First of Eight Community Hubs Opens in Mid-Scarborough
Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods are challenged by a lack of space for community use and service delivery. This lack of space limits the skill-building, recreational, cultural, and social opportunities of the people who live there. In response, as part of United Way's Building Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy, United Way has partnered with West Hill Community Services, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, and the Central East Local Heath Integration Network to bring the first of eight planned Community Hubs to the priority neighbourhoods.
The Mid-Scarborough Hub at Eglinton East/ Kennedy Park will lay the foundation for strengthening the community by providing various programs and services under one roof—including community health and dental services, career planning and employment counselling, addiction and mental health services, as well as diabetes education, health promotion and services for seniors.
"Good health is about more than treating illness, it's also about healthy living and healthy communities," said Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long Term Care. "Community Health Centres, like this one, are a valuable resource for local residents."
The grand opening of the Hub, located in the Eglinton East/Kennedy Park community, was launched by Minister Matthews, Frances Lankin, President and CEO, United Way Toronto and Jeanie Joaquin, Executive Director, West Hill Community Services.
"Today, we've reached a milestone in our efforts to create vibrant, livable neighbourhoods for everyone, regardless of who you are or where you come from," said Frances Lankin. "We know that neighbourhoods are stronger and more resilient when people have access to the support they need. The Mid-Scarborough Hub will be an important focal point at the heart of the community for people to come together and access services under one roof." Thanks to all of our donors who helped to make this project possible.
First of Eight Community Hubs Opens in Mid-Scarborough was a feature story in our quarterly newsletter, Community Matters: February 2009
