CONTACT US SMCAT Project Assistant VATHANA NITHARSAN Email: nvathana@agincourtcommunityservices.com Phone: (416) 991-1968 Can support any QAG-related questions Contact us First name* Last name* Email* Phone Message* Submit GENERAL Email: southmarkhamconnects@gmail.com Instagram: @southmarkhamconnects Twitter: @southmarkhamCAT Facebook: @southmarkhamconnects Phone: (647) 209-9981 In-Person on Fridays at Aaniin Community Centre Community Hub Office 5665 14th Ave, Markham, ON L3S 3K5 9:00AM-3:00PM SMCAT Coordinator CAMILLA SINGH E-mail: scamilla@agincourtcommunityservices.com Phone: (647) 209-9981 SMCAT Lead Community Ambassador SIVAKAMI THILAGARAJAH Email: southmarkhamcat@gmail.com

RESOURCES Here are some of the organizations in South Markham and York Region who provide services to residents. We will continue to update this list regularly. CAREER/ EMPLOYMENT Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 416-787-1151 E: services@jvstoronto.org JVS Toronto Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 1-877-761-1155 Email: info@welcomecentre.ca One-stop service designed to guide and support immigrants through the information and resources in York Region. Services include settlement and integration services, English language training, accreditation, employment supports, and other services for women, youth, and seniors Welcome Centre Immigrant Services CHILDCARE Education, Childcare EarlyON Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca Your Support Services Network EDUCATION Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Education, Childcare EarlyON Name Mental Health and Wellness, Education, Childcare Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education, Volunteer Tel: (905) 940-3688 Email: info@markhamwesley.com Markham Wesley Centre Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board FINANCES Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region FOOD Food, Mental Health and Well-Being York Region Food Network is a community organization that offers services and programs to support food security. We also educate and advocate for actions to reduce food insecurity. Tel: 905-841-3101 Email: 4moreinfo@yrfn.ca York Region Food Network HELPLINE 211 Helpline Helpline 211 is a free service that connects individuals and families with the complete range of government, health, community and social services in their communities. Tel: 211 Access York Helpline Access York is a corporate contact Centre for services offered by the Region of York. T: 1-877-464-9675 TTY (for deaf and hard of hearing): 1-866-512-6228 Email: accessyork@york.ca Assaulted Women's Helpline Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being The Assaulted Women’s Helpline provides a safe space, free of judgment anytime, day or night, to support, listen and guide women who have experienced any type of abuse anywhere in Ontario. Tel: 1-866-863-0511 TTY: 1-866-863-7868 #SAFE (#7233) On your Bell, Rogers, Fido, or Telus mobile phone Black Youth Helpline Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Black Youth Helpline serves all youth and specifically responds to the need for a Black youth specific service, positioned and resourced to promote access to professional, culturally appropriate support for youth, families and schools. Tel: 1-833-294-8650 Email: info@blackyouth.ca Carefirst Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Family Services York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline Hope for Wellness Helpline Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous people across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online ‘chat’ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Tel: 1-855-242-3310 Suicide Crisis Helpline Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being National telephone and text suicide prevention and support Tel: 988 Text: 988 Kids Help Phone Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Kids Help Phone is Canada's only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, multilingual and confidential support to help all young people Feel Out Loud. Tel: 1-800-668-6868 York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Regional Police Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Emergency Tel: 911 Non-Emergency Tel: 1-866-876-5423 TTY: 1-800-668-0398 York Region Centre for Community Safety Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905-836-7601 Email: info@yrccs.ca Address: 107-25 Deverill Court, Markham, ON L6G 0C7 Your Support Services Network Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca HOUSING Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Food, Housing, Newcomer Services Tel: 416-321-6912 Email: info@agincourtcommunityservices.com Agincourt Community Services Association Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Housing Tel: 905-898-1007 Housing York Inc. Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Housing Affordable housing changes lives. MICAH is an all volunteer not-for-profit, charitable organisation that builds affordable housing. Contact form on website Markham Inter-Church Committee for Affordable Housing Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region LEGAL Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline The Assaulted Women’s Helpline provides a safe space, free of judgment anytime, day or night, to support, listen and guide women who have experienced any type of abuse anywhere in Ontario. T: 1-866-863-0511 TTY (for deaf/and of hearing): 1-866-863-7868 Text #SAFE to #7233 On your Bell, Rogers, Fido, or Telus mobile phone E: accessyork@york.ca Assaulted Women's Helpline Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline Black Youth Helpline serves all youth and specifically responds to the need for a Black youth specific service, positioned and resourced to promote access to professional, culturally appropriate support for youth, families and schools. T: 1-833-294-8650 E: info@blackyouth.ca Black Youth Helpline Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline Family Services York Region Mental Health and Wellness, Education, Childcare Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Wellness, Primary Care Health for All Family Health Team Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous people across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online ‘chat’ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Tel: 1-855-242-3310 Hope for Wellness Helpline Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, multilingual and confidential support to help all young people Feel Out Loud. T: 1-800-668-6868 Text: 686868 Kids Help Phone Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being National telephone and text suicide prevention and support Tel: 988 Text: 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Emergency T: 911 Non-Emergency T: 1 (866) 876-5423 TTY: 1-800-668-0398. York Regional Police Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca Your Support Services Network Food, Mental Health and Well-Being York Region Food Network is a community organization that offers services and programs to support food security. We also educate and advocate for actions to reduce food insecurity. Tel: 905-841-3101 Email: 4moreinfo@yrfn.ca York Region Food Network Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905-836-7601 Email: info@yrccs.ca Address: 107-25 Deverill Court, Markham, ON L6G 0C7 York Region Centre for Community Safety NEWCOMER SERVICES Food, Housing, Newcomer Services Tel: 416-321-6912 Email: info@agincourtcommunityservices.com Agincourt Community Services Association Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 416-787-1151 E: services@jvstoronto.org JVS Toronto Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 1-877-761-1155 Email: info@welcomecentre.ca One-stop service designed to guide and support immigrants through the information and resources in York Region. Services include settlement and integration services, English language training, accreditation, employment supports, and other services for women, youth, and seniors Welcome Centre Immigrant Services PRIMARY CARE Housing, Education, Mental Health and Well-Being, Food, Finances, Primary Care, Volunteer Tel: 416-646-5108 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Mental Health and Well-Being, Primary Care Tel: (905) 472-2200 Health for All Family Health Team SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network VOLUNTEER Housing, Education, Mental Health and Well-Being, Food, Finances, Primary Care, Volunteer Tel: 416-646-5108 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Education, Volunteer Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education, Food, Finances, Newcomer Services, Legal, Volunteer Email: PAR program inquiries PARinquiries@jhsyork.ca Youth Services inquiries - YSinquiries@jhsyork.ca Adult Services inquiries - ASinquiries@jhsyork.ca Admin info@jhsyrok.ca Telephone 905 895 9943 EXT: PAR 200 Adult services 400 Youth services 300 John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education, Volunteer Tel: 905-940-3688 Email: info@markhamwesley.com Markham Wesley Centre Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services, Volunteer, TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region

SMCAT PROJECTS Housing Opportunities Modelling Empowerment Project Mental Well-Being Research Project Benches 2 Bridges Project

HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES MODELLING EMPOWERMENT (H.O.M.E) South Markham Community Action Table's (SMCAT) H.O.M.E. (Housing Opportunities Modelling Empowerment) Project was developed through the collective insights provided by residents, ambassadors and agency partners. The H.O.M.E Project was launched to build resident capacity, provide support around housing stability, and address barriers to accessing services. Project Goals 1. To examine service pathways to better understand and address barriers surrounding housing stability 2. Create opportunities for tenant-led initiatives and resident-led capacity building 2023 Timeline Results From the results of the SMCAT Housing Needs Survey, the SMCAT worked with community partners to develop