Access

Our Access Programme seeks to educate people about services and benefits so that they are able to address matters that impact on their ability to be self-sufficient.  Tax rebates, income programs, voice mail, free eye glasses, child care, health cards and emergency food are examples of services people can access by calling our office.  Using a comprehensive database of services we are able to help people make the connections they need quickly and effectively

Staff have the resources to address crisis situations leading to poor nutrition, family breakdown and violence.  People with language problems, economic or physical or emotional disabilities are assisted in their search for means to remain independent. 

By working to facilitate access for those unable to do so independently -- the mentally challenged, abused children and spouses, the frail elderly and those with language communication problems -- we can ensure they get more stability in their lives as soon as possible.  Once a crisis has been addressed staff follow up by encouraging opportunities for growth.

Housing

Our Housing Program helps people in shelters, hospitals and other institutions to find housing and attain some self-sufficiency.  By working with families and individuals in crisis situations staff are able to reduce the time people are dependent on social supports that institutions provide.  Tenants with disputes with landlords are assisted in working out their problems more independently and without the intervention of formal courts or tribunals to avoid evictions and the potential to end up having to go to a shelter.  Working with the private housing market, our staff can help individuals and families by strengthening their capacity to search out potential accommodation.

Through follow up counselling and life skills training this work strengthens the coping ability of housing seekers, giving them an opportunity to address other important matters such as employment.  This makes it less likely that they will find themselves in another housing crisis in the future.

Neighbourhood

Our Neighbourhood Programme works with families and children in the area north of Albion Road.  Our after school clubs provide children with opportunities such as cooking, fixing bikes, homework support, safety, swimming, and conflict resolution.  This past winter we developed a before school read, run and snack activity in partnership with staff of a local social housing complex.  It was extremely well-received by young children in the neighbourhood. and we hope to repeat the program during the next school year.

A summer day camp for children 6 - 12 years of age is held each summer at prices local families can afford.  The camp offers safety, science, culture, fitness, cooking, reading and environmental activities and experiences.  Weekly field trips are part of the program.  We look for activities that will enlarge a child's ability to see their potential, leading to healthy growth and development.

Staff of this programme also seek to address educational, personal and health issues through child and adult support groups.  Group sessions are offered to enable parents to be more socially active and learn about opportunities for addressing matters such as nutrition, health, housing, child care and job training.

Each year a variety of other family activities are part of this programme such as pick-your-own bus trips, a Moms and Tots Group, a March Break Program and a large family dinner in December to celebrate the year end.

All of our Neighbourhood Program activities are focused on enriching the lives of those living in our community -- a community experiencing the resulting difficulties and issues that exist as a result of poverty.

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