Summary

Scarborough—Guildwood is a federal electoral district in Canada located in the eastern Greater Toronto Area. The district is home to a diverse population and boasts a number of significant population centres, including Scarborough Village, Guildwood Village, West Hill, Scarborough Centre, and Wexford-Maryvale. Recently, several issues have taken centre stage in the district, including community safety and access to affordable housing. The district's economy is driven by a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, and retail. There are a number of important landmarks in the area, including the Scarborough Bluffs, the Guild Inn Gardens, and the Toronto Zoo. Additionally, the district is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, which includes institutions such as the Scarborough Arts Council and the Guildwood Theatre.

Population Centres

The district of Scarborough—Guildwood is comprised of several major population centres, each with its own unique features and attributes. Scarborough Village is a largely residential neighbourhood located in the southern part of the district, while Guildwood Village is a historic community situated on the shores of Lake Ontario. West Hill, located in the northeastern part of the district, is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, including the Morningside Park and Highland Creek trails. Scarborough Centre is a bustling hub of commercial activity, home to the Scarborough Town Centre shopping mall and several major office buildings. Wexford-Maryvale, located in the northwest corner of the district, is a diverse community comprised of many different ethnic and cultural groups.

Issues and Events

Several issues have taken centre stage in Scarborough—Guildwood in recent years. Access to affordable housing has been a major concern, as rising real estate prices have made it difficult for many residents to find suitable and affordable accommodation. Additionally, community safety has been a pressing issue, with several high-profile incidents of gun violence in the area over the past few years. In response, local community groups and activists have been working to promote a sense of community cohesion and advocate for increased investment in community-based programs.

Economy

The economy of Scarborough—Guildwood is driven by a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, and retail. Major employers in the district include the Scarborough Health Network, the Toronto District School Board, and the Scarborough Town Centre. Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the local economy, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat in the face of reduced demand and supply chain disruptions.

Important Landmarks

Scarborough—Guildwood is home to a number of important landmarks, including the Scarborough Bluffs, a stunning geological formation that stretches along the shoreline of Lake Ontario. Other notable attractions include the Guild Inn Gardens, a picturesque park and heritage site that features a collection of over 80 statues and sculptures, and the Toronto Zoo, one of the largest and most impressive zoos in North America. The district is also home to several parks and natural areas, including the Rouge National Urban Park and the Highland Creek Ravine.

Arts and Culture

Scarborough—Guildwood has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a number of community-based organizations and institutions operating in the area. The Scarborough Arts Council is a local non-profit organization that supports artists and cultural organizations in the community, while the Guildwood Theatre is a beloved community institution that stages a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year. Other notable cultural events in the area include the Scarborough Afro-Carib Fest, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean, and the Scarborough Worldwide Film Festival, which showcases films from around the world.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, economic and social issues were at the forefront of the campaign in Scarborough—Guildwood. Candidates from all parties promised to address issues related to affordable housing, community safety, and healthcare. Additionally, education and employment were key issues for many voters, with several candidates outlining plans to invest in new job training and education programs.

Community Organizations

There are several community organizations in Scarborough—Guildwood that are working to address economic and social issues in the area. The Guildwood Village Community Association is a local group that advocates for the preservation of the historic Guildwood Village neighbourhood, while the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities is a non-profit organization that provides healthcare and support services to residents of the district. Other notable organizations include the West Hill Community Services group, which provides a range of social and support services to residents of the West Hill area, and the Birchmount Bluffs Neighbourhood Centre, which offers a variety of programs and services for youth and families in the district.

Multicultural Groups

Scarborough—Guildwood is one of the most diverse districts in Canada, with a wide range of cultural and ethnic groups represented in the area. Some of the most significant cultural demographic segments include Chinese, Tamil, and Filipino communities. There are several local organizations that serve these communities, including the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, the Tamil Canadian Centre for Civic Action, and the Filipino Canadian Community House.