Myriam Quinn, Author at CSCHN

New Horizons funding – $25,000 for Niagara in partnership with the Age Friendly Niagara Council

Press release

Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara (CSCHN) has received funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, a program of the Government of Canada, to support a volunteer training initiative across the Niagara Region in partnership with the Age-Friendly Niagara Council (AFNC), which is serving as the regional backbone organization.

The funding will support training that equips volunteers with practical skills in leadership, facilitation, community engagement, and digital communication. The initiative is designed to strengthen local capacity and support the implementation of age-friendly programs across Niagara.

CSCHN will serve as the funding recipient and administrative lead for the initiative, ensuring compliance with program requirements, including full bilingual accessibility in both English and French.

The Age-Friendly Niagara Council (AFNC) functions as the strategic system integrator for Niagara’s agefriendly ecosystem aligning partners, setting shared priorities and ensuring coordinated implementation across communities.

“CSCHN’s role is to support the administration and accessibility of the program,” said Bianca Gagnon, Programs Director at the CSCHN “AFNC provides the regional system leadership needed to implement this work effectively.”

“AFNC is leading the design and delivery of the training to ensure it is aligned, practical, and grounded in community needs,” said project leader Ginger Grant, PhD. “Our partnership with CSCHN allows us to build strategic capacity in a way that ensures diverse efforts operate as a coherent, effective system.” The program will be delivered in phases, with participation opportunities available to community members throughout Niagara.

About Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara (CSCHN)
Mandated to provide health, social, and community services in French to improve the quality of life of Francophones in Hamilton and Niagara, the CSCHN manages community programs based on the most up-to-date evidence regarding the needs of the community it serves. Programs are developed and implemented in accordance with best professional practices, codes of ethics, approved management systems, and the requirements of the Canadian Centre for Accreditation as well as the performance indicators of our many regional, provincial, and federal funders.

About Age-Friendly Niagara Council (AFNC)
The Age-Friendly Niagara Council (AFNC) serves as the strategic system leader for age-friendly development across the Niagara Region, aligning partners, coordinating action, and ensuring that investments translate into sustained, measurable impact. Operating as a regional platform rather than a service provider, AFNC brings together municipalities, community organizations, institutions, and businesses to set shared priorities, guide implementation, and support evidence-informed decision-making. By connecting initiatives, reducing duplication, and scaling what works, AFNC ensures that age-friendly efforts function as a coherent system, one that strengthens participation, belonging, and economic contribution across the lifespan.

About New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP)
The New Horizons for Seniors Program is a Canadian federal grant that provides up to $25,000 in funding for community-based projects designed by or for seniors. It focuses on reducing social isolation, promoting volunteerism and enhancing the quality of life for seniors through social participation and inclusion.

For more information:
Bianca Gagnon
Programs Director
bianca.gagnon@cschn.ca
905-734-1141 – www.cschn.c

Looking Back – 2026 Gala – Black History Month

Press release

Hamilton, February 13, 2026

On February 7, more than 400 people gathered for our 13th Black History Month Gala. Under the theme of La relève (The Next Generation), it was a memorable event highlighting the cultural richness, solidarity, and intergenerational transmission within the community.

After starting the evening interactively by playing the balafon, participants witnessed a symbolic torch-passing ceremony, a nod to the Olympic period and also marking the transmission of values, knowledge, and leadership from elders to the new generation. This emotional moment served as a reminder of the importance of building a future where everyone can find their place, while honoring those who paved the way for collective vitality.

The evening continued with inspiring performances by members of our community, as this year the Burundian Association and the Haitian Association offered vibrant cultural shows celebrating the heritage, resilience, and diversity of Black cultures.

The highlight was the artistic contribution of our partner, the Centre Francophone Hamilton, which, thanks to an energetic and passionate performance by headliners the Sissokho Brothers, captivated and united the audience at the close of the event.

The festivities were enhanced by the presence of Hamilton Mayor Horwath and Canadian Member of Parliament Kuruc, as well as the commitment of our Platinum sponsors: Evolution Women’s Wellness, Collège Boréal, and Hamilton Urban Core Health Centre.

The 2026 edition of the gala once again demonstrated the creativity and determination of the community, which, united by its history, remains resolutely focused on a future where racism, hateful acts, and discrimination have no place.

For more information:

Sylvère Baransegeta,

Executive Director

905-528-0163 – www.cschn.ca

Black History Month – 2026 Gala Invitation

The Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara is hosting the 13th Annual Black History Month Gala, which will take place on February 7, 2026, at Liuna Station, 360 James Street North, Hamilton.

The annual Black History Month Gala is much more than a festive evening: it is a highlight where we shine a spotlight on the resilience, heritage, and leadership of Francophone communities of African descent.

For this 13th edition, we are proud to present the theme LA RELÈVE (The Next Generation), which highlights the transition between generations, the transmission of knowledge, and the momentum toward a future where everyone can find their place and contribute fully to the collective vitality.

Come celebrate an unforgettable evening in a welcoming atmosphere.

On the program: a delicious dinner, an energetic performance by the Frères Sissokho, and a DJ set to get the dance floor moving.

