$125,600 OTF grant creates new space for vulnerable individuals in Wingham

WINGHAM, ON (September 29, 2023):  On Friday, MPP Lisa Thompson formally congratulated the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA Huron Perth) on the extensive renovation work done as a result of receiving a $125,600 Capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant, awarded in 2022, was used for the renovations at St. Paul’s Trinity Anglican Church. These renovations have given rise to the Northern Huron Connection Centre which will offer vital, wraparound supports to local individuals facing homelessness or vulnerability. This initiative, led by the United Way Perth-Huron and operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services (CMHA Huron Perth), addresses a critical need in the community.

“The Trillium Foundation’s substantial contribution has been instrumental in realizing this transformation,” said Hon. Lisa Thompson, MPP Huron-Bruce. “The establishment of the Northern Huron Connection Centre is a tremendous step forward in our community’s efforts to address homelessness and vulnerability.”

From trauma-informed care to case management services, the Northern Huron Connection Centre caters to essential needs such as showers, laundry facilities, meeting rooms and sustenance. Rooted in a client-centred approach, the Centre places dignity and choice at the forefront, with a core mission of securing permanent housing solutions for its clients.

“We are grateful to the Trillium Foundation for their dedication to community well-being through this grant,” said Ryan Erb, Executive Director, United Way Perth-Huron. “As the fourth of its kind in Huron and Perth County, Northern Huron Connection Centre will have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those served by the Centre.”

“We would also like to thank Libro Credit Union for their $20,000 grant in support of capital work on the Connection Centre project and the Red Cross for granting us $61,645 for administration and staffing. Together, these grants are laying a strong financial foundation for the Centre as a lasting resource for vulnerable people in the community.” 

“Our focus is on addressing the diverse needs of vulnerable individuals through a wide spectrum of supports,” said Catherine Hardman, CEO, CMHA Huron Perth. “Thanks to the Trillium Foundation, clients will enjoy significant improvements including the installation of essential shower and laundry facilities, new flooring, expanded office and storage space, and the refurbishment of existing bathrooms.”

Located at 23 John Street in Wingham, within the premises of St. Paul’s Trinity Anglican Church, the Centre stands as a symbol of hope and community.

“We’re pleased to be able to help individuals in search of housing stability,” said Rev. JoAnn Todd, Minister of St. Paul’s Trinity Anglican Church. “This collaborative initiative is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves, and St. Paul’s Trinity is honoured to offer spiritual guidance and a welcoming church community to all who are interested.”

For inquiries and more information about the Northern Huron Connection Centre, please contact Tanya Hefkey, Supervisor, tanya.hefkey@cmhahuronperth.com.

About Ontario Trillium Foundation
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

About Canadian Mental Health Association, Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services
CMHA Huron Perth is a local mental health and addictions agency which provides a variety of services, including addiction counselling for youth and adults, mental health case management, peer support, court support, counselling for problem gambling/behavioural change, supportive housing, community withdrawal management and more. Our goal is to provide quality services and easier access for those impacted by mental health and/or addiction issues in the ommunities across Huron and Perth.

About United Way Perth-Huron
UWPH helps here in the community you care about, tackling #UNIGNORABLE issues including homelessness, mental health and access to services. Thanks to United Way, its partners, and donors, vulnerable people across Perth-Huron have the chance for a brighter future. To show your #LocalLove by donating or volunteering, call 519-271-7730 or 1-877-818-8867, mail to 32 Erie Street, Stratford, ON N5A 2M4 or visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Catherine Hardman
Chief Executive Officer
CMHA Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services
catherine.hardman@cmhahuronperth.com

Ryan Erb
Executive Director
United Way Perth-Huron
rerb@perthhuron.unitedway.ca