trusted family member to discuss it or call your local police service.
Talk about common types of fraud with friends and family, especially older and vulnerable people.

If you have been a victim of fraud, please make a report online with the Ottawa Police Service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by phone at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free).
You can read more about scams and tips to protect yourself. You can also visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for information on popular scams and the Toronto Police Service for tips on how to protect yourself from scams.

Spring COVID-19 vaccines now available in the community to individuals at increased risk
The Province of Ontario has launched a campaign to encourage COVID-19 vaccination for people at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. In alignment with the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommendations, the Ministry of Health is recommending that the following individuals who are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 receive a dose of an XBB COVID-19 vaccine in Spring 2024:
Adults aged 65 and above.Adult residents of long-term care homes and similar living settings for seniors.Individuals aged 6 months and older who have moderate to severe immunocompromised conditions.Individuals aged 55 and above who identify as First Nations, Inuit, or Metis, along with their non-Indigenous household members who are also 55 and above.For these groups, it’s especially important to get the XBB COVID-19 vaccine this spring if they haven’t already received one in Fall 2023. This vaccine targets the XBB strain of the Omicron variant, offering added protection against severe COVID-19 and possibly against current variants.
Individuals may be eligible to receive an XBB COVID-19 vaccine if it has been 6 months from their previous COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 infection (whichever is later). All other individuals are not currently recommended to get an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose this spring and should wait until further guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health, unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider.
Getting your COVID-19 Vaccine:Many pharmacies will continue to provide the COVID-19 vaccine for the Spring campaign. Be sure to check first before you go.Visit the Provincial Vaccine Booking Centre to book an appointment at an Ottawa Public Health vaccine clinic.OPH offers free drop-in services to all residents of Ottawa at our accessible Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs.
For parents and caregivers
OPH is strongly encouraging all parents and caregivers to ensure their children and youth are up to date on routine vaccinations, especially their measles vaccination.
Families of children and youth facing barriers to immunization can book an appointment through Kids Come First.
OPH is also offering routine childhood immunizations through its Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs on a drop-in basis for people who may be facing additional barriers to immunization and reporting.
More info is available at: ParentingInOttawa.ca/Immunization.
Ontario Health 811
A free, secure and confidential service you can call or access online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get health advice from a registered nurse or to find health services or information. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-0007. You can visit Health 811 for more information.

Helpful Links – Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health
Stop Overdose Ottawa Webpage: StopOverdoseOttawa.ca
Public Online Learning Platform: OLearn (Ottawa.ca)
Ottawa’s Overdose Response Strategy: What is Ottawa’s Plan?Harm Reduction Services: Ottawa Public Health – Harm Reduction Services

Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Resources:English – Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Resources List French – Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Resources ListEnglish – African, Caribbean, Black (ACB) Mental Health and Substance Use Resources List French – African, Caribbean, Black (ACB) Mental Health and Substsance Use Resources List OttawaPublicHealth.ca/WellnessResourcesAndServices: Additional resources for children, youth and young adults, parents, newcomers, older adults, postpartum families, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, 2SLGTBQ+ communities, people experiencing violence, people experiencing loss, people looking for suicide prevention supports, health care workers, and people who are deaf and hard of hearing.Discarded Needles in Our Communities: Discarded Needles – StopOverdoseOttawa.caSafe Handling and Disposal of Sharps (Training Video)Needle Drop-BoxesReturning Medical Sharps to PharmaciesIntegrated Strategies to Collect Discarded NeedlesWorking with Individuals Who Use NeedlesWebsite for Parents: Youth and Opioids – What parents need to know – Parenting in Ottawa
Multilingual Print Resources: Ottawa Public Health – Opioid Signage
Multilingual Opioid Overdose Recognition Cards:English – Signs of an Opioid Overdose Card French – Signs of an Opioid Overdose Card Arabic – Signs of an Opioid Overdose Card Somali – Signs of an Opioid Overdose CardOverdose Detection Technologies Cards:English – National Overdose Response Service (NORS) & The Brave App Card French – National Overdose Response Service (NORS) & The Brave App Card

Recognition

Have a special day coming up? Commemorative Scrolls are available from the province of Ontario to recognize events and special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or other notable events like the anniversary of a church, a major act of heroism, recognizing outstanding community service, or winning provincial championships.

For 60th wedding anniversaries and 100th birthdays, greetings from His Majesty the King can also be obtained, but a minimum of eight weeks advance notice is required as well as proof of birth or marriage.