Tickets: $40 — limited seating: https://square.link/u/lcxle4Ok

Click on the poster to buy your tickets now and don’t miss this unique celebration!

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Hamilton, November 25, 2025,

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Gender-Based Violence Team wishes to reiterate that combating all forms of violence against women and girls remains a top priority, here and elsewhere.

Every day, the Hamilton/Niagara Community Health Centre is committed to helping women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and families affected by violence. We offer comprehensive support ranging from emergency assistance to rebuilding, as well as prevention and awareness services. Our work is not limited to intervening with victims and survivors: it also extends to education and early prevention, particularly through ViRAJ Ontario-HCCHN, a program that prevents violence in youth romantic relationships. We work with young people in schools and various community settings to offer interactive workshops, engaging activities, educational tools, and practical resources to promote respect, equality, and healthy relationships from an early age.

Gender-based violence takes many forms: domestic violence, sexual exploitation, harassment, cyber violence, and human trafficking, which remains one of the most serious violations of human rights. Trafficking is an extreme form of gender-based violence that destroys lives, families, and communities.

On this symbolic day, we call on governments and decision-makers to strengthen their financial support for community organizations that are on the front lines every day, protecting, supporting, and giving hope to victims. These resources are essential to ensuring the continuity and quality of services, but also to innovating in prevention and education approaches.

We also emphasize the importance for the Department for Women and Gender Equality Canada to promote funding for the establishment of a French-speaking shelter in the Hamilton and Niagara regions. It is essential that women who are victims of violence and their children have access to services and refuge in their own language when they need it most. Providing linguistically and culturally appropriate support is not a luxury, but a fundamental right.

Protecting women’s rights is not only a matter of social justice, but a collective imperative. Investing in women’s safety, autonomy, and well-being means investing in a more just, equitable, and humane society.

On this date, November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to building a world where every woman, every girl, every member of society can live free from all forms of violence. We invite you to follow us through our social media posts and to join the various workshops we will be offering throughout this campaign until its conclusion on December 10, International Human Rights Day.

Let’s come together to build a safer, healthier, and more equitable Canada.

One day – One gesture – One action

Loubna Moric – Director of VAW Programs.

June – Pride Month – Diversity, community and unity

Press release

Welland, June 2 2025

Diversity, community and unity

This week, we are renewing our commitment to the 2SLGBTQI+ community through Franco-Pride flag-raising ceremonies.
At the CSCHN, we stand against hatred, all forms of violence, oppression and exclusion and proudly declare that we are there for everyone.
Let’s work together to continue to advance the rights of members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Only by remaining open-minded and learning more about their challenges and needs can we break down barriers.
Because even now, in 2025, and here in Niagara and Hamilton, there are young people who cannot be themselves for fear of rejection by their families and loved ones, we want to say that
at the CSCHN we are non-judgmental and welcome with open arms and open hearts.

For more information:
France Vaillancourt,
Executive Director
905-734-1141
www.cschn.ca

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Welland, February 22, 2025

On this day of awareness, it is essential to remember that human trafficking remains a growing plague, including in the Niagara region. According to Statistics Canada, Ontario recorded an average annual rate of 1.6 cases of human trafficking per 100,000 inhabitants between 2012 and 2022, a figure higher than the national average of 1.0 cases. The majority of victims identified are young women and girls, often recruited in vulnerable situations.

The Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara (CSCHN) is deeply committed to fighting this crime. Our French-language services include individual counselling, as well as awareness and prevention workshops in schools and with our community partners. Our aim is to educate and equip young people and the community with the tools they need to prevent this plague and protect themselves.

We are also proud to be part of the Coalition provinciale francophone contre la traite des personnes, which brings together a number of partners involved in prevention and support for survivors. This collaboration is essential to ensure an effective and coordinated response to this problem.

If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, resources are available 24/7:

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline. This line offers confidential, multilingual support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to victims, survivors and their caregivers.

You can reach us at 1-833-900-1010 or by chat at canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca. We do not judge and will not contact law enforcement without your consent. When you call, you decide the next steps, whether it is a simple chat or contacting community services.

📞 National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-833-900-1010

📞 Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara: 1-866-437-7606

Together, let’s strengthen our efforts to eradicate human trafficking and support survivors on their journey to recovery.

For further resources follow the attached link: https://www.endtrafficking.ca/fr

Loubna Moric,

Director, Community Initiatives and Anti-Violence and Sexual Assault Programmes

905-528-0163

loubna.moric@cschn.ca

The CSCHN becomes a Seniors Active Living Centre for Francophones in the Niagara Region

MPP Oosterhoff Announces New Seniors Active Living Centre in Niagara

French-Language Programming in Welland to Keep Local Seniors Fit, Active and Socially Connected

NEWS

January 23, 2025

WELLAND – Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, today, announced the approval of a new Seniors Active Living Centre at Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara in Welland. This is one of the up to 100 new Seniors Active Living Centres opening across the province this year to help improve seniors’ quality of life and build community engagement.

“Founded in 1992, Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara has been providing critical health care and community services for Francophone residents across Niagara,” said MPP Oosterhoff.

