Toronto-Carib-Soc-History 1

Toronto Accommodation in 60s

In those days the majority of West Indians lived with family members and after they secured permanent jobs the majority moved out on their own. There was an abundance of places for rent. Rooms were available as much as they were affordable. Shared accommodation was also an option for those with part time jobs and West Indians in Toronto became a close knitted despite the size of the city. . West Indians gained promotions in their respective jobs and became financially viable and stable. And, with economic sustainability in mind, they opened various businesses. They opened Roti Shops, West Indian groceries, Restaurants, Patty Shops, Hair Saloons, Record shops, Boutiques, Tailor shops, Barber Shops, and many other West Indian services that were needed. As is normally the case when food is on the table and financial viability is reached, there came a time to go out and have fun, and it did not matter where in the West Indies you were from.

Back in the late 60s and 70s, accommodation was available on every corner of the city. There were rooms above the stores and homes. High - rise and basement apartments and regular two - story buildings. West Indian families also rented an entire house, while others rented the home and sublet the rooms to family and friends. And while West Indians came prepared for life in Toronto with its four seasons, they conceded that it was not easy to adapt to the weather; therefore, rentals near Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) stops were the most popular for economic and self - preservation.

Toronto was divided into the east side and west side, with Yonge Street serving as the boundary, although the majority of West Indians in those days lived between Lansdowne Avenue and Spadina, in the west end. West Indians who lived in the north south corridor between St Clair Avenue and King Street were also considered to be in the west since the Yonge subway line was the border and the only legitimate north/south option. Wherever the locations were, there was a coming together, and many friendships were fostered among West Indians

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