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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

St. Thomas & Elgin County

2021

A resource guide to

basic needs,

support & services

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We are pleased to present the 2021 edition of Community Connections St. Thomas & Elgin County.

This guide is for informational purposes only. Information contained in this publication has been gathered through The Healthline database.

The information has not been independently verified. For confirmation of the information listed, or any additional information on a program,

please contact the organization or program provider directly.

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211 connects people to the right information and services, strengthen

Canada’s health and human services, and helps Canadians become more

engaged with their communities. When you don’t know where to turn

call 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Ontario website.

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Contents

Childcare ................................................................................................... 6

Clothing & Household Items ................................................................... 10

Community Centre .................................................................................. 11

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault ....................................................... 13

Education ................................................................................................ 14

Employment & Training .......................................................................... 19

Financial Support .................................................................................... 22

Food ........................................................................................................ 24

Health Care ............................................................................................. 28

Housing & Shelter ................................................................................... 34

Identification ........................................................................................... 39

Immigrant, Newcomer & Refugee Services ............................................ 40

Legal & Advocacy .................................................................................... 41

Libraries ................................................................................................... 43

Mental Health & Addictions .................................................................... 44

Parenting ................................................................................................. 50

Senior Services ........................................................................................ 51

Transportation ........................................................................................ 52

Index ........................................................................................................ 54

Notes ....................................................................................................... 59

Notes ....................................................................................................... 60

Special thanks to our community partners ............................................. 61

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Childcare

St. Thomas Elgin Childcare Services - 1-888-722-1540

https://onehsn.com You may apply to as many child care programs as you like. By applying online, you do not need to contact multiple child care programs. Complete and submit an online application to place your child on the waitlist for any of the child care options. Once your account has been created, you will need to provide information about you and your family on the application form. The information you provide will be used to suggest child care options. The childcare provider will contact you when a space becomes available.

Corner View Child Care - 519-633-7900

11 Park Ave. St. Thomas, ON N5R 4P4; www.ymcawo.ca Mon-Fri 6am-6pm Nonprofit child care and school age programs for children from birth to 12 years Contact centre for an application Eligibility: Child Care Program - Children birth to 6 years School Age Program - Children in Junior Kindergarten to 12 years.

Dutton Co-Operative Child Care Centre - 519-762-2399

3 Lions Rd, Dutton, ON, N0L 1J0; www.duttonchildcare.ca Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Licensed child care programs for infants, toddlers, preschools, kindergarten and school age children. Before and After-School Program locations; Dunwich Dutton Public School & Aldborough Public School Call or apply online at the St Thomas-Elgin Child Care and Waitlist Application Registry Eligibility: Child Care - Children birth to 5 years; School Age Program - Children 6-12 years.

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EarlyON Child and Family Centre - St. Thomas-Elgin - 519-631-9496

Programs are located in St. Thomas and across Elgin County. Check website for program locations and times; www.stthomaselginearlyon.ca EarlyON Child and Family Centres offer free, high-quality drop-in programs for families and children from birth to 6 years old. You can learn and play with your child, meet people, and get advice from early childhood professionals. EarlyON Child and Family Centres are open to all families in Ontario. They are welcoming places that offer a range of services and resources, where you can: • Connect with other families with young children; • Find new baby support and parenting workshops; • Engage in activities such as play and exploration, storytelling, and creative

expression; • Get advice from professionals to support child development, nutrition,

positive guidance strategies and more; • Find out about other family services in your community.

N'Amerind (London) Friendship Centre - 519-672-0131

260 Colborne St, London, ON, N6B 2S6; www.namerind.on.ca Mon-Fri 10am-3pm Promotes the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual well-being of Native Peoples, specifically urban Native Peoples. Culturally relevant programming and the promotion of urban native self governing institutions and family support Call or visit; no referral required Eligibility: People of Aboriginal, First Nations Ancestry and their families.

Milestones Children’s Centre - 519-631-0952

5 Shaw Valley Dr St Thomas, ON N5R 6J9; www.milestonescc.ca Mon 6:30am-Fri 5:30pm Child care program for infants, toddlers and preschool age children Call to register Eligibility: Child Care - Children birth to 4 years. School Age Program - Children 4-12 years.

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Next to Mom - 519-644-0201

231 College St, PO Box 249, Belmont, ON, N0L 1B0; www.nexttomom.ca Mon-Fri 7am-5:30pm Child care program for infants, toddlers and preschool age children; full-day available. Before and after school program and care on days when school is not in session for school-aged children. Licensed by the Ministry of Education in accordance with the Child Care Early Years Act Call or apply online the St Thomas–Elgin Child Care Registry website Elgibility: Child Care - Children birth to 5 years, School Age Program - Children 4-12 years.

Robin's Nest Early Childhood Education Centre - 519-631-1658

8 Hammond St, St Thomas, ON N5P 2B5; www.robinsnestchildcare.ca Mon-Fri 6:30am-5:30pm Child care program for infants, toddlers and preschool age children, before and after school program for children in JK and SK Call or visit Elgibility: Children birth to 5 years.

St Thomas Co-operative Nursery School - 519-631-7899

Centre Street Baptist Church, 28 Southwick St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 3R8 www.stthomaschildrensservices.ca Mon-Fri 9:15am-11:45am Nursery school and preschool program Eligibility: Children 2 to 5 years.

St. Thomas Early Learning Centre - Aylmer Centre

519-631-7018 ext 128

344 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON, N5R 5G5; aylmer@earlylearningcentre.ca Mon-Fri 6:30am-5:30pm Child care program for infants, toddlers, preschool age children and school-age children (6-12 years) Eligibiltiy: Children 12 years of age and younger

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St Thomas Early Learning Centre - Aspen Ave and Continuous Care

Centre - 519-631-7018 ext 126 519-633-9002

1 Aspen Ave, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5G5; www.earlylearningcentre.ca Mon-Fri 6am-8pm extended, weekend, overnight care available Child care program for infants, toddlers, preschool age children and school-age children (6-12 years) Continuous Care Program - Provide extended hours until 8 pm, 6 days a week Eligibility: Child Care - Children birth to 12 years; Continuous Care - Children birth to 12 years for families that are experiencing a temporary emergency, crisis, or stressful situation.

St Thomas Early Learning Centre - Elgin Home Child Care

519-631-7018 ext 110

Dalewood Centre, 575 Burwell Rd, St Thomas, ON, N5P 0B4 www.earlylearningcentre.ca Determined by individual caregivers Licensed home-based child care program offering supervised care for children in approved caregivers homes Call, no referral required Eligibility: Children 3 months to 12 years.

St. Thomas Early Learning Centre - Orchard Park Centre

519-631-7018 ext 124

200 Peachtree Blvd, St Thomas, ON, N5R 4Y8; orchardpark@earlylearningcentre.ca Mon-Fri 6:30am-5:30pm Child care program for infants, toddlers, preschool age children and school-age children (6-12 years) Eligibility: Children 12 years of age and younger

Tiny Tots Co-operative Nursery School of Aldborough - 519-785-2164

Aldborough Public School, 11443 Furnival Rd, Rodney, ON, N0L 2C0 Toddler Program; Wed 9:30am-12noon Preschool Program; Mon, Thu 9:30am-12noon EarlyON Play Groups; Tue, Fri 9:30am-12noon Baby Time; Wed 1pm-3pm; Nursery school licensed by the Ministry of Education toddler and preschool programs, drop-in EarlyON play groups Eligibility: Toddler Program; Children 20-30 months Preschool Program; Children 30 months to 4 years EarlyON Playgroups; Children 0-6 and their caregivers.

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YWCA St Thomas-Elgin - School Aged Childcare - 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3; www.ywcaste.ca Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) School-based programs providing child care in elementary schools before and after school. Programs licensed by the Ministry of Education Program Highlights - Creative arts and crafts, sports, recreation and outdoor play, dramatic play, centre-based play, promotion of good citizenship and school involvement, nutritious snacks Care during professional activity days and holiday camps also available. Register through the City of St.Thomas’s OneHSN online system Eligibility: Children aged 3.5 to 12 years attending area schools needing childcare before and after school.

Clothing & Household Items

Eastwood Baptist Church - Clothing Giveaway - 519-633-4131

400 Wellington St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5T3; www.eastwoodchurch.ca Third Sat of each month 9am-10am Free clothing for those in need Call or visit; no referral required Eligibility: People and families in need.

Mennonite Community Services - Aylmer Thrift Store - 519-765-1356

300 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1K2; www.mcson.org/programs/thrift-store/ Retail Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-4pm Fri 1pm-7pm Sat 10am-4pm Donation Receiving Hours: Tue, Thu, Sat 10am-4pm Gently used clothing and household items at discounted prices. Donations accepted during open hours only. Please visit our website for current hours as they may change due to COVID-19 Pandemic Call or drop in Eligibility: People and families in need.

Salvation Army (The) - St Thomas Community and Family Services -

519-633-4509 Thrift Store - 519-631-3206

105 Edward St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1Y8; www.thesalvationarmystthomas.ca Hours vary Services to help with basic needs. Coats for Kids - Free winter coats for those in need for all ages. Community and Family Services - Emergency assistance provided in the form of clothing, food, life skills training and counselling. Grocery Store Gift Card - May be provided once every 4 months. People in need

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must make an appointment at 105 Edward St, Unit 3 to receive any assistance. Bring proof of household income, identification of all household members, 30 day bank statement(s) for all members of household who have an income and monthly bills. Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) - Monthly credit to help cover electricity bills, based on household income and the number of people living in the home. Other levels of assistance may be available for Indigenous households, homes with medical equipment that have high-energy needs and homes heated through electricity.. Thrift Store - Low cost used clothing and household items, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-3pm Call 519-633-4509 for an appointment or visit OntarioElectricitySupport.ca to apply online Eligibility: People and families in need.

Community Centre

Dutton Dunwich Community Centre - 519-762-2204

1 Scotland St, Dutton, ON, N0L 1J0; www.duttondunwich.on.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Parks and recreation facility for the Municipality of Dutton-Dunwich. Services include fitness classes and sports programs, community events and facility rentals Call or visit.

East Elgin Community Complex - 519-773-5631

531 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 2T9; www.eecc.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm Community recreation facility and arenas owned and operated by the Township of Malahide and the Town of Aylmer; community events community recreation programs, Seniors' Day Out program, skating and shinny programs, pickleball, facility and ice rentals, Cooling Centre during heat advisories.

Ignite Youth Centre - 519-631-8820 745 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON N5P 1E3; igniteyouthcentre.ca/ Service: Mon- Fri 2:45pm-7pm Summer hours Jul 2 - Aug 31 Mon-Fri 12-6pm Resource and drop-in space for youth. Age-appropriate programming in recreation, leadership, arts and culture, education, prevention and awareness, and volunteering. Daily activities that encourage self esteem, leadership, life and social skills, and job readiness Eligibility: Youth ages 12-18.

