Strong Communities
Improving Opportunities to Overcome Barriers
Building strong communities means building the assets individuals and families need to handle life’s challenges; these assets reside ‘within’ an individual. We also build assets in the communities and neighbourhoods where we work and live; creating social connections or opportunities to get involved so community members can experience personal safety, belonging and well-being.
The Challenges
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1 in 3
Canadians will experience mental illness in their lifetime.
Why it matters:
Individuals impacted by mental illness may not be able to cope with the most basic aspects of everyday life and may need help to regain a healthy emotional balance in their lives. Many Canadians are affected by it either directly or indirectly through family, friends or colleagues.
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15
Community garden beds enabling individuals and families to feel a sense of inclusion and belonging in their neighbourhood.
Why it matters:
Neighbourhoods play an important role in our sense of wellbeing, and can impact an individual’s health, educational attainment, employment success, and school readiness.
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16%
Of Ontario’s population is 65 years or older.
Why it matters:
As the fastest growing population in the province, it’s important that seniors can receive the assistance they need to live independently for as long as possible.
How We’re Changing Lives
Connecting People to Supports
To ensure people in our community are aware of and able to access programs and services relevant to their needs.
Neighbourhood and Community Engagement
To encourage an increased sense of neighbourhood where people interact, become involved in and contribute in various ways to their community.
Personal Wellbeing and Safety
To strengthen our community, fostering an environment of health, safety and independence and better positioning individuals and families to react when their health and/or safety is compromised.
