New community health event announced

Coutesy of Ontario Health Team of Northumberland

By Cecilia Nasmith

The Ontario Health Team of Northumberland, in partnership with the Human Services and Justice Co-ordinating Committee of Northumberland, is proud to present Come Together Northumberland on May 8 – a collaborative community event that runs from 9 a.m. to 3 pm. at the Cobourg Community Centre.

This free event will bring together service providers, organizations and community members from across the county with the goal of building awareness of local programs, services and referral pathways related to mental health, addictions, homelessness, human and social services, as well as the justice sector.

HSJCC Northumberland co-chairs Lisa Searle and Tasha Atkinson said that much of their work deals with strengthening how the justice system, health care and social services work together in supporting people with complex needs.

“This event creates space for those conversations, helps build understanding, and supports more co-ordinated, compassionate approaches across our community,” the announcement said.

Chloe Craig, a Cobourg resident and OHT-N Experience Partner volunteer, said it's an opportunity to learn what supports are available for mental health, addictions, homelessness, social justice and human services.

“It's not always easy to know where to go for help, so bringing everything together like this really matters.”

The first two hours of the event are closed to the public to provide a networking and information-exchange opportunity for service providers.

At noon, guest speaker Chad Valyear (peer-support worker and recovery advocate) will welcome everyone. Following his talk, the event becomes a community open house, ope to all.

Organizations are encouraged to share this opportunity with staff and networks, and community members are invited to attend and learn more about the supports and services available across Northumberland.