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Malahide Community Place Community Services Department

519-765-4755

12105 Whittaker Rd, Springfield, ON, N0L 2J0; www.malahide.ca Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Library: Tue 10am-2pm Thu 10am-5:30pm Community recreation and banquet hall for the Township of Malahide. Services include Tae Kwon Do classes, community events and facility rentals. Serves as Malahide Township's emergency shelter. Designated as a cooling centre for residents during summertime heat alerts issued by St Thomas Elgin Public Health. Facilities include: catering kitchen, meeting room, Gary Barat Pavilion, two lighted baseball diamonds and concession facility. Springfield Public Library onsite parking area (horse shelter in northeast corner) green space with playground and walking track; Call or email.

Shedden Keystone Complex - 519-769-2010

35663 Fingal Line, Fingal, ON N0L 1K0 www.southwold.ca/residents/township-facilities/sou... Community recreation facility for the Township of Southwold. Services include community events, facility rentals.

St Thomas Seniors Recreation Centre - 519-633-2850

225 Chestnut St, St Thomas, ON N5R 2B5 www.stthomasseniorscentre.com Community centre for older adults.

West Elgin Recreation Centre - 519-785-0560

135 Queen St, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 www.westelgin.net/en/recreation-and-culture/recrea... Community recreation facility for the Municipality of West Elgin. Services include community events and facility rentals.

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Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

Canadian Centre for Men and Families - 519-914-5702

10 Mondamin Street Unit # 117 St. Thomas Ontario, N5P 2V1 www.menandfamilies.org The Canadian Centre for Men and Families provides a broad range of programs: workshops, mentorship, advice, support and discussion groups, as well as individual, peer and family counselling Visit website for hours and programs Eligibility: Men.

Family and Children's Services of St Thomas and Elgin County

519-631-1492

99 Edward St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1Y8; www.caselgin.on.ca Daily 24 hours emergency service Administration; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act. Provides supports to children and families to maintain the children with family or in other kin placements. Provides children with temporary and long-term care through alternate placement. Supervision, counselling and group support to parents and families. Handles adoptions and adoption disclosure. Transportation to programs and services available for clients if needed. Youth Homelessness Protocol - Participating agency for the Youth Homelessness Protocol, designed to assist youth ages 12-24 in Elgin County who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in finding a safe place to stay and to receive the supports needed to find safe long-term housing Call or referral through community agencies Eligibility: Children and youth 18 years and under and their families.

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General - St Thomas Victim/Witness

Assistance Program - 519-633-1920

4 Wellington St, 2nd Fl, St Thomas, ON, N5R 2P2 www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Information and assistance to support participation in the criminal court process. Services begin once police have laid charges and continue until the court case is over. Case-specific information (court dates, bail conditions). Court preparation, needs assessment, emotional support and crisis intervention. Referrals to community agencies. Vulnerable Victims and Family Fund - Financial and court-based supports to enable victims of crime and families of homicide victims to attend court. Travel arrangements and

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expenses. Language interpretation. Real-time captioning or other equipment for victims with disabilities Referral by police, Crown Attorney, community agency, or self-referral Eligibility: Victims and witnesses of intimate partner abuse/domestic violence, child physical and sexual abuse, sexual assault (including historical sexual assault and human trafficking) Families of homicide victims, families of motor vehicle fatalities and elderly.

Victim Services Elgin - Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario - 519-631-3182

613 Talbot St, Unit 104, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1C6 www.victimserviceselgin.com info@victimserviceselgin.com On-site early intervention and crisis intervention, safety planning, referrals to community services. Enhanced support for vulnerable victims. Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP+) Immediate assistance with emergency expenses related to the incident, including emergency home safety, accommodations, meals, transportation, dependent care costs, counselling, cellular phones, vision care, crime scene clean up and funeral expenses. Additional assistance for victims of human trafficking includes replacement of government documents, storage locker, dental tattoo removal and treatment at a recovery facility. No direct reimbursement for victims. Referral by Police, Fire, EMS, community agency or self referral (email or phone) Eligibility: Victims of crime and tragic circumstance; VQRP+ - victims, immediate family members and witnesses in the direct aftermath of violent crimes.

Education

Contact North - St Thomas - 1-855-451-7516

Employment Services Elgin, 417 Wellington St, Unit 143B, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5J5 www.studyonline.ca Mon-Thu 9am-4pm Education network that provides access to literacy, secondary education, general training, Ontario college and university programs and courses through online (distance) education. Distance education technologies available, such as audioconferencing, videoconferencing, web conferencing, computer workstations and high-speed Internet. Information on programs and courses, assistance with registration and financial aid options, referrals for academic advising and counselling, referrals to community and employment agencies. Monthly scheduled outreach in Strathroy, London, Dorchester and West Lorne Call or email. Eligibility: People wishing to upgrade skills or education.

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Fanshawe College - St Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus - Academic

Upgrading/GED preparation - 519-637-9876

120 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St Thomas, ON, N5R 6A7; www.fanshawec.ca Mon, Wed 6pm-9pm College, employment, and apprenticeship preparation program. Participants can prepare for the GED or complete ACE credits that meet entrance requirements for post-secondary programs. Career exploration, computer and employment skills upgrading is also provided. Register for our weekly assessment session. New participants are assessed to determine a comfortable starting point. Individual goal requirements are reviewed and an individualized training plan is developed that reflects the individuals starting point and goal requirements. Participants can start the very next week. Call to arrange interview Eligibility: Ontario residents 19 years and older, with reading, writing and math skills below Grade 12 of the Ontario Curriculum. Must have facility in English.

Fanshawe College - St Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus - Literacy and

Basic Skills - 519-637-9876

Elgin Mall, 417 Wellington St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5J5; www.fanshawec.ca/cesstt Mon, Wed 6pm-9pm Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 9:30am-12:30pm College, employment, and apprenticeship preparation program. Participants can prepare for the GED or complete ACE credits that meet entrance requirements for post-secondary programs. Career exploration, computer and employment skills upgrading is also provided. Register for our weekly assessment session. New participants are assessed to determine a comfortable starting point. Individual goal requirements are reviewed and an individualized training plan is developed that reflects the individuals starting point and goal requirements. Participants can start the very next week. Call to arrange interview Eligibility: Ontario residents 19 years and older, with reading, writing and math skills below Grade 12 of the Ontario Curriculum. Must have facility in English.

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Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site - Environmental Health -

Certified Food Handler Training - 519-631-9900

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9; www.swpublichealth.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Full day Certified Food Handler courses provided throughout the year and monthly exam challenges. Certification is valid for five years and accepted across Ontario. Topics include: applicable public health laws microbiology; food borne illness, personal hygiene; serving and dispensing food; food protection and preparation receiving and storing food safely cross contamination. Check website for status No referral required. Registration forms are available at the Health Unit or online Eligibility: Recommended to anyone working in the food industry.

St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas-Elgin Social Services - St Thomas-Elgin

Ontario Works - Learning, Earning, and Parenting (LEAP) Program -

519-631-9350 TTY #:519-631-3836

City Hall, 230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P www.stthomas.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Supports to help parents complete high school, enhance their parenting skills, and prepare them to enter the workforce. Learning promotes high school graduation. Requires participants to regularly attend an educational program that leads to a high school diploma. Earning encourages participants to enter school co-op programs and well as part-time or summer employment. Parenting supports parents to become effective caregivers. Provides list of available parenting programs. Participants in the program may be eligible for financial assistance with school activities. Planned parenting activities subsidized child care transportation cost assistance $500 incentive upon graduation. Call or visit website. Application process required Eligibility: Young parents 16-24 years, and their children, receiving Ontario Works.

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Thames Valley District School Board - Balaclava Street Adult Learning

Centre - Adult and Continuing Education - 519-631-0231

20 Balaclava St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 3C2; www.tvdsb.ca Morning, afternoon classes, self study; Adult, alternative and continuing education centre. Secondary school credit programs (Grade 10 to 12) for adults, continuing education for all students. Day and correspondences/self-study courses. Full or part time continuous entry courses, diploma and certificate programs. Educational counselling to registrants. Credit for high school diploma, workplace training, career preparation and prior learning assessments, credit business and technical courses. English as a Second Language (ESL) - General and specialty classes: Literacy ESL - For learners not literate in their first language. Language for the Retail Profession. Language for the Workplace. Citizenship Preparation - Offered to landed immigrants who have been living in Canada at least 2 years (test can be taken at 3 years) Preparation for University/Professional Testing; Assessment required. Call for an appointment Eligibility: Open to adults 18 and over, EI recipients and displaced workers, persons re-entering the work force and resuming their education.

Thames Valley District School Board - GA Wheable Centre - Adult and

Continuing Education - Merrymount - St Thomas

519-631-2321 519-637-1667

Merrymount St Thomas, 579 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1C5; www.wheable@tvdsb.ca Classes: Tue 10am-12:30pm; Thu 9am-12pm Administration: Tue-Thu 9am-3pm; Program designed to assist secondary school-aged students who are either pregnant or new parents continue with their education while learning to cope with their new responsibilities. Babies/infants welcome, but no childcare provided. Call to set up intake interview and assessment. No referral needed Eligibility: Pregnant women or new parents 14-21 years working towards Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

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tykeTALK (Thames Valley Preschool Speech and Language Program)

519-663-0273

www.tyketalk.com; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Focuses on the prevention, early identification and treatment of problems with speech and language and feeding/swallowing. Middlesex-London Health Unit coordinates tykeTALK and contracts with agencies in the Thames Valley region to provide assessment and therapy services at various community locations throughout Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford Counties; Online referrals or call. Referrals accepted from families or community professionals Eligibility: Children from birth age to children eligible to attend senior kindergarten (under 6 years of age).

YWCA St Thomas - Elgin Skills Training and Upgrading - Literacy and

Basic Skills - 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3; www.ywcaste.ca/skills-training-upgrading Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Skills training, including numeracy, digital, communication and interpersonal skills. Helps learners prepare for employment, apprenticeship, secondary-school credit, post-secondary education and greater independence. Childcare and transportation subsidies available. Continuous entry Sep - Jun in Aylmer and St Thomas) Call to register Eligibility: Ontario residents 19 years and older, with reading, writing and math skills below grade 12 of the Ontario curriculum. Must have facility in English.

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Employment & Training

Canada. Employment and Social Development Canada - Job Bank

www.jobbank.gc.ca Website of Canada-wide employment opportunities. Searches can be restricted by regions and keywords. Job descriptions are posted for each vacancy. Job Match feature matches job seekers to opportunities that meet their skills and experience level. Mobile App and Job Alerts available. Visit website. Eligibility: Canadian residents.

Elgin Business Resource Centre - 519-633-7597

300 South Edgeware Rd, St Thomas, ON, N5P 4L1; www.elgincfdc.ca Mon-Thu 8:30am-4:30pm Fri 8:30am-4pm Business counselling and resources for new and existing small businesses. Community-based, nonprofit organization. Business loans, micro loans, business space for rent and conference room rentals. Call or visit website. Eligibility: New and existing businesses.

