Ontario Government to Launch Youth Wellness Hub in Brampton

BRAMPTON, ON — The Ontario government has announced the launch of a new Youth Wellness Hub in Brampton, aiming to provide faster and easier access to mental health and substance use services for young people in the Peel Region. This initiative is part of a broader provincial effort to expand mental health support, adding 10 new hubs to the existing 22 since 2020, bringing the total to 32 hubs across Ontario.

Commitment to Mental Health and Addictions Support

Under Premier Doug Ford’s leadership, the government is prioritizing improvements in mental health and addiction services across Ontario. Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones emphasized this commitment, stating, “Our government is continuing to take action to improve mental health and addictions services in communities across Ontario, and support people and their families living with mental health and substance use challenges.”

The new hub, slated to open in 2025, will provide vital services to youth aged 12 to 25 and their families. These services will be free and easily accessible, offering a convenient, centralized location for young people to receive the care they need close to home.

Our government is making it easier for youth in #Brampton to connect to mental health supports and more with the launch of our newest Youth Wellness Hub.

This Hub joins the 23 we have announced since 2020, ensuring those aged 12-25 can access care and services, closer to home. pic.twitter.com/5JrG1Mjtmv

— Sylvia Jones (@SylviaJonesMPP) June 13, 2024

Comprehensive and Culturally Appropriate Services

The Brampton Youth Wellness Hub will offer a range of services, including mental health and substance use support, primary care, and peer support in a safe, youth-friendly environment. Additional services will include vocational support, education, employment assistance, housing support, and access to community programs. Importantly, the hub will also cater to the needs of children and youth involved with child welfare services, whether currently in care or transitioning out.

Peel Children’s Aid Society will lead the co-design of the hub, working in collaboration with youth and community partners to ensure the diverse voices and unique needs of Indigenous, First Nations, and Black youth are central to the planning and design process.

Ensuring Youth Feel Safe and Supported

Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, highlighted the importance of the hubs in creating supportive communities for youth. “By continuing to expand our network of Youth Wellness Hubs, our government is ensuring youth across the province have convenient access to the highest-quality mental health and addictions supports, when and where they need them. Peel Region’s new Youth Wellness Hub will be a place for young people to feel safe and connected to a community that supports them and helps equip them with the tools they need to face life’s challenges.”

A Broader Strategy for Connected Care

This initiative is part of the government’s “Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care,” which seeks to streamline access to various health and social services for young people across the province. By expanding the number of Youth Wellness Hubs, the Ontario government aims to make it faster and easier for youth to access comprehensive support for mental health, substance use, and more.

The new Youth Wellness Hub in Brampton represents a significant step forward in enhancing mental health and addiction services for young people in Peel Region, ensuring they receive the necessary support in an inclusive and accessible environment.