H.O.M.E. Project Workshop Series, that would address many of the barriers uncovered in the survey. Topics Included: Making Markam Home - In collaboration with SMCAT Resident Leaders Mental Health Support Teams - In collaboration with York Regional Police (YRP) and Your Support Services Network (YSSN) Civics 101 - In collaboration with SMCAT Resident Leaders RentSmart - In collaboration with Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Spoken Word - In collaboration with Health Empowerment & Arts Leverage (H.E.A.L.) John Howard Society Youth Services Information Session - In collaboration with John Howard Society of York Region (JHSYR) Navigating Subsidized Housing in York Region - In collaboration with York Region Human Rights and Housing - In collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights (CCHR) Self-Care in a Challenging Time - In collaboration with Carefirst Repairs and Maintenance - In collaboration with the CCHR Budgeting 101 - In collaboration with Women’s Centre of York Region Effective Communication/Interpersonal Relationships - In collaboration with Carefirst Eviction Prevention and Tenants Rights - In collaboration with the Community Legal Clinic of York Region (CLCYR) Music: What Home Feels Like - In collaboration with H.E.A.L. Budgeting for Your First Home - In collaboration with The Financial Moment

MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL WELL-BEING “A state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community”. The World Health Organization defines Mental Health/Mental Well-Being as: Community Safety and Well-Bring Plan for York Region Actions from the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (found here , pg 62) to address Mental Health/Mental Well-Being in 2024 in South Markham include: Through community consultation, York Region identified Mental Health/Mental Well-Being as one of the top risks to safety and well-being in South Markham. South Markham Community Action Table (SMCAT) is working with residents, service providers and other stakeholders to move forward a Community Action Plan from York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan to address Mental Health/Mental Well-Being in South Markham. Our Impact So Far Since 2022, the SMCAT has been working to address Actions from the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (found here , pg 62). The table below shows all of the work that the SMCAT has done so far to address Mental Health and Mental Well-Being, as well as highlights the Actions we plan to focus on in 2024. We should note that while Actions have been marked as completed, these Actions are considered “Completed and Ongoing” as more can always be done to address these actions.

GET INVOLVED Community Ambassadors Program Community Ambassadors are community leaders in south central Markham who support the SMCAT in making positive changes in our community. SMCAT Community Ambassadors have participated in a York Region training to gain knowledge and skills to build awareness and engage their communities. For more information or if you are interested in becoming a Community Ambassador, please contact the SMCAT Coordinator by email at scamilla@agincourtcommunityservices.com or by phone at (647) 209-9981. Join the Community Action Table The SMCAT is looking for individuals and organizations passionate about Housing Stability and Mental Health and Mental Well-Being to participate in the Community Action Table and inform our work around these priority issues. By joining the Community Action Table, you will become part of a network of service providers and residents working collaboratively to move forward actions from the Community Safety and Well-Being plan. For more information or if you are interested in joining the SMCAT, please contact the SMCAT Coordinator by email at scamilla@agincourtcommunityservices.com or by phone at (647) 209-9981. Community Ambassadors Program Join the Community Action Table Resident Leader's Group Quick Action Grants Resident Leader’s Group The SMCAT works with local residents to inform York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. The Resident Leaders Group was created as a space for residents passionate about improving their community to work together to create change. Resident Leaders work with the SMCAT to inform the real day-to-day needs and experiences of South Markham’s residents.They represent diverse voices to help address community concerns and share resources and perspectives to support one another in advocacy. For more information or to join the Resident Leader’s Group, please contact the SMCAT Lead Community Ambassadors by email at southmarkhamcat@gmail.com . Quick Action Grants United Way of Greater Toronto is providing the SMCAT Quick Action Grants to address Mental Health and Mental Well-Being and Housing Stability in South Markham. These projects will support the work of York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. For more information, please contact the SMCAT Project Assistant by email at nvathana@agincourtcommunityservices.com or by phone at (416) 991-1968.

