County offers ID clinic in Cobourg
Image provided by Northumberland County.
By Cecilia Nasmith
On Oct. 28, Northumberland County will host its third and final Identification and Wellness Clinic of the year, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its headquarters at 555 Courthouse Rd.
Access to identification is vital in connecting people with the services and opportunities they need to support their well-being and quality of life. In cases where this documentation must be obtained, updated or replaced, navigating the process can be both challenging and time-consuming.
This event brings together local service providers and government organizations in one convenient location to make the process easier – as well as offering a chance to learn about programs, supports and resources available in the community.
With the opportunity to receive personalized assistance, ask questions and connect directly with organizations that can help them navigate identification applications and access other wellness-related services, response to the previous two clinics in Port Hope and Brighton has been quite positive.
Community and Social Services Client Services Manager Jennifer Glover pointed out in the announcement that valid identification is often the first step in accessing housing, employment, health care, financial services and other essential supports.
“This clinic helps remove barriers by bringing multiple organizations together in one location, making it easier for residents to get the assistance they need,” Glover said.
“Whether someone is replacing important documents, accessing community resources, or is new to Northumberland and looking to connect with available services, the clinic provides a welcoming and convenient starting point.”
The clinic provides the opportunity to connect with:
Northumberland County Community and Social Services (application assistance for Ontario Works and other supports)
Northumberland Paramedics Community Paramedicine Program (medical referrals and program details)
Service Ontario (assistance with health cards, address changes and Ontario Photo Card applications)
Northumberland Help and Legal Centre (assistance with program information, birth certificate applications and the fee-waiver program)
Fleming College Academic Upgrading (flexible skills on-demand and academic upgrading programs)
MP Phillip Lawrence Constituency Office (assistance with Federal programs including Permanent Resident cards, passports and Federal benefit programs)
Ontario Health Team of Northumberland (information on connecting to local primary care resources, such as physicians and nurse practitioners)
Career Edge (Employment Ontario service provider for job seekers and employers)
The clinic is open to all community members, and pre-registration is encouraged to help manage attendance and reduce wait times. There is an on-line form at Northumberland.ca/IDClinic
For more information about transportation options or participating organizations and services, contact Community and Social Services at 1-800-354-7051.