Employment Services Elgin - Ontario Employment Services

519-631-5470

400 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1B8; www.employmentserviceselgin.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm; West Lorne Office: 160 Main St. West Lorne, ON N0L 2P0; 519-768-0020 Comprehensive employment and job search services. Assessment of skills, interests and experience. Job search strategies, including resume preparation. Information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities. On-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment, information and referral to other employment and community services. Second Career Program - Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers. Services for employers - Help in identifying human resource skills requirements. Matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience. Support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention. Canada-Ontario Job Grant - Financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees. Available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees. Youth Job Connection - Paid pre-employment training, job matching, paid job placements with placement supports for participants and hiring incentives for employers. Mentorship, education and work transitions supports.

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Youth Job Connection Summer - Summer job opportunities and part-time job placements during the year. Call or drop in. For general information on Employment Ontario services call the toll-free Employment Ontario contact centre at 1-800-387-5656 (TTY 1-866-533-6339) or visit www.ontario.ca/employmentontario Eligibility: Self-service information and resources - Anyone, including people with jobs, those who are under-employed, people looking for work, students, apprentices, internationally trained individuals, employers and assisted services.

Fanshawe Career And Employment Services Elgin - Aylmer Community

Services - 226-210-6800 Text - 226-210-0956

20 Talbot Street East, Aylmer, ON N5H 1H4; www.fanshawec.ca/cesayl Mon 9am-4:30pm - Tuesdays 9am-6pm Wed-Friday 9am-4:30pm Comprehensive employment and job search services. Assessment of skills, interests and experience. Job search strategies, including resume preparation, information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities. On-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment. Information and referral to other employment and community services. Second Career Program - Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers. Services for employers - Help in identifying human resource skills requirements. Matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience. Support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention. Youth Job Connection - Ontario residents 15-29 years who are eligible to work in Canada, unemployed, not attending school full time and experiencing multiple barriers to employment. Youth Job Connection Summer - Ontario residents 15-18 years who intend to continue high school or go on to postsecondary education after the job placement. Focus on those facing challenging life circumstances and at risk of experiencing poor transitions between education and work. Services available in English and Low German. Application process: Call. For general information on Employment Ontario services call the toll-free Employment Ontario contact centre at 1-800-387-5656 (TTY 1-866-533-6339) or visit www.ontario.ca/employmentontario Elgibility: Self-service information and resources - Anyone, including people with jobs, those who are under-employed, people looking for work, students, apprentices, internationally trained individuals, employers and Assisted services.

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Leads Employment Services - Ontario Employment Assistance Services

519-439-0352

171 Queens Ave, Suite 410, London, ON, N6A 5J7; www.leadsservices.com Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm; Offers employment services which may include dissemination of labour market information, employment needs assessment, career planning, employment counselling, diagnostic services, job search skills, job finding clubs, job placement services, developing an employment action plan, referral to appropriate interventions, assessments for disability-related accommodations and participant case management and follow-up. Call ahead. Some providers may require a referral before a visit Eligibility: People 15 years and older with disabilities who are unemployed.

Mennonite Community Services - EO Employment Services

226-210-6800

20 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON N5H 1H4;

www.mcson.org/programs/employment-services/

Mon 9am-4:30pm, Tuesdays 9am-6pm, Wed-Friday 9am-4:30pm Comprehensive employment and job search services. Assessment of skills, interests and experience. Job search strategies, including resume preparation. Information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities. On-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment. Information and referral to other employment and community services. Second Career Program - Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers. Services for employers - Help in identifying human resource skills requirements. Matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience. Support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention. Call or drop in. For general information on Employment Ontario services call the toll-free Employment Ontario contact centre at 1-800-387-5656 (TTY 1-866-533-6339) or visit www.ontario.ca/employmentontario Elgibility: Self-service information and resources - Anyone, including people with jobs, those who are under-employed, people looking for work, students, apprentices, internationally trained individuals, employers and Assisted services.

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Service Canada Centre - St Thomas - TTY #:1-800-926-9105

1010 Talbot St, Unit 34, St Thomas, ON, N5P 4N2; www.servicecanada.gc.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm (closed 12noon-12:30pm) Service Canada Toll-Free Line: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Access to Government of Canada services, benefits and documentation. Employment Services - Assistance with career planning and counselling including resume and interview assistance and student and youth employment services. Access to online Job Bank. Employment Insurance - Basic income protection program for employed workers. Financial Benefits - Information and forms for federal pensions and benefits including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Disability Benefits and Survivor Benefits, Social Insurance Number (SIN) application - Personal identification number for access to various Canadian government programs. Services for Business - Services regarding employees and safety, including records of employment; wage subsidies, labour market information, labour standards, occupational health and safety and workplace equity; Call or drop in. Eligibility: Varies by program.

Financial Support

Canada Revenue Agency - GST/HST Credit

TTY - 1-800-665-0354

333 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0L9; www.canada.ca Automated Service; Daily 24 hours Telephone Agents; Mon-Fri 9am-5pm GST/HST tax credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low or modest incomes to offset all or some of the GST/HST tax they pay; Must file an income tax return each year to apply for the benefit Eligibility: People with low or modest incomes.

Family Service Thames Valley - Credit Counselling Thames Valley

519-433-0159 ext 601 TTY - 519-433-0183

125 Woodward Ave, London, ON, N6H 2H1; www.familyservicethamesvalley.com/counselling-services Mon 9am-5pm, Tue-Thu 9am-7pm, Fri 9am-4pm Walk-In Credit Counselling: Thu 1pm-4pm Offers free and confidential one-on-one meetings for credit counselling, debt management, and budgeting. Counsellors help clients understand all options available. Referrals to other community agencies and supports when appropriate. Counselling also offered by telephone or by appointment every other Wednesday at Nokee Kwe Employment Services, 1069 Wellington Rd S. Call or visit our website to request an appointment Eligibility: Adults 18 and older.

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Ontario. Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services - Family

Responsibility Office - 416-326-1817 TTY - 1-866-545-0083

This mailing address is for correspondence only, not for mailing support payments , Family Responsibility Office, Ministry of Community and Social Services, PO Box 200, Stn A, Oshawa, ON, L1H 0C5 www.mcss.gov.on.ca Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Automated Information: Daily 24 hours Administers and enforces court orders for child and spousal support. Enforces domestic contracts, such as separation agreements that are filed with the courts. Ensures compliance with support orders from reciprocating jurisdictions. Note - Main address above is for correspondence only, the following address is for sending cheques and payments. Include case number, first and last name on cheques, and made payable to "Director, Family Responsibility Office" Family Responsibility Office Ministry of Community and Social Services PO Box 2204, Station P Toronto, ON M5S 3E9. The court files a Support Order and Support Deduction Order with the Family Responsibility Office, which then issues a support deduction notice to the known income source(s). Eligibility: Any person who receives or who pays support under a support order made by an Ontario court, or under a domestic contract or paternity agreement that is accompanied by an affidavit in support of filing.

St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas-Elgin Social Services (Ontario Works)

519-631-9350 TTY - 519-631-3836

City Hall, 230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1B2 www.stthomas.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Social assistance program that provides employment assistance and financial support for basic needs. Financial Assistance - Short term income assistance for the cost of shelter and basic needs including food and clothing. Also offers emergency assistance for items of extreme need such as, medical supplies (diabetic supplies, surgical supplies) and medical travel and transportation. Employment Assistance - Supports to help people become and stay employed, such as job search support, basic education, employment placement, skills training, community participation and participation in substance abuse recovery programs. Financial assistance is provided to clients to cover certain related expenses such as bus transportation, child care and clothing. Services provided by local Employment Resource Centres. Call or visit Housing Links for People (HeLP) - Ontario Works recipients can contact case worker. All other applicants, call 519-631-9350, option 3, to speak with intake worker.

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Eligibility: Adults and youth 16-65 years in financial need who meet eligibility requirements Discretionary Benefits - Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program clients. May also be available to people with a low income or those in receipt of Canada.

Food

Caring Cupboard Food Bank - Rodney - 519-785-2026

Calvary United Church, 221 Stinson St, Rodney, ON, N0L 2C0 Call for appointment. Hours vary; Provides a one week supply of groceries and non-perishable food items to eligible low-income people and families once every 60 days. Does not provide diapers or baby supplies. Christmas hampers - Choice of ham or turkey, in addition to items for holiday dinner and non-perishable food items. Toys/gifts for children aged 12 and under. Deliveries on Dec 22 every year. Donations accepted - food donations. New gifts for Christmas Hampers. Cheques or money orders preferred for monetary donations. Tax receipts provided. Call for appointment. Christmas hampers - Register in advance. Eligibility: Must reside in Rodney telephone exchange. Proof of income, address and identification required on each visit. Rent receipt and documentation of all income (including government benefits) and expenses may be required.

Central Community Health Centre - Community Food Programs and

Hospitality Meals - 519-633-7989

359 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1B7; www.centralchc.com Community food programs and hospitality meals for all members of the community. Programs vary based on time of year and community needs. Craving Change - workshop series to help understand why you eat the way you do and change your thinking about food. Held bi-annually. Elgibility: Open to all community members.

Destination Church - Stone Soup Meal - 519-207-2676

668 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1C8; www.destinationchurch.ca Thu 6pm-8pm Weekly soup program. Participants bring one ingredient for the meal which includes multiple courses. Group cooks and eats the meal together. Drop-in. Eligibility: Open to everyone.

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East Elgin Community Assistance Program - Corner Cupboard Food

Bank - 226-342-7716

29 John St N, Aylmer, ON, N5H 2A7: cornercupboardaylmer@gmail.com Sep-Jun: Tue 9am-12noon, 3pm-5pm Jul: Tue 9am-12noon. Closed all of August Provides food items, baby food and formula. Sometimes able to provide emergency assistance with utilities. Donations of food and money always welcome. Call or visit. Bring proof of residency (birth certificate or passport) for everyone in the home. Eligibility: People and families in need. Available once per month.

EAT 2 LEARN - Elgin School Nutrition Network - 519-207-1040

204 First Ave, PO Box 22009, RPO Elmwood Square, St Thomas, ON, N5R 6A1 www.osnp.ca Call ahead, hours vary Community-based supports, resources and funding for schools in Elgin-St Thomas operating student nutrition programs. Breakfast, snack and/or lunch programs are offered at participating elementary and secondary schools at least three times per week with most programs available on every school day. Programs are open to all students at no cost. Call for more information.

Holy Angels Roman Catholic Parish - Outreach Lunch - 519-631-3052

502 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1C2 https://elginrcparishes.ca/outreach-luncheon Fourth Tue each month 11:30am-12:30pm Community lunch Drop in. No referral required Eligibility: People and families in need. People who are lonely.

