Abstract
In 2006, The Neighbourhood Organization (TNO), Flemingdon Health Centre (FHC), and Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) partnered with local stakeholders to establish the Thorncliffe Park Community Hub. This integrated and sustainable multi-service hub aims to enhance client and community outcomes by efficiently utilizing healthcare, social services, and community resources, promoting health equity and social prescribing. Located at 45 Overlea Blvd., the Hub will span 67,000 sq ft in the heart of the community. It will provide social services through TNO and Don Valley Community Legal Services (DVCLS), and healthcare services through Home and Community Care (HCC), Toronto Public Health Dental (TPH), Health Access Thorncliffe Park (HATP), and The Midwives' Clinic of East York–Don Mills. The project has secured funding from the Ministry of Health (MOH), United Way, City of Toronto, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with preliminary costs estimated at $25 million. The construction started in December 2023 with an anticipated move-in date of winter 2024. The Hub will be pivotal in addressing the complex health and social needs of the communities, acting as a catalyst for preventative care for vulnerable populations. Positioned in the heart of East York, particularly in the dense, high-risk neighborhoods of Thorncliffe and Flemingdon Parks, the Hub will ensure residents have quick access to health and social services, enabling timely medical interventions for a newcomer and refugee population that might otherwise lack such resources. Overview of Services: The Thorncliffe Park Community Hub will offer a comprehensive array of services designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. Social services, provided by TNO and DVCLS, will include legal aid, employment assistance, and settlement services. Healthcare services will encompass primary care, dental care, midwifery services, and specialized programs for chronic disease management, provided by HCC, TPH, HATP, and The Midwives' Clinic of East York–Don Mills. Additionally, through partnerships with grassroots and other community organizations, the Hub will provide linkages to housing and employment services and access to a wide range of specialists, from dermatologists to psychiatric services. This multi-disciplinary approach will ensure that all aspects of health and well-being are addressed in a coordinated manner, promoting health equity. Community Engagement and Design: Extensive community engagement has been a cornerstone of the Hub's development. Regular consultations and feedback sessions have been conducted with local residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure the Hub meets the unique needs of Thorncliffe Park and surrounding areas. This collaborative approach has led to a design that reflects the community priorities and fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents. Impact on the Community: The Thorncliffe Park Community Hub is not just a facility; it will be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. By addressing the root causes of health and social disparities, the Hub will promote preventative care and improve overall community health outcomes. The integration of services will reduce duplication, streamline care, and maximize resource utilization. For the newcomer population, the Hub will provide a welcoming environment where they can access essential services without fear or hesitation.
Conclusion: The Thorncliffe Park Community Hub represents a groundbreaking approach to community health and well-being. Its integrated model, comprehensive services, and deep community engagement make it a vital asset to Thorncliffe Park and the surrounding areas. As we move forward, the Hub will continue to adapt and evolve, meeting the needs of a dynamic and diverse population. This presentation will delve into the journey, achievements, and future directions of the Thorncliffe Park Community Hub, showcasing its critical role in transforming community health and well-being through health equity and social prescribing.