History of Centre 55
Built on the site of the former East Toronto Town Hall, the Centre 55 building was constructed to house Toronto Police Station #10 (later renamed Station #55). The police service shared the building with public health and community workers
When Division #55 moved to a larger facility, a group of dedicated local residents began meeting to secure the building for a community centre. They encountered competition from the Department of Emergency Services, which wanted to use the building as a training school and ambulance station.
Local residents successfully persuaded City Council, which contributed $100,000 for renovations. The plant was seeded.
Community Centre 55 was born. Under the management agreement for the new community centre, the city was responsible for maintaining the building and core staff, while the centre would fund the programming. Centre 55 was to be governed by a Board of Management, which was elected annually. For the first few years, the composition of the Board changed frequently as residents and community groups had different visions for the centre.
Recognizing the immense difficulties for some members of the community during Christmas, Centre 55 began its Share-A-Christmas program, aimed at providing much needed support to individuals and families during the holiday season.
Governance of the centre stabilized and an outpouring of fundraising began with a greatly expanded list of programs and services under the leadership of Centre 55’s third Executive Director, Bob Murdoch.
The City of Toronto designated the building as of historical importance.
Centre 55 continues to build on its great legacy as a pillar of community development and support with over 40 programs available for members of all ages, in addition to spearheading numerous events and fundraising campaigns. For now and forever, Centre 55 will be the heart of the community. We are proud to carry on this important tradition of programming and community service excellence.