Port Stanley And Area Community Cupboard - 519-782-3122

Christ Anglican Church, 283 Colborne St, Port Stanley, ON, N5L 1A9 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Port-Stanley-Community-Food-Bank/341260989293360?sk=timeline Food Bank: Third Tue each month 3:30pm-6pm Following Thu each month 10am-12noon Provides food items and a food voucher for Port Stanley Foodland once every 30 days. Call or visit, proof of residency required Elgibility: People and families in need.

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St Paul's United Church - Community Lunch - 519-773-7152

179 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON, N5H 2W4; www.stpaulsunitedchurch.ca Lunch: Tue 11:30am-12:30pm Free community meal. Donations accepted No referral needed. Drop-in.

St Thomas Elgin Food Bank - Cell 519-878-3663 / Office 519-633-5308

24 John St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 4H4; Mailing address P.O. Box 20025, St Thomas, ON N5P 4H4; www.stthomaselginfoodbank.org Mon-Thu 9am-4pm (subject to change due to COVID-19) Food Bank to assist those in need of food, hygiene products, baby food, diapers, formula, and incontinence supplies. We supply our clients with at least 3 to 5 day supply of food. Call or text cell phone listed to order food hamper. WALK-UPS and all individuals in need are WELCOME! Eligibility: Must reside in areas of Elgin County. Proof of income, address, and identification required for all household members. Rent receipt and documentation of all income (including government benefits) and expenses required.

Southwestern Public Health Food and Nutrition - 519-631-9900

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9; www.swpublichealth.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Information and community resources for people and families to access food when in need (e.g. food bank locations, low cost meals, community meals, cooking programs and a list of community dietitians). Website contains information on services, support and educational resources to assist with healthy food choices. Call, email or visit the website Eligibility: Varies per program.

The Grace Cafe - St Thomas - Street Mission and Soup Kitchen

519-860-2513

323 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1B5; www.thegracecafe.ca Mon-Sat 8am-1pm Registered charity street mission and soup kitchen that provides free coffee, soup and lunch meals to anyone in the community. Also supplies free clothing as available. Drop-in Eligibility: People in need.

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Victorian Order of Nurses - Middlesex-Elgin - Elgin-St Thomas Office -

Community Support Services - Meals On Wheels St Thomas

519-637-6408 East Elgin - 519-765-2999

175 S Edgeware Rd, St Thomas, ON, N5P 4C4; www.vonme.ca Administration: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Meal Delivery: Mon-Fri between 11:30am-12:30pm Hot or frozen meals delivered by volunteers on weekdays. Delivery includes security check and quick visit. Grocery delivery also available. Frozen Meal Service - Frozen meal packages are delivered twice a month. Clients choose from a menu or can choose standard packages. Special diet types available. Soup/dessert packages also available. Call, pre-registration required Eligibility: Older adults and adults with disabilities.

West Elgin Community Health Centre Community Food Programs

519-768-1715

153 Main St, West Lorne, ON, N0L 2P0 www.wechc.on.ca/programs-and-services/dietitian-services Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Community food programs for all members of the community. Programs vary based on time of year and community needs; Learn How to Garden Workshop - learn how grow vegetables. Garden plots available; Good Food Box - bulk buying program offering monthly baskets of healthy, affordable produce to support more fruit and vegetables in the diet; Cooking Kids - Monthly cooking program for children aged 7-9 years. A make-and-take meal to share with family; At the Kitchen Table - Monthly program for youth aged 10-12 years where they share a homemade meal and discuss various topics. Better Bites - Seasonal food demonstration, taste test and discussion by Diabetes team; Craving Change - Small group program for adults designed to help understand the reasons why we eat and provide strategies for improving problematic eating behaviors Offered 1-2 times per year. Adult Baking Club - Teaches young adults how to bake. Supported by Coordinator of Community Support Service and Program Assistant. Kitchen Kids - Monthly cooking program for parents with children ages 2 1/2 to 6 years. Children prepare and try food while parents learn tips for including children in the kitchen; Krazy Kitchen - Monthly program for adults to cook, taste and bring home samples to share. Children's programming available Men’s Cooking - Cooking lessons and health education program for men and an opportunity to share recipes; Call to register. Eligibility: Varies per program.

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West Elgin Daffodil Auxiliary - Welfare - 519-762-5757

185 C Currie Rd, Dutton, ON, N0L 1J0; wedaffodilauxiliarywelfare@gmail.com No regular hours (volunteer run) Phone messages checked on regular basis Food items available once a month. Arrangements for pick-up made on a case-per-case basis. Call and leave message. No referral required Eligibility: Residents of Dutton, West Lorne and Wallacetown. Bring proof of residency and income.

Health Care

Canadian Cancer Society - Ontario Division - Smokers' Helpline

TTY #: iQuit to 123456

55 St Clair Ave W, Suite 500, Toronto, ON, M4V 2Y7; www.smokershelpline.ca Free confidential information, advice, and support about quitting smoking through telephone, online and text services. Service provided to people thinking about quitting, have already quit and need support to remain smoke-free, as well as family and friends wanting to help a smoker quit. Online services include an interactive web-based quit program and online support group. Text messaging service. No referral required. Call or visit website Eligibility: Smokers who want to quit, enjoy smoking and do not want to quit, or have stopped smoking and need support, as well as friends and family members.

Children's Hospital London Health Sciences Centre - Children's

Emergency Department Virtual Emergency Clinic - 519-685-8735

Crisis Call 911 in emergencies; www.lhsc.on.ca Daily 5pm-9pm Emergency virtual care for children. Parents and children speak to a doctor by video to discuss the child's condition together and determine next steps No referral required Eligibility: Children 18 years and younger who need medical care for serious illnesses and injuries.

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Elgin Audiology Consultants - Aylmer - 519-773-3838

St. Thomas 519-637-5925 West Lorne - 1-888-815-2306

www.elginaudiology.com Aylmer - Open Tue and Thu; 17 King St, Suite 5, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1Z9 St. Thomas - Open M-F 9am-5pm Tues 9am-7pm 66 West Ave St Thomas, ON N5R 5H7; West Lorne - Open by appointment; Heritage Homes Community Hub 146 Munroe St, West Lorne, ON N0L 2P0. Hearing health care with registered audiologists. Hearing and audiological assessments (tests), hearing aid prescriptions, hearing aid dispensing sales, services/repairs. Central auditory processing assessments, industrial hearing assessments (tests). Earplugs, batteries, swim plugs. Ear wax removal and management, balance and dizziness testing. Ministry of Children and Youth's Infant Hearing Program. Provider Authorized Assistive Devices Program (ADP) vendor. Appointment required Eligibility: People with hearing difficulties.

Four Counties Health Services - 519-693-4441

General inquiries 519-693-4441 ext 2414

1824 Concession Dr, Newbury, ON, N0L 1Z0; www.mhalliance.on.ca Daily 24 hours 12-bed acute care hospital with emergency department. Medical, day surgery, therapy and ambulatory care services. Case managers from the South West Local Health Integration Network available on site. Part of the Middlesex Hospital Alliance (in partnership with Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital) Walk in for emergency department. Medical referral and appointment required for most other services. Eligibility: Varies depending on the program or service.

Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada - 416-922-6065

250 Dundas St W, Suite 500, Toronto, ON, M5T 2Z5; www.mssociety.ca Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Information, education, support, advocacy and referrals to individuals living with MS and their caregivers/families. Provides information and support to health professionals, employers, agencies and students. Various social activities, drop-in activities and educational programs. Encourages and supports research. Funding assistance with medical equipment. No referral required, call Eligibility: People with multiple sclerosis and their families, friends and/or caregivers.No restrictions for membership.

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Ontario. Ministry of Health - Telehealth Ontario

TTY #:1-866-797-0007Crisis #: Call 911 in emergencies

www.ontario.ca Daily 24 hours Free, confidential access to registered nurses trained to help people decide about appropriate options for care. Provides health advice or general health information on topics including; breastfeeding, medications and drug interactions, depression, suicide and other mental health concerns, teen health and issues, food and healthy living, illnesses and injuries that need medical care or are consistent. Does not provide a diagnosis or provide medication nor does it replace the need for regular medical check-ups. Specialized support for dementia caregivers; Nurses will connect family caregivers of people with dementia to support, advice, and referral, particularly when other services are closed. Dietitian Services; Call to speak with a dietitian for advice and information on nutrition and healthy eating. No referral required, call Eligibility: Residents of Ontario. Health insurance number not required.

Regional HIV/AIDS Connection - 519-434-1601

186 King St, Suite 30, London, ON, N6A 1C7; www.hivaidsconnection.ca Mon-Fri 9am-5pm evenings by appointment Practical support, counselling services and programming for people living with and affected by issues related to HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C. Education about safer sex and ways to prevent getting or giving HIV. Stigma and discrimination with respect to living with HIV as well as homosexuality. Testing for HIV and Hepatitis C. Issues related to telling (disclosing) HIV status. Call or drop-in for information or an interview Eligibility: People living with or affected by HIV and/or AIDS, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, 2 spirit youth. General public.

Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site - 519-631-9900

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9; www.swpublichealth.ca See schedule on website; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Health agency that addresses public health issues and promotes healthy living. Services include but are not limited to; immunization and screening for communicable diseases, family and child health, breastfeeding and infant care support dental health, sexual health injury prevention, environmental health, physical activity, public health standards enforcement research and population-based health research ,food safety. Call or visit. No referral required. Eligibility: Appointments or registration for certain programs or classes.

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SWPH - St. Thomas Site - Environmental Health - Safe Water

519-631-9900

Monitors community drinking water systems, public beaches, public pools and hot tubs and provides information on water quality testing and potential health effects. Recreational water and public swimming pools and spas - Conducts weekly beach water samples for levels of bacterial contamination during July and August. Inspects public swimming pools and public spas to ensure they meet requirements. Small Drinking Water Systems - Public Health Inspectors conduct risk assessments of identified small drinking water systems that service public facilities. Private Well-Water Testing - Individuals can pick-up water testing kits and return for bacteriological lab analysis. Eligibility: Varies depending on service.

SWPH - St. Thomas Site - Healthy Growth and Development - Prenatal

Classes - 519-631-9900

Online and in-person prenatal classes in Aylmer, St Thomas and Woodstock. Information on breastfeeding, physical and emotional changes after the birth, parenting and baby care, labour and birth. See website for specific class information. Please note that in-person classes are not available at this time due to COVID-19, online classes are still available. Call to register and receive online access code Eligibility: Individuals who are pregnant. Support people welcome.

SWPH - St Thomas Site - 519-631-9900 Oral Health Services

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9; www.swpublichealth.ca See schedule on website; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Preventative oral health services (dental cleanings, flouride varnish) provided on-site for children and youth 17 years old and under. Healthy Smiles Ontario - Allows eligible children and youth 17 years old and under receive check-ups, cleanings, fillings (for cavity), x-rays, tooth extractions and urgent dental care at a dentist of their choice. Will help eligible families apply for the program. Call, visits by appointment only Eligibility: Children and youth 17 years and under. Children and youth automatically eligible if they or their family receive Ontario Works, Temporary Care Assistance, Ontario Disability Support Program, or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities.