BENCHES 2 BRIDGES PROJECT The Benches 2 Bridges Project in South Markham addresses a crucial need for shared spaces that foster connections, especially for newcomers and seniors who may face social isolation. The Benches 2 Bridges Project underscores the importance of community engagement and representation from a place-based context. Centered on the resident-led construction of culturally-relevant, landmark, resource benches in the community, this project aims to create intergenerational spaces where people of different ages can come together and to reduce loneliness and provide opportunities for diverse perspectives and continuity. Project Goals 1. Decrease isolation in pocket communities across South Markham, with a focus on addressing cultural barriers 2. Create opportunities for resident-led capacity building, bringing residents together so that they can express their experiences through art, and to build community cohesiveness 3. Raise awareness of community resources around MH/MWB and HS through promotion of community partners and the SMCAT service navigation tool 2024 Timeline Worked with faith-based and cultural organizations to create spaces in South Markham for those of various cultural backgrounds who may not be connected to other services Hosted community consultations that facilitated story-telling and experience-sharing of residents, which were captured and included in bench designs that represented each diverse community where the bench was installed Hosted bench-painting workshops for residents to create artwork on the project benches from the bench designs generated Benches include a QR code linking to this website, where they can learn more about the initiative and resources available around Mental Health/Mental Well-Being, Housing Stability, and many other support services in the community The SMCAT shared resources and information around Mental Health/Mental Well-Being and Housing Stability through outreach, at the community consultations, and bench-painting workshops to raise awareness of available services in community Hosted the SMCAT Annual Housing Summit to celebrate the success of the B2B Project, and continue to break stereotypes around Housing Stability, Mental Health/Mental Well-Being, and social isolation Results B2B at 105 Gibson Centre B2B at Hagerman Corners B2B at Milliken Wesleyan Methodist Church At 105 Gibson Centre, the B2B Project brought together women, newcomers and long-time residents alike, from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences, creating a supportive and family-like atmosphere during consultations and workshops. Participants, many of whom had felt isolated before, shared personal stories, supported each other in various ways, and worked collaboratively on the bench painting, making a meaningful and lasting contribution to the centre. “Working with diverse women of all ages, from different backgrounds like Chinese, Sri Lankan, and Russian, felt like a family—a village. We all contributed in different ways, even if it wasn’t painting, and that made the experience meaningful. I’m proud of the bond we formed as we worked toward a common goal. That connection was priceless." – Benches 2 Bridges Participant Hagerman Corners Community Homes is a lively intergenerational community, home to both seniors and families. Through the B2B Project, residents engaged in meaningful conversations about their experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational connections. Hagerman Corners is a place where neighbours look out for one another, fostering a community built on joy and love. This sense of togetherness was evident during the community consultations and bench painting workshops, where residents expressed their appreciation for having the SMCAT team on-site. The team not only facilitated the workshops but also shared valuable resources and information on ways to get involved in the broader community. Residents shared that, by the end of the project, they felt less isolated. The joy and love that define Hagerman Corners is now beautifully reflected not only in the final bench created but also in the everyday interactions among residents who participated in the workshops. “We have never done something like this before. It really keeps the mind going, it’s something to do. All the fun, jokes and laughter - we need more of these things to attend and de-stress.” – Hagerman Corners Residents The B2B project at the Milliken Wesleyan Methodist Church is a vibrant testament to the community’s rich cultural mosaic. The Community Consultations facilitated a conversation about residents’ identities and the community identity: about their shared values of compassion, unity, and connection, and how these values transcend culture. As the project carries out, residents continue to foster a deeper connection and sense of belonging through investing joint efforts in this community project. “As a child, I loved that I got to know [diversity]. Here, we are becoming a puzzle, a mosaic, each piece is diverse, each coming from different places. It’s a matter of taking the time to put it together, so much can happen if we are willing to come together and fit into our spot.” - Milliken Wesleyan Methodist Church Resident

Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Food, Housing, Newcomer Services Tel: 416-321-6912 Email: info@agincourtcommunityservices.com Agincourt Community Services Association Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Housing Tel: 905-898-1007 Housing York Inc. Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Housing Affordable housing changes lives. MICAH is an all volunteer not-for-profit, charitable organisation that builds affordable housing. Contact form on website Markham Inter-Church Committee for Affordable Housing Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region RESOURCES Here are some of the organizations in South Markham and York Region who provide services to residents. We will continue to update this list regularly. Careers/Employment Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 416-787-1151 E: services@jvstoronto.org JVS Toronto Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 1-877-761-1155 Email: info@welcomecentre.ca One-stop service designed to guide and support immigrants through the information and resources in York Region. Services include settlement and integration services, English language training, accreditation, employment supports, and other services for women, youth, and seniors Welcome Centre Immigrant Services Childcare Developmental Services Education Finances Helpline Housing Legal Newcomer Services Primary Care Senior Support Services Volunteer Career/Employment Mental Health and Well-Being Childcare Education, Childcare