Health News For Central West

MAPLE — The Ontario government is delivering on its commitment to protect the provincial health-care system by making it faster and easier for young people to connect to mental health and substance use support. The Maple Youth Wellness Hub is one of 10 new hubs the government is adding to the network of 22 hubs already opened or in development, bringing the total to 32 across the province.

“Our government is continuing to take action to build a connected and convenient system of care that meets the needs of youth and their families,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “As part of our record investments to expand Youth Wellness Hubs across Ontario and supporting communities with the care they need, the opening of the Maple Youth Wellness Hub ensures young people have access to high-quality mental health and addictions services, closer to home, in a space designed just for them.”

The new hub offers free, walk-in services for youth aged 12 to 25, services include mental health and substance use support, primary care, peer support and social services. Additional services offered through the hub include supports for newcomers, employment services and access to community and social supports.

The hub was co-designed by York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families, in collaboration with local youth, families and community partners to ensure the spaces and services reflected the needs of the community.

“Youth Wellness Hubs are about providing young people with the supports they need to connect and thrive,” said Vijay Thanigasalam, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “By expanding this network, we’re strengthening Ontario’s mental health and addictions system and making it easier for youth to get convenient, integrated care in a safe, welcoming space that meets their needs.”

The milestone supports Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the government has significantly expanded the number of Youth Wellness Hubs across the province to make it faster and easier for young people to connect to mental health and substance use support, primary care, social services and more.

Quick Facts

Quotes

"Back in January, I announced the province was going to fund a new Youth Wellness Hub in the heart of Vaughan — the first of its kind in our community. Today, I am proud to have delivered on my commitment to open a dedicated space — a one-stop shop of free integrated care — to support the health of our youth. Young people face difficulty on social media, in the classroom and in our communities — which is why the opening of a dedicated center providing wrap-around mental health and substance use support will make it easier for youth to get the care they need, close to home. "

- Stephen Lecce
MPP for King—Vaughan

"Mental health care is health care, and our government remains committed to ensuring that our youth have access to the supports they need to thrive. The new Maple Youth Wellness Hub will empower families in Thornhill and across York Region by providing youth with care that is more accessible, and closer to home."

- Laura Smith
MPP, Thornhill

"The importance of supporting the mental health and well-being of Ontario’s young people cannot be overstated. That is why I am proud to see our government opening yet another Youth Wellness Hub — and right here in York Region. Building on the proven success of hubs across the province, this safe and welcoming space will be a game-changer for Vaughan’s youth, providing the high-quality care and supports they deserve, close to home."

- Michael Tibollo
MPP, Vaughan—Woodbridge

"Mental health affects people of every age, but especially the youth of our community. I want to express my gratitude to Premier Doug Ford, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones and MPP Stephen Lecce for their continued investment in our city through the new Maple Youth Wellness Hub. By providing free mental health services for youth aged 12 to 25 years old, we can help ensure young people in Vaughan receive the support and resources they need to thrive and feel safe."

- Steven Del Duca
Mayor, City of Vaughan

"I’m thrilled that doors are officially opening at this inclusive new space for youth in Vaughan and the surrounding area. Here, young people will find a full range of integrated supports—mental health, substance use care, primary care, housing, employment, recreation, and more—under one roof. This hub is possible thanks to the Government of Ontario, York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families, and community partners and youth who came together to make it a reality. Together, we are creating better opportunities and brighter futures with youth across Ontario."

- Carole-Anne Chiasson
Executive Director, Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario

"YWHO Maple is a testament to what’s possible when youth are empowered to lead. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our Youth Advisory Council to co-design services that reflect the real needs of young people in Vaughan. From building partnerships with organizations like York Hills, 360°kids, and CMHA, to helping shape a space that offers integrated mental health, substance use, and primary care services, every step has been driven by a deep commitment to youth wellness. I’m proud of the dedication shown by our youth leaders, staff, and partners, and I’m honoured to contribute to a hub that truly puts youth at the center. "

- Nina Singh
Hub Manager, Youth Wellness Hub Maple

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