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SWPH - St Thomas Site - Vaccine Preventable Diseases - Immunization

Services - 519-631-9900

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9 www.swpublichealth.ca By appointment only Immunization clinic. Vaccination against common infectious diseases. General information and counselling to discuss vaccines. Immunization records are reviewed to determine vaccination needs, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (lockjaw) polio, haemophilus influenza type B measles, mumps, rubella, pneumococcal, meningococcal, varicella (chickenpox) hepatits B, human papillomavirus (HPV) influenza (seasonal). Appointment required for St Thomas and Aylmer clinics.

SWPH - St Thomas Site - Healthy Growth and Development -

Breastfeeding Support - 519-631-9900 ext 1400

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9 www.swpublichealth.ca By Phone: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Walk-In: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm Breastfeeding support and assistance from a Public Heath Nurse. Phone support, office visit, or home visit available Call, no referral required Eligibility: Pregnant and breastfeeding parents.

St Thomas Hearing Clinic - 519-633-1624

120 Centre St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 2Z9; www.stthomashearingclinic.com Mon-Thu 9am-5pm Fri 9am-3pm evenings and house call appointments available on request. Hearing health care with registered audiologists. Hearing testing for adults and children, hearing aid prescriptions, hearing aid dispensing sales, services/repairs. Musician, noise protection and swim earplugs. Central auditory process testing, ear wax removal and management. Counselling for hearing loss. Tinnitus Management and aural rehabilitation programs. Evening services and home visits available on request. Authorized Assistive Devices Program (ADP) vendor. Call, no referral required Eligibility: People with hearing difficulties.

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St Thomas Elgin General Hospital - COVID-19 Assessment Centre

519-631-2030 ext 6210

189 Elm St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5C4; https://www.stegh.on.ca Daily 8am-6pm Assessment centre aims to provide testing, education, medical guidance, and triage; Book an appointment by phone or email Eligibility: People experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital - 519-842-3611

167 Rolph St, Tillsonburg, ON, N4G 3Y9; www.tillsonburghospital.on.ca Daily 24 hours Administration: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm 45-bed acute and continuing care hospital with emergency department. Medical, surgery, therapy and ambulatory care services. Case managers from the South West Local Health Integration Network - Home and Community Care available on site; Walk in for emergency department. Medical referral required for most other services Eligibility: Varies depending on the program or service.

Voyago - Voyageur Medical Transportation - 519-455-4579

573 Admiral Court, London, ON, N5V 4L3; www.voyagohealth.ca Daily 24 Hours Non-emergency patient transfer service. Services include: Wheelchair accessibility transfer for individuals or groups Hospital shuttle programs. Stretcher service for individuals or groups advanced monitor stretcher service Call to book.

Western University - Schulich Medicine and Dentistry - Dental Clinic

Main Adult Clinic: 519-661-3326 Children's Clinic - 519-661-3329

Dental Emergency Clinic - 519-661-3331

Dental Sciences Building, 1003, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1 www.schulich.uwo.ca/dentistry/ Administration: Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm Adult and Emergency Clinics: Mon-Fri 9am-12noon, 2pm-5pm (by appointment only. Call to confirm Fri hours) Children's Clinic: Mon-Thu 9am-12noon, 2pm-5pm (by appointment only) General dental treatment and a teaching facility for dental students who are supervised by faculty members Call to arrange a screening appointment (clinical evaluation to determine eligibility for treatment) or referral from private dentist. Waiting period for screening Eligibility: Adults in need of general dental treatment.

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Housing & Shelter

Eastwood Housing Corporation - Pinetree Gardens for Seniors

519-633-5375

150 First Ave, St Thomas, ON, N5P 4G6; www.eastwoodhousing.ca Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm 13 non-profit, independent living apartments for older adults. Non-smoking property, owned and operated by the Eastwood Fellowship Baptist Church Apply in-person or on website Eligibility: Adults 60 years and older.

Elgin County Youth For Christ/Youth Unlimited - 519-633-6538

21 Edward St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1Y3; www.yfcelgincounty.com Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Youth Homelessness Protocol - Participating agency for the Youth Homelessness Protocol, designed to assist youth ages 16-24 in Elgin County who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in finding a safe place to stay and to receive the supports needed to find safe long-term housing. Call 211 to access the shelter. Call, email, drop-in, no referral required Elgibility: Youth ages 16-24.

Inn Out of the Cold St Thomas-Elgin

Office - 519-933-9895 / Shelter 519-637-9898

For exact hours and location of operation please visit www.innoutofthecoldelgin.com or call 519-637-9898 Emergency shelter and drop-in centre providing supports for people experiencing homelessness. Open 7 days a week, year-long. Overnight accommodation, clothing, personal care items, shower, laundry, limited storage, meals, snacks and access to phone, computers and staff support is provided to each guest. Access to transportation and medication is also provided as needed. Beyond meeting these basic needs, our program is focusing on reducing barriers that prevent our guests from obtaining stable housing. As we work to assist guests with replacing lost identification, applying for financial assistance, housing applications and connecting to community services, guests are a step closer to finding a place of their own. Eligibility: Adults 16 years and older.

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Landlord and Tenant Board - Southwestern Regional Office

TTY #: Call the Bell Relay Service: 1-800-855-0511

150 Dufferin Ave, Suite 400, London, ON, N6A 5N6; www.ltb.gov.on.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm Independent body established to resolve disputes between residential landlords and tenants through mediation or adjudication. Provides information concerning tenant and landlord rights and obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Processes applications to determine and regulate justified rent increases and jurisdiction for both landlords and tenants. Rent Control Guidelines - Landlords are allowed to raise rents without seeking government approval up to the approved guidelines. Contact Board for current percent or visit the website Formerly the Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal. Call. Applications and supporting documents can be filed in person at any Service Ontario Centre location Eligibility: Residential landlords and tenants.

New Beginnings Residence - 519-631-4937

38 Chester St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 1V2 Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm 36-bed adult assisted living home. Personal services include meals, bathing assistance, daily laundry, hair care Call, no referral required Eligibility: Adults with mental illness who are relatively stable or in remission. Acquired brain injury needing assistance with daily living. Dual diagnosis or mild developmental delay. Recovering from addictions. Suffering from personal or family breakdown.

Salvation Army - London - Ontario Division - Centre of Hope

519-661-0343

London Centre of Hope, 281 Wellington St, London, ON, N6B 2L4 www.centreofhope.ca Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm Services to help with basic needs including shelter, housing assistance and material aid Call or drop-in. Identification for each family member (e.g. drug card, birth certificate, etc.), proof of income (e.g. Ontario Works, pay stubs, etc.) and proof of residence required for material aid and Christmas hampers. Eligibility: People and families in need.

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St Thomas-Elgin Second Stage Housing – 519-637-2288

15 Golding Place , St Thomas, ON, N5R 6B6; www.secondstagehousing.net Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm 12-unit apartment complex with furnished units that provide transitional, secure, and affordable housing and support services to women and their children who have left an abusive relationship. Average length of stay is one year. Assistance is provided in seeking housing when moving on from the program. On-site programs include one-on-one counselling, advocacy, referrals, safety planning, recreation and social development groups and liaison with schools. Call, no referral required Elgibility: Women who have been or are being abused and their children.

St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas - Elgin Social Services - Housing

Services 519-631-9350 TTY - 519-631-3836

City Hall, 230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1B2 www.stthomas.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Develops and administers assistance programs related to home ownership, private rental housing, affordable housing, social housing, transitional housing, supportive housing and homeless shelters. Manages all city-owned housing All housing program applications must go through Social Services Intake Eligibility: Varies by program Housing Assistance Program - Administers housing assistance programs, including assistance with utility costs, Programs include: Housing Links for People (HeLP) Program. Assistance with rental arrears, utility arrears, temp orary housing, assistance with moving costs, emergency assistance with daily living costs and other forms of assistance to prevent homelessness Housing Allowance Program - subsidies to tenants with private landlords to reduce tenant rent to affordable levels. Home Repair Program - financial assistance to low-income homeowners facing necessary repairs. Affordable Homeownership Program - financial assistance with down payment for first time home buyers. Low Income Energy Assistance Program - assistance with hydro arrears in St Thomas. Union Gas Emergency Assistance Program - Interest-free loan/grant program. People may be eligible if utilities, including gas, water or electricity, are going to be disconnected or already have been disconnected. Email or call to make an appointment Eligibility: Varies by program.

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The Family Central Apartments - 519-619-5910

62 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1H4; http://familycentralapartments.com/ Administration: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Affordable apartments for program participants who want assistance to attain goals around employment, education and life skills. Support provided through peer mentor neighbours and staff. Neighbours provide support and encouragement on an informal basis. Staff provide formal supports on a weekly basis through individual and group support meetings and activities. Staff not available for overnight support. Apply through website Eligibility: Adults 18 years and older who have ties to Aylmer and who have low-income and want to increase standard of living and quality of life.

Women's Place Emergency Shelter - 519-633-0155

45 Princess Ave, St Thomas, ON, N5R 3V7; www.vawsec.on.ca/emergency-shelter Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Safe secure shelter for women who have been abused and their children. Temporary accommodation with basic necessities. Crisis support provided by professional counsellors. Drop-in counselling available anytime. Legal consult available with lawyers by appointment. Emergency transportation to safety available from anywhere in St Thomas and Elgin County. Call or drop-in Elgibility: Women, 16 years and older, who have experienced abuse and their children, family and friends. Residency in shelter is not required and being an existing client of agency services not required.

YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Harmony House Transitional home for young

women 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-youth/; Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Youth Homelessness Protocol - Participating agency for the Youth Homelessness Protocol, designed to assist youth ages 16-24 in Elgin County who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in finding a safe place to stay and to receive the supports needed to find safe long-term housing. Call or email Eligibility: Female youth 16-24 years.

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YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Horizon House Transitional home for young

women 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-adults/; Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Home for female youth ages 18-24 who are in need of affordable and supportive housing. Suited for youth who are enrolled in school and/or employed and working towards independence. Call to make an appointment Elgibility: Female youth 18-24 years.

YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Women’s Residence - 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-adults/; Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Housing for women ages 16 years and older within a 21-bed facility Call to make an appointment Elgibility: Women 16 and older in need of short-term or long-term housing.

YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Fairwinds Transitional Home for young men 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-youth/ Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Housing support: daily 24 hours Home for male youth ages 16-24 who are in need of affordable and supportive housing Suited for youth who are enrolled in school and/or employed and working towards independence. Call to book intake appointment Elgibility: Male youth 16-24 years.

YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Unity House Transitional Home for young

men - 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-youth/ Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Home for male youth who are in need of affordable and supportive housing. Suited for youth who are enrolled in school and/or employed, working towards independence and striving to move forward in their lives. Call to make an intake appointment Eligibility: Male youth 18-24 years.