EarlyON Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board Developmental Services Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca Your Support Services Network Education Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Education, Childcare EarlyON Name Mental Health and Wellness, Education, Childcare Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education T: (905) 940-3688 E: info@markhamwesley.com Markham Wesley Centre Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board Finances Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region Helpline Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline Family Services York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca Your Support Services Network Housing Mental Health and Well-Being Legal Housing, Legal, Education Tel: 416-944-0087 Canadian Centre for Housing Rights Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Careers/Employment, Food, Finances, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905 946 8787 Email: info@105gibson.com 105 Gibson Centre Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905 475 6694 360 Kids Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment Tel: 905-841-3977 Email: yorkregion@cmha-yr.on.ca Canadian Mental Health Association of York Region Housing, Education, Helpline, Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 416-502-2323 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline Family Services York Region Mental Health and Wellness, Education, Childcare Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Wellness, Primary Care Health for All Family Health Team Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education Tel: 905.895.9943 Email: admin@johnhowardyorkregion.on.ca John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Finances T: 905-853-9270 Women’s Centre of York Region Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Finances York Region Education, Childcare, Mental Health and Well-Being T: 416-969-8131 York Region District School Board Mental Health and Well-Being Tel: 905-764-1300 | General Line: ext. 6709 York Regional Police Mental Health and Well-Being, Helpline, Developmental Services T: 905.898.6455 E: contact@yssn.ca Your Support Services Network Newcomer Services Food, Housing, Newcomer Services Tel: 416-321-6912 Email: info@agincourtcommunityservices.com Agincourt Community Services Association Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services A not-for-profit organization that provides nine areas of services including core settlement and integration services, employment services, language and training services, and more Tel: 416-292-7510 Email: info@cicscanada.com Centre of Immigrant and Community Services Careers/Employment, Housing City of Markham Careers/Employment, Legal, Finances, Housing, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services Tel: 905-508-5018 Email: client@clcyr.on.ca Community Legal Clinic of York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 416-787-1151 E: services@jvstoronto.org JVS Toronto Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Careers/Employment, Newcomer Services T: 1-877-761-1155 Email: info@welcomecentre.ca One-stop service designed to guide and support immigrants through the information and resources in York Region. Services include settlement and integration services, English language training, accreditation, employment supports, and other services for women, youth, and seniors Welcome Centre Immigrant Services Primary Care Housing, Education, Mental Health and Well-Being, Food, Finances, Primary Care, Volunteer Tel: 416-646-5108 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Mental Health and Well-Being, Primary Care Tel: (905) 472-2200 Health for All Family Health Team Mental Health and Well-Being, Senior Support Services T: (905) 554-9033 E: naz@ssnon.com Social Services Network Senior Support Services Volunteer Housing, Education, Mental Health and Well-Being, Food, Finances, Primary Care, Volunteer Tel: 416-646-5108 Email: info@carefirstontario.ca Carefirst Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Education, Volunteer Tel: (647) 699-8416 Email: info@giftedpeopleser.org Gifted People Services Mental Health and Well-Being, Housing, Careers/Employment, Education, Food, Finances, Newcomer Services, Legal, Volunteer Email: PAR program inquiries PARinquiries@jhsyork.ca Youth Services inquiries - YSinquiries@jhsyork.ca Adult Services inquiries - ASinquiries@jhsyork.ca Admin info@jhsyrok.ca Telephone 905 895 9943 EXT: PAR 200 Adult services 400 Youth services 300 John Howard Society of York Region’s (JHSYR) mandate is to provide evidence-based and outcome-driven programs that address crime and its root causes. Our programs range from helping youth develop the life skills that will let them achieve full potential, to helping families navigate issues of criminal justice, to providing job training for those leaving incarceration so they can contribute to their community in a meaningful way. John Howard Society of York Region Mental Health and Well-Being, Careers/Employment, Education, Newcomer Services, Volunteer T: 905.513.7977 Markham Public Library Education, Careers/Employment, Mental Health and Well-Being, Newcomer Services, Volunteer, TCCSA is a non-profit settlement agency dedicated to assisting thousands of newcomers to settle and integrate into the Canadian society each year. T: (416) 977-4026 E: info@tccsa.org The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association Volunteer, Newcomer Services, Mental Health and Well-Being, Finances, Education, Childcare T: (289) 469-5346 E:info@volunteerconnect.ca Volunteer Connect York Region

HOUSING STABILITY “Having an affordable place to live that is safe, secure, comfortable and located in one’s chosen community.” York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan defines Housing Stability as: Through community consultation, York Region identified Housing Stability as one of the top risks to safety and well-being in South Markham. South Markham Community Action Table (SMCAT) is working with residents, service providers and other stakeholders to move forward a Community Action Plan from York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan to address Housing Stability in South Markham. Our Impact So Far Since 2022, the SMCAT has been working to address Actions from the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (found here , pg 62). The table below shows all of the work that the SMCAT has done so far to address Housing Stability, as well as highlights the Actions we plan to focus on in 2024. We should note that while Actions have been marked as completed, these Actions are considered “Completed and Ongoing” as more can always be done to address these actions.

