Approval to receive Atkinson Foundation Grant for AnchorTO Phase 4 - by Councillor Anthony Perruzza, seconded by Councillor Michael Thompson

AnchorTO is entering the fourth phase of work. In the first phase, a community of practice was established to socialize the concept of social procurement. In the second phase of work, a blueprint framework was established so anchor institutions could better understand how to incorporate social procurement within their legal and operational constraints. The most recently completed third phase of work was focused on moving towards implementation of the Blueprint. The fourth phase of work will include the development of: - social procurement vendor lists, including businesses owned by Black and Indigenous residents; - communications and training material for purchasing professionals; and - connecting anchor programs more intentionally with community-based economic development initiatives. The Atkinson Foundation has agreed to provide the City of Toronto with a grant of $120,000 for one year to manage and provide resources to the Network. This funding will support the development of concrete resources and dedicated staffing support. This Motion authorizes the Executive Director, Social Development, Finance and Administration Division to receive the Atkinson Foundation grant.

3. City Council increase the 2020 Approved Complement for Social Development, Finance and Administration by 1.0 temporary FTE, and include it in the 2021 Operating Budget Submission, to provide dedicated staff support to AnchorTO.