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YWCA St. Thomas Elgin – Second Story Transitional Home for Men

519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3 www.ywcaste.ca/supportive-housing-for-adults/ Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Home for male who are in need of affordable and supportive housing. Call to make an intake appointment Elgibility: Men age 24 and older in need of short-term or long-term housing.

Identification

Ontario. Ministry of Transportation - Enforcement and Field Services

London, Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford

519-873-4100 TTY - 1-866-471-8929

Western Regional Office, 659 Exeter Rd, London, ON, N6E 1L3 www.mto.gov.on.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm Responsible for drivers and vehicles services, driver improvement, commercial vehicle inspection, and enforces the statutes and regulations related to the operation of commercial motor vehicles. Applications for Accessible Parking Permits (including temporary, interim permits) available through Service Ontario centres. Senior Driver Renewal Program - Senior drivers, 80 years and over, every two years are required to take a vision test, undergo a driver record review, attend a short group education session, and complete two non-computerized in-class screening assignments. Some may be required to take a road test to have their in-car skills assessed. Call 1-800-396-4233 for an appointment. Driver and Vehicle Licence Issuing - Routine driver and vehicle licensing products and services, such as driver licence and vehicle sticker renewals, available in-person at any Service Ontario location. Driver Examination Centres (Operated by DriveTest) - Driver examination tests for operation of motor vehicles, motorcycles, and driver education instructors. Road test booking also available online London Driver Examination Centre 4380 Wellington Rd S London, ON N6E 2Z6 1-888-570-6110; 519-652-0045 (fax) Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm Tillsonburg Driver Examination Centre Tillson Avenue Mall 107 Concession St E Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4W4 1-888-570-6110; 519-688-2631 (fax) Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm Woodstock Driver Examination Centre 476 Peel St Woodstock, ON N4S 1K1 1-888-570-6110; 519-539-8511 (fax) Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm Call for appointment.

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ServiceOntario - London Counters - TTY #:1-800-268-7095

London, ON; www.serviceontario.ca Call for details, hours and locations vary Access to Government of Ontario services and documentation at various counter and kiosk locations. Services available at each location vary. Counters are equipped to deal with one or more of the following transactions; health card registration and renewal, driver and vehicle licensing, business registration, fishing and hunting licenses, address change, newborn registration, service Ontario government publications. Call or visit.

ServiceOntario - West Elgin Counter General Inquiry - 519-785-0560 22413 Hoskins Line, West Elgin, ON, N0L 2C0; www.serviceontario.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Access to Government of Ontario services and documentation. Services at this location: birth, marriage and death certificates, health card registration, Ontario photo card, driver and vehicle licensing, Ontario government publications. Call or visit.

Immigrant, Newcomer & Refugee Services

Mennonite Community Services - Settlement Services - 519-765-3020

20 Talbot St. E, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1H4; www.mcson.org Tue, Wed, Fri (10am-12:30pm and 1pm-5pm) and Thurs (10am-12:30pm and 1pm-8pm) Assessment, information, and referral services to newcomers. Assists newcomers to settle in Elgin County. Interpretation services to help newcomers understand and access community services. Orientation to life in Canada. Call or drop in Eligibility: Newcomers to Canada.

Settlement.Org

www.settlement.org; Website provides newcomers with information and resources to settle in Ontario. Topics include health, employment, immigration and citizenship, housing, education, community, daily life, and legal services. Searchable regional directory of settlement agencies and services. Forum for answering questions and sharing experience.

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YWCA St Thomas-Elgin - Settlement Services for Newcomers to

Canada 519-631-9800

16 Mary St W, St Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3; www.ywcaste.ca/services-for-newcomers-to-canada/; Mon-Fri 9-5 (closed 12-1pm) Information on permanent residency, citizenship, sponsorship, work and visitor permits, government programs, and community services. Assistance with accessing information on health cards, driver's licenses, social insurance

numbers, housing, banking, employment, and social services. Additional Services: orientation to the local area and to Canadian customs and traditions, referrals to cultural, educational, recreational, legal, and other support services in the community, interpretation services can be provided in some languages Call, referrals from agencies also welcome. Eligibility: Newcomers to Canada or those looking for information about settlement or language classes.

Legal & Advocacy

Elder Abuse Elgin - 519-280-3245

elderabuseelgin@gmail.com; Hours vary Addresses elder abuse through education, advocacy and liaison with community resources. Multidisciplinary case consultation. Training and resources for professionals and the general public available upon request. Assistance with referrals. Call, no referral required Eligibility: Older adults.

Elgin-Oxford Legal Clinic – 519-633-2638

98 Centre St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 2Z7; www.eolc.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Legal advice and representation in several areas of law including:

• Ontario Works/Ontario Disability Support Program

• Landlord and Tenant Matters - Criminal Injuries Compensation

• Canada Pension Plan disability - Employment Law (excluding WSIB) Indigenous Justice Program - An Indigenous Justice Coordinator (IJC) is on staff to connect the Indigenous communities in Oxford, Elgin, London-Middlesex, Huron, Perth, Munsee-Delaware First Nation, Chippeawa of the Thames First Nation and Oneida of the Thames First Nation with assistance to navigate the legal system. The IJC can provide cultural awareness training in the community.

Elgibility: People who cannot afford a lawyer regarding income or shelter issues

and cannot obtain Legal Aid.

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John Howard Society of London and District - 519-438-4168

601 Queens Ave, London, ON, N6B 1Y9; www.johnhoward.on.ca Mon-Thu 8:30am-4:30pm Fri 8:30am-3pm Closed Mon-Fri 12noon-1pm Not-for-profit, charitable organization providing a broad range of evidence-based and outcome-driven community services in London and District. Organization has a strong history of helping individuals and families who are at risk of, or who have come into conflict with the law. Provides services on a continuum from preventing involvement with the law, to arrest and detention, to successful reintegration back into the community. The John Howard Society of London and District provides; information, advocacy and referrals, vouchers for clothing and household items, walk-in crisis assistance, one-on-one and family counselling available. Call or visit Eligibility: Persons involved in the criminal justice system, persons at risk of becoming involved in the justice system, their families.

Legal Aid Ontario - St Thomas Family Duty Counsel

519-631-4810 TTY 1-866-641-8867

St Thomas Court House, 1702, 4 Wellington St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 2P2 www.legalaid.on.ca; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Access to legal services for people with low income Issues legal aid certificates under the provisions of the Legal Aid Act to enable persons who qualify to engage the services of a lawyer of their choice. Addresses criminal law, family law and immigration. Duty Counsel - Services provided in family court, child welfare cases. Call Client Services Centre. Income and financial information required for application. Legal aid will accept collect calls. Eligibility: People who cannot afford their own solicitor. Based on income and area of law.

Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General - Middlesex County - Office

of the Crown Attorney - 519-660-3003 After Hours - 226-345-5777

Courthouse, 80 Dundas St, Ground Flr, Unit B, London, ON, N6A 6A2 Call ahead hours vary Prosecutes criminal code charges Listing of www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca

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Libraries

Elgin County Public Libraries - 519-631-1460

County office: 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON, N5R 5V1 Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm www.elgincounty.ca/library Public libraries at various locations offering computer access to the Internet, photocopier, fax machine and scanners, programs for children, teens and adults, summer reading club, online book clubs, local history and genealogy resources, low vision reading aids and formats interlibrary loan service, eBooks, eAudiobooks, CD's and DVD's available, free wireless downloadable magazines, streaming movies, databases for research, home access to online services and collections; Identification showing current address and photo for application of library card. Eligibility: Library card required for loan of materials.

Aylmer Old Town Hall Public Library - 519-773-2439

38 John Street South Aylmer ON N5H 2C2; Tue, Thur: 9:30am-6pm; Fri, Sat: 9:30am -1:30pm.

Belmont Library - 519-644-1560

14134 Belmont Rd, Belmont, ON, N0L 1B0; Mon 1pm-7:30pm; Tue 3pm-7:30pm, Fri 9:30am-2pm.

Fred Bodsworth Public Library - 519-874-4754

21 Pitt St Port Burwell, ON N0J 1T0; Mon 2pm-5pm; Tue 3pm-6pm; Thur 11am-2pm.

John Kenneth Galbraith Library - Dutton - 519-762-2780

236 Shackleton St, Dutton, ON, N0L 1J0; Mon 10am-6pm; Thu 12pm-6pm Fri 10am-5pm.

Port Stanley Library - 519-782-4241

302 Bridge St Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3; Mon, Tue 10am-5pm; Thurs 2pm-7pm.

Rodney Library - 519-785-2100

207 Furnival Rd, Rodney, ON, N0L 2C0; Tues 12pm-6pm; Fri 12-5pm.

Southwold Township Library, Shedden - 519-764-2081

35921 Talbot Line Shedden, ON N0L 2E0; Tue 2pm-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm.

Springfield Library - 519-765-4515

Malahide Community Place, 12105 Whittaker Rd, Springfield, ON, N0L 2J0 Tue 10am-2pm; Thu 10am-5:30pm.

West Lorne Library - 519-768-1150

160A Main St, West Lorne, ON, N0L 2P0; Tue 10am-6pm; Fri 2pm-5pm.

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St. Thomas Public Library - 519-631-6050

153 Curtis St St Thomas, ON N5P 3Z7; www.stthomaspubliclibrary.ca/ Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm; Sat 10am-5pm Public library offering computer access to the Internet, photocopier, fax machine and scanners, programs for children, teens and adults, summer reading club, online book clubs, local history and genealogy resources, low vision reading aids and formats interlibrary loan service, eBooks, eAudiobooks, CD's and DVD's available, free wireless downloadable magazines, streaming movies, databases for research, home access to online services and collections Identification showing current address and photo for application of library card. Eligibility: library card required for loan of materials.

Mental Health & Addictions

Addiction Services of Thames Valley - Program - 519-673-3242 ext 281

Crisis #: Reach Out www.reachout247.ca

1-866-933-2023 Call or text: 519-433-2023

Community Opioid Addiction

Main Office: 200 Queens Ave, Suite 260, London, ON, N6A 1J3 www.adstv.on.ca; By appointment; Offers direct client services and community education for people with opioid addictions. Assessment and screening required for entry into the treatment program. Treatment planning and community-based outpatient treatment for people with an opioid abuse problem. Offers treatment model based on cognitive-behavioural, stages of change, harm reduction, multidisciplinary and solution-focused. Case management, outpatient counselling and aftercare to facilitate recovery. Treatment sessions assist in developing skills to manage substance abuse and related problems, and maintain and enhance treatment goals. Activities such as relapse prevention, guided self-change, follow-up and aftercare are included as well as programming to support/educate family; Assessment - Telephone screening and intake process, attend walk-in intake at any site call or e-mail. Eligibility: Adults and youth 12 years of age and older who are affected by opioid concerns, abuse and dependence. Clients with minor mental illness are accepted. Must be willing to enter program.