Building Bridges, Connecting Communities SMCAT The South Markham Community Action Table (SMCAT) was established through York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan to bring partners together and build community capacity to drive change. The SMCAT is community driven, with a network of residents, service providers and other stakeholders working together to address priorities of Housing Stability and Mental Health and Mental Well-Being. The SMCAT supports a variety of activities and initiatives that work to improve housing stability and mental health and mental well-being and strengthen our South Markham community. York Region's Community Safety and Well-Being Plan Access to the Plan You can find more information on York Region’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, as well as the Action Plan carried out by the SMCAT. Events Stay tuned for the latest events offered by SMCAT. Quick Action Grants Round 1 See flyer for details What is a Resident Leader? Free Community Workshop March 20, 2024 4pm-6pm at Aaniin Community Centre Spring Fun Night Flyer March 11, 2024 4pm-7pm at Aaniin Community Centre Healthy Families Workshops See flyer for details South Markham DIY Clay Deco Workshop February 24, 2024 3pm-7pm at Aaniin Community Centre Harmonic Harmonies See flyer for details Connecting to Community Workshops February 17, 2024 1pm-4pm at Aaniin Community Centre February 25, 2024 2pm-5pm at Aaniin Community Centre Healing Arts February 25, 2024 1pm-3pm at Aaniin Community Centre A Cultural Community Celebration: Lunar New Year 2024 February 16, 2024 9am-2:30pm at Wilclay Public School A Cultural Community Celebration: Lunar New Year 2024 February 16, 2024 9am-2:30pm at Wilclay Public School SMCAT Housing Summit December 20, 2023 SMCAT Family Fun Night December 17, 2023 Quick Action Grant: Resident-Led Dementia Awareness Workshop Series December 9, 2023 - February 10, 2024 Budgeting for Your First Home Workshop November 16, 2023 H.E.A.L. x H.O.M.E. Project: Music and Home Workshop November 14, 2023 Eviction Prevention and Tenants Rights Workshop November 13, 2023 Effective Communication/Interpersonal Relationships Workshop November 7, 2023 Repairs and Maintenance Workshop October 26, 2023 Self-Care in a Challenging Time Workshop October 24, 2023 Quick Action Grant: Resident-Led Music and Autism Concert October 21, 2023 Human Rights and Housing Workshop October 18, 2023 Navigating Subsidized Housing in York Region Workshop October 17, 2023 Quick Action Grant: Agency-Led York Region Food Network’s Food & Belonging Fall Workshops October 16-December 11, 2023 Quick Action Grant: Resident-Led Bond & Care’s Mental Health Lecture October 15, 2023 H.E.A.L. x H.O.M.E. Project: Spoken Word/Poetry and Home Workshop October 3, 2023 See more events

MENTAL WELL-BEING RESEARCH PROJECT The South Markham Community Action Table supported York University in a collaborative, community-engaged, and equity-oriented project to learn from various perspectives on the ways to support mental health and mental well-being of residents in South Markham. The image below summarized many of the insights shared by local residents and service providers. Moving Forward Moving forward, the SMCAT will be working to provide services that are reflective of the insights shared from this study and from continuing to listen to the feedback and insights of South Markham residents.