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Addiction Services of Thames Valley - West Lorne Office (WECHC) -

519-673-3242

Crisis #: Reach Out www.reachout247.ca

1-866-933-2023 Call or text: 519-433-2023

Internet, Gaming Disorders and Problem Gambling Services Intake Line: ext 234 Substance Abuse: ext 222 West Elgin Community Health Centre (WECHC), 153 Main St, West Lorne, ON, N6A 1J3; www.adstv.on.ca; By appointment only; Assess people with substance abuse, internet, gaming and gambling concerns using standardized assessment tools. Develop treatment plans, including referrals to other organizations where appropriate. Phone consultations are available by contacting the Internet, Gaming Disorders and Problem Gambling Services intake line Call for an appointment. For phone consultations contact the Internet, Gaming Disorders and Problem Gambling Services intake line at ext 234. Eligibility: Adults and youth 12 years of age and older who are affected by substance use, abuse and dependence or internet, gaming and gambling concerns. Clients with minor mental illness are accepted.

Al-Anon Family Group – London - Crisis #:24 Hour Answering Service

519-457-9393 (leave a message)

District 6, PO Box 944, Stn B, London, ON, N6A 5K1 www.london-on-al-anon.org Hours irregular, check website for details Support meetings for family and friends of problem drinkers. Visit website for meeting information Eligibility: Family and friends of problem drinkers.

Alcoholics Anonymous - St Thomas and Area AA - 519-633-0430

Crisis #: Helpline - 519-633-0430 (24-hour); www.aastthomasarea.org Meeting hours vary, visit website for times. Meetings for people dealing with alcoholism. Meetings following the twelve steps to recovery to assist alcoholics to attain and maintain sobriety. Eligibility: People who want to stop drinking alcohol.

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Canadian Mental Health Association - Middlesex Branch - London - Huron St Site - Friendly Callers - Senior Support Program 519-434-9191 ext 2223 648 Huron St, London, ON, N5Y 4J8 ; www.cmhamiddlesex.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-7:30pm Volunteers provide weekly check-in phone calls and assist with access to community and social supports. Intake into the program Mon-Fri 8:30am-7:30pm, phone call service available Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm. Call, accepts self referrals and health care provider and social service provider referrals Eligibility: Older adults.

Community Living Elgin - 519-631-9222

7 Morrison Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 4S5; www.communitylivingelgin.com Administration: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Community-based services for people with an intellectual disability including accommodation, day program, respite care, planning and family supports. Residential Programs - Supported living arrangements to adults at various apartment buildings and home settings. Respite Programs Associate Family Relief - Out of home (usually) respite for children under the age of 21 years who have an intellectual disability respite funds and services may be available to families who are caring for a child at home with the following criteria: family and child reside in Elgin County and the child is under the age of 18, child has a diagnosis or professional assessment to indicate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a social, emotional, behavioural or psychiatric need or a physical or developmental disability respite program is for children who have been assessed as medically fragile through the Local Health Integration Network Community Access Program - Adult day program. Promotes growth through activities such as cooking, art, horticulture, crafts, education and computer skills; Residential and Day Supports - Apply through Developmental Services Ontario. Eligibility: People with an intellectual disability and their families.

ConnexOntario - Helpline Administration - 519-439-0174

Crisis #:1-866-531-2600; www.connexontario.ca Helpline: Daily 24 hours Administration: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Telephone service providing confidential information about addiction, mental health and problem gambling resources in Ontario, including how to access them http://livechat.connexontario.ca/ECCChat/connex_chat.html" Web chat with information and referral specialist available. Email form available on website. Operated by ConnexOntario Health Services Information Call, email or visit the website, no referral required Eligibility: General public and service providers.

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ConnexOntario - mindyourmind - Crisis # - 1-866-531-2600

www.mindyourmind.ca; Website available daily 24 hours Youth mental health and engagement program that works in partnership with youth, emerging adults and the professionals who serve them to co-develop innovative tools and resources. Resources are designed to promote wellness, reduce stigma, and increase access to community supports, both professional and peer-based through active engagement, best practices and technology, youth are encouraged to reach out, get help and give help No referral required, visit website Eligibility: Youth 14-24 years.

Mother Reach London and Middlesex - 519-434-3644 ext 629

(Childreach) Crisis # Reach Out 24h Line - 1-866-933-2023

Call or text: 519-433-2023

265 Maitland St, London, ON, N6B 2Y3; www.healthunit.com/mother-reach Administration: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Drop in: Thu 1pm-3pm Postpartum depression support and information Hotline and Website - Support and information about perinatal mood disorders, including postpartum depression, for new mothers and their families. Hotline service includes, multiple language support through tele-health, direct contact with a professional, connection to mental health crisis services for emergencies, general recorded information on perinatal mood disorders and weekly drop-in Services. Call or drop in Eligibility: New mothers and their families.

Narcotics Anonymous - Greater London Area

GLASCNA, PO Box 1735, London, ON, N6A 5H9; www.glana.ca Automated Information Line daily 24 hours; Mutual support groups to avoid the use of addictive substances or any other mood-altering substances. Call for more information Eligibility: People who have problems with any mind altering, mood changing substance.

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Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site - Needle Exchange and

Harm Reduction Program - 519-631-9900 ext 1278

Clinical Services, Main Floor, 1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9 www.swpublichealth.ca; Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Safe place to get free, new needles and other injection drug use supplies. Safer inhalation kits, including pipes, mouthpieces and screens also provided. Free disposal of used equipment. Private and confidential. Testing for bloodborne infections and STIs available. Talk to a Public Health Nurse. Free naloxone take-home kits - lifesaving medication that can restore breathing of a person who has overdosed on heroin or prescription opioid medication. No referral needed, drop-in.

Thames Valley Children's Centre - 519-685-8700 779 Base Line Rd E, London, ON, N6C 5Y6; www.tvcc.on.ca Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Specialized supports for children and youth with intellectual and physical disabilities. Services include diagnosis, assessments, screenings, consultations, and treatments. Call, referral required for most services. Eligibility: Children and youth 19 years and younger, with physical, behavioural, communication or developmental needs.

Wellkin Child & Youth Wellness St. Thomas, ON - 1-877-539-0463

99 Edward Street, Saint Thomas, Ontario N5P 1Y8; www.wellkin.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm; Wellkin (formerly OECYC) delivers family mental health care with a focus on infants, children and youth living in Oxford and Elgin counties. Our programs and services support the needs of each individual while the agency maintains a well-rounded approach that include screening, assessment, treatment, and education. The supports and services have no costs attached. We aim to engage and support families/caregivers and peers in delivering care to infants, children and youth, while being responsive to their unique life and family circumstances. We wish that everyone accessing our services will achieve stability through active participation in treatment plans designed to address safe, healthy, and manageable outcomes. Please call our toll-free number to book an appointment.

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Wellkin Child & Youth Mental Wellness Woodstock, ON

519-539-0463 Crisis - 1-877-539-0463 After Hours - 1-877-539-0463

912 Dundas St, Woodstock, ON, N4S 1H1; www.wellkin.ca Hours vary; Group programs for children/youth (birth-18 years) and their families/caregivers Programs include; Anger Solutions - For children ages 7-9 years experiencing difficulty handling angry feelings. K.I.D.S. Group (Kid’s Ideas About Divorce and Separation) - For children experiencing difficulties with their parents' divorce or separation; WorryWarriors - For children ages 9 -12 years having difficulties managing feelings of worry and anxiety; Game On Boys (in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters Oxford County)-For boys ages 11-13 years. Mentoring program that focuses on physical activty, balanced eating and self-confidence. Go Girls (in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters Oxford County) - For girls ages 11-14 years. Mentoring program that focuses on physical activity, balanced eating and a positive self-image. DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy); For youth ages 12-18 years; assists teens in learning how to manage feelings and make wise behaviour choices through a mindful approach. Aims to increase positive coping skills and social skills. Parenting Groups (Circle of Security); For parents of children aged 0-6; Sign up through Walk In on Tuesdays from 10am-6pm Eligibility: Newborn to youth 18 years and their parents/caregivers

West Elgin Community Health Centre - Mental Health Counselling

Services - 519-768-1715

153 Main St, West Lorne, ON, N0L 2P0; www.wechc.on.ca Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm; Confidential counselling for all ages Referral forms available on website and at reception. Walk-in appointments available for adults on waitlist on third Thursday of each month.

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Parenting

Fresh Start Support Services - 519-637-7775

118 Centre St, St Thomas, ON, N5R 2Z9; www.fsms.ca Administration: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm or by appointment Housing support for pregnant women or women with newborns and low-income families wanting to improve their quality of life. Call or email Eligibility: Varies by program.

Mennonite Community Services - Family Education & Support Project

of Aylmer - 226-545-1050 “Call, text, or WhatsApp”

Mennonite Community Services, 16 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1H4 www.mcson.org/programs/fespa/ Assists families in adapting to Canada by offering health classes, nutrition program, parenting classes, healthy relationship classes, preschool programs, ESL classes for women, transportation and interpretation and making appointments. FESPA School - 21 weeks of classes for women and preschoolers. Mom and Baby - Year round home visits and group sessions for pregnant moms and babies up to four months. Family Support - Transportation to and interpretation at appointments for those registered in either the FESPA School or the Mom and Baby program. Call, no referral required.

Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site - Healthy Growth and

Development - Know and Grow Clinic - 519-631-9900

1230 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 1G9; www.swpublichealth.ca St Thomas and Aylmer locations - see website for details; Parents and caregivers can speak with a public health nurse about any questions you might have, such as (but not limited to): feeding your baby, growth and development, parenting, community supports, immunizations parents with questions or concerns about breastfeeding or child growth and development can also access the Know and Grow Line. Self referral - drop-in Eligibility: Women who are pregnant, parents with children 0 to 12 months old and their families.

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Senior Services

Alzheimer Society of Elgin-St Thomas - 519-633-4396

County Administration Bldg, 450 Sunset Dr, Suite 229, St Thomas, ON, N5R 5V1 www.alzheimer.ca/elgin Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Education, support, advocacy, social recreation and health care system navigation for persons living with dementia, their care partners and family members. Dementia education for professionals and the general public. Support Groups and Individual Support - Support groups and individual support for care partners and family members of persons living with dementia. Education Programs and Resources - Dementia education for care partners both in groups and individually. Programs for persons living with dementia. Education for professionals and the general public. Medic Alert Safely Home education. Lending library. Dementia Friendly Communities - For businesses and organizations to learn how to support someone living with dementia. Training is individualized to meet the needs of each business/organization. Social Recreation Programs - Minds in Motion for persons living with dementia and their care partners. Call, no referral required Eligibility: People with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, and their caregivers.

West Elgin Community Health Centre - Community Support Services

for Seniors - Drop-In - 519-768-1715 ext 2210

The Hub, 146 Munroe St, West Lorne, ON, N0L 2P0 www.wechc.on.ca Call for details; Drop-in programming providing opportunities for social activities and a meal. Eligibility: Older adults and adults with disabilities.

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Transportation

Four Counties Health Services - Community Support Services - Four

Counties Community Transit System Local - 519-693-8604

1824 Concession Dr, Newbury, ON, N0L 1Z0; www.mhalliance.on.ca Hours vary Non-emergency transportation to local appointments and activities Call, pre-booking required. Eligibility: Older adults, people with disabilities and anyone needing transportation to a medical appointment.

St Thomas Transit - Parallel Transit Reservations - 519-631-0001

Administration - 519-631-1680 ext 5130

Voyageur Transportation, 614 Talbot St, St Thomas, ON, N5P 3V7 www.stthomas.ca Paratransit: Mon-Fri 7:15am-6:45pm Sat 9:15am-6:45pm Booking Office: Mon-Fri 6:45am-6:45pm Sat 8:45am-6:45pm. City-wide curb-to-curb transportation services for those unable to board the public transit system. May be used for any purpose including employment, medical, personal business or leisure. Demand and standing order bookings available. Application form health professional's verification is required. For demand order, a reservation must be made up to 3 days in advance. Eligibility: People requiring transportation.

West Elgin Community Health Centre - Community Support Services

for Seniors - West Elgin Transportation Network - 519-768-0020

West Elgin Support Services (Dispatch Office), 160 Main St, West Lorne, ON, N0L 2P0; www.wechc.on.ca Administration: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Trips by appointment only. Must book 24-48 hours in advance. Non-emergency transportation to local medical appointments and regular activities such as shopping or visiting friends and family. Volunteer drivers use their own vehicles. All rides are dependent on volunteer availability. Call, pre-booking required Eligibility: Older adults and adults with disabilities.

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54

Index

Addiction Services of Thames Valley - Community Opioid Addiction Program -, 44

Addiction Services of Thames Valley - West Lorne Office (WECHC, 45 Al-Anon Family Group – London, 45 Alcoholics Anonymous - St Thomas and Area AA, 45 Alzheimer Society of Elgin-St Thomas, 51 Aylmer Old Town Hall Public Library – 519-773-2439, 43 Canada. Canada Revenue Agency, 22 Canada. Employment and Social Development Canada - Job Bank, 19 Canadian Cancer Society - Ontario Division - Smokers' Helpline, 28 Canadian Centre for Men and Families –519-914-5702, 13 Canadian Mental Health Association - Middlesex Branch - London -

Huron St Site - Friendly Callers - Senior Support Program, 46 Caring Cupboard Food Bank - Rodney, 24 Central Community Health Centre - Community Food Programs and

Hospitality Meals – 519-633-7989, 24 Children's Hospital London Health Sciences Centre - Children's

Emergency Department Virtual Emergency Clinic, 28 Community Living Elgin, 46 ConnexOntario – Helpline Administration, 46 ConnexOntario - mindyourmind, 47 Contact North - St Thomas, 14 Corner View Child Care – 519-633-7900, 6 Destination Church - Stone Soup Meal, 24 Dutton Co-Operative Child Care Centre, 6 Dutton Dunwich Community Centre, 11 EarlyON Child and Family Centre - St. Thomas-Elgin, 7 East Elgin Community Assistance Program - Corner Cupboard Food Bank

– 226-342-7716, 25 East Elgin Community Complex - 519-773-5631, 11 Eastwood Baptist Church - Clothing Giveaway, 10 Eastwood Housing Corporation - Pinetree Gardens for Seniors, 34 EAT 2 LEARN - Elgin School Nutrition Network – 519-207-1040, 25 Elder Abuse Elgin, 41 Elgin Audiology Consultants - Aylmer, 29 Elgin Audiology Consultants - West Lorne, 29

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Elgin Business Resource Centre, 19 Elgin County Library - Belmont Library, 43 Elgin County Library - John Kenneth Galbraith Library – Dutton, 43 Elgin County Library - Rodney Library, 43 Elgin County Library - Springfield Library, 43 Elgin County Library - West Lorne Library, 43 Elgin County Public Libraries – 519-631-1460, 43 Elgin County Youth For Christ/Youth Unlimited - 519-633-6538, 34 Elgin-Oxford Legal Clinic – 519-633-2638, 41 Employment Services Elgin - Ontario Employment Services, 19 Family and Children's Services of St Thomas and Elgin County, 13 Family Service Thames Valley - Credit Counselling Thames Valley, 22 Fanshawe Career And Employment Services Elgin – Aylmer Community

Services, 20 Fanshawe College - St Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus - Academic

Upgrading/GED preparation, 15 Fanshawe College - St Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus - Literacy and

Basic Skills, 15 Four Counties Health Services, 29, 52 Four Counties Health Services - Community Support Services - Four

Counties Community Transit System, 52 Fred Bodsworth Public Library – 519-874-4754, 43 Fresh Start Support Services, 50 Holy Angels Roman Catholic Parish - Outreach Lunch, 25 Housing Assistance Program - Administers housing assistance

programs,, 36 Ignite Youth Centre - 519-631-8820, 11 Inn Out of the Cold St Thomas-Elgin, 34 John Howard Society of London and District, 42 Landlord and Tenant Board - Southwestern Regional Office, 35 Leads Employment Services - Ontario Employment Assistance Services,

21 Legal Aid Ontario - St Thomas Family Duty Counsel, 42 Malahide Community Place Community Services Department, 12 Mennonite Community Services, 10, 40, 50 Mennonite Community Services - Aylmer Thrift Store, 10 Mennonite Community Services – EO Employment Services – 226-210-

6800, 21 Milestones Children’s Centre – 519-631-0952, 7

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Mother Reach London and Middlesex, 47 Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, 29 N'Amerind (London) Friendship Centre, 7 Narcotics Anonymous - Greater London Area, 47 New Beginnings Residence, 35 New Beginnings Residence - 519-631-4937, 35 Next to Mom, 8 Ontario. Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services - Family

Responsibility Office, 23 Ontario. Ministry of Health - Telehealth Ontario, 30 Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General - Middlesex County - Office of

the Crown Attorney, 42 Ontario. Ministry of the Attorney General - St Thomas Victim/Witness

Assistance Program, 13 Ontario. Ministry of Transportation - Enforcement and Field Services

London, Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford, 39 Port Stanley And Area Community Cupboard – 519-782-3122, 25 Port Stanley Library – 519-782-4241, 43 Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, 30 Robin's Nest Early Childhood Education Centre, 8 Salvation Army - London - Ontario Division - Centre of Hope, 35 Salvation Army (The) - St Thomas Community and Family Services, 10 Service Canada Centre - St Thomas, 22 ServiceOntario - London Counters, 40 ServiceOntario - West Elgin Counter General Inquiry, 40 Settlement.Org, 40 Shedden Keystone Complex - 519-769-2010, 12 Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site, 16, 30, 31, 32, 48, 50 Southwestern Public Health - St Thomas Site - Environmental Health -

Certified Food Handler Training, 16 Southwestern Public Health Food and Nutrition – 519-631-9900, 26 Southwold Township Library, Shedden – 519-764-2081, 43 St Paul's United Church - Community Lunch, 26 St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas-Elgin Social Services, 16, 23, 36 St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas-Elgin Social Services - St Thomas-Elgin

Ontario Works, 16 St Thomas (City of) - St Thomas-Elgin Social Services - St Thomas-Elgin

Ontario Works - Learning, Earning, and Parenting (LEAP) Program, 16 St Thomas Co-operative Nursery School, 8

57

St Thomas Early Learning Centre - Aspen Ave and Continuous Care Centre, 9

St Thomas Early Learning Centre - Elgin Home Child Care, 9 St Thomas Elgin Food Bank, 26 St Thomas Elgin General Hospital - COVID-19 Assessment Centre, 33 St Thomas Hearing Clinic, 32 St Thomas Seniors Recreation Centre - 519-633-2850, 12 St Thomas Transit - Parallel Transit Reservations, 52 St Thomas-Elgin Second Stage Housing – 519-637-2288, 36 St. Thomas Early Learning Centre - Aylmer Centre, 8 St. Thomas Early Learning Centre - Orchard Park Centre, 9 St. Thomas Elgin Childcare Services - 1-888-722-1540, 6 St. Thomas Public Library - 519-631-6050, 44 SWPH – St. Thomas Site - Healthy Growth and Development - Prenatal

Classes – 519-631-9900, 31 SWPH – St. Thomas Site- Environmental Health - Safe Water – 519-631-

9900, 31 Thames Valley Children's Centre, 48 Thames Valley District School Board - Balaclava Street Adult Learning

Centre - Adult and Continuing Education, 17 Thames Valley District School Board - GA Wheable Centre, 17 The Family Central Apartments, 37 The Family Central Apartments - 519-619-5910, 37 The Grace Cafe - St Thomas - Street Mission and Soup Kitchen, 26 Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, 33 Tiny Tots Co-operative Nursery School of Aldborough, 9 tykeTALK (Thames Valley Preschool Speech and Language Program, 18 Victim Services Elgin - Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario, 14 Victorian Order of Nurses - Middlesex-Elgin - Elgin-St Thomas Office -

Community Support Services - Meals On Wheels St Thomas, 27 Voyago - Voyageur Medical Transportation, 33 Wellkin Child & Youth Wellness St. Thomas, ON - 1-877-539-0463, 48 West Elgin Community Health Centre - Community Support Services for

Seniors, 51, 52 West Elgin Community Health Centre - Community Support Services for

Seniors - West Elgin Transportation Network, 52 West Elgin Community Health Centre - Mental Health Counselling

Services, 49

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West Elgin Community Health Centre Community Food Programs – 519-768-1715, 27

West Elgin Daffodil Auxiliary - Welfare, 28 West Elgin Recreation Centre - Bookings: 519-785-0560, 12 Western University - Schulich Medicine and Dentistry - Dental Clinic

Main Adult Clinic, 33 Women's Place Emergency Shelter - 519-633-0155, 37 YWCA St Thomas - Elgin Skills Training and Upgrading - Literacy and

Basic Skills -, 18 YWCA St Thomas-Elgin, 10, 41 YWCA St Thomas-Elgin - Settlement Services for Newcomers to Canada,

41 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Fairwinds Transitional Home for young men –

519-631-9800, 38 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin – Harmony House Transitional home for young

woman 519-631-9800, 37 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin – Horizon House Transitional home for young

woman 519-631-9800, 38 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin – Second Story Transitional Home for Men –

519-631-9800, 39 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin - Unity House Transitional Home for young

men – 519-631-9800, 38 YWCA St. Thomas Elgin – Woman’s Residence – 519-631-9800, 38

59

Notes

60

Notes

61

Special thanks to our community partners

St.Thomas-Elgin

St.Thomas-Elgin

Second Stage Housing

62

Correctional & Justice Services, London

63

64

For more information about this directory please contact: YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin

519-631-9800 1-800-461-0954

https://www.ywcaste.ca/