“This new Seniors Active Living Centre will help older adults in Welland stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected through culturally relevant activities.”

Seniors Active Living Centre programs offer seniors and older adults learning opportunities such as financial management and elder abuse prevention and a variety of recreational and social activities including fitness, healthy lifestyle and wellness classes that are important supports in communities.

France Vaillancourt, Executive Director at the CSCHN, adds “We couldn’t be more excited and grateful to become a Seniors Active Living Centre. It will give us the opportunity to ensure the continuity of life changing services offered to French-speaking seniors; services that support independence and significantly enhances the quality of life of the participants. It is so important to invest in preventative measures such as this one as they help our seniors stay active, engaged, social and maintain their well-being.”

“The opening of a new Seniors Active Living Centre at the Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara is a significant milestone for our community,” said Frank Campion, Mayor of the City of Welland.

“This initiative not only enhances the services available to our seniors but also strengthens Welland’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and well-being for all residents. Our seniors are a vital part of Welland’s identity, and this new centre will offer them opportunities to stay active, healthy, and engaged in culturally enriching programs. I thank the provincial government for this investment in the quality of life of our older adults and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.”

“This is welcome news to see additional supports for seniors here in Niagara that will further enhance the interaction between the Francophone communities in Welland and Port Colborne,” said Bill Steele, Mayor of Port Colborne.

“We are delighted to expand activities and services to more seniors in Niagara,” said, Hon. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.

“This program will help older adults of all abilities to thrive in their homes and communities.”

The government remains committed to better supporting Ontario’s aging population and the people who care for them by improving and expanding supports for seniors no matter where they live.

Quick Facts:

On June 1, 2024, changes to the Seniors Active Living Centres Act, 2017, came into effect, allowing more types of organizations to provide the twenty percent contribution requirement towards the operating costs of Seniors Active Living Centre programs. Now Seniors Active Living Centre programs can be operated by municipalities, non-profit corporations, registered charities, Indigenous groups, Legions, Lions Clubs and recreational clubs.
In the Fall Economic Statement of 2024, a $17 million increase in funding over three years was approved to support up to 100 new Seniors Active Living Centres across the province.
For 2025-26, Seniors Active Living Centre programs will be able to request up to $55,000 for maintenance and operating costs, an increase from the previous maximum of $50,000 in 2024 and up from $42,700 in base funding from 2023.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara (CSCHN) is calling for greater mobilisation to tackle all forms of violence suffered by women and girls, emphasising the need for immediate responses tailored to the realities of our region. Faced with the worrying increase in feminicide and the escalation of gender-based violence, it is more crucial than ever to provide tangible solutions and put in place resources tailored to our communities, including French-speaking emergency shelters.

Feminicide: an alarming and persistent reality

The figures are implacable: acts of feminicide continue to rise, shattering lives and leaving families in mourning. Behind every statistic is a woman, a mother, a daughter, a friend, brutally torn from her future. Feminicide is the ultimate form of violence, often preceded by years of abuse and control. As a society, we have a duty to protect women and ensure their fundamental right to safety. As such, we reiterate our call for stronger measures to prevent these tragedies and save lives.

The housing crisis: an additional obstacle for survivors

The housing crisis exacerbates the risks faced by women trying to escape violence. Access to affordable housing is increasingly difficult, and shelters are at capacity. For many, the lack of available and accessible housing is becoming an insurmountable obstacle, forcing them to choose between remaining in a dangerous situation or becoming homeless.

The lack of support infrastructure for francophones makes this situation even more difficult. Francophone women in our region currently do not have emergency shelters that meet their linguistic and cultural needs, limiting their access to comprehensive and immediate help. The CSCHN is campaigning for the creation of a French-language shelter in our region, to meet the specific needs of our clientele and ensure that every woman has a place to take refuge, without language or cultural barriers.

Working together for lasting solutions!

On this International Day, we are calling on governments, community partners, leaders and civil society to join forces to take concrete action. Together, we must:

Strengthen prevention and protection measures for women at risk.
Invest in affordable and accessible housing solutions to enable survivors of violence to safely regain their independence.
Support the creation of a French-language emergency shelter for women victims of violence in our region.

Every action counts in building a society where women can live without fear and where dignity and safety are a reality for everyone. VAW Team is committed to working alongside all women and girls to put an end to violence.

Together, let’s create a safer and fairer world.

Loubna Moric,

Director, Community Initiatives and Anti-Violence and Sexual Assault Programmes

905-528-0163

loubna.moric@cschn.ca

No to hate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 13 2024

Response from the Community Advisory Council (CCC) of the Welcoming Francophone Community of Hamilton and its Francophone partners following the Jackson Square incident : A strong condemnation of hateful remarks and a call for community solidarity

The CCC and its partners express their outrage over acts of hate observed on November 9 in front of Jackson Square, where masked demonstrators chanted racist slogans inciting hatred and exclusion.

These acts are contrary to the values of inclusion, diversity, and equity that we uphold within our Francophone communities and beyond.

Immigration: A Vital Pillar of Our Collective Prosperity

Immigration plays a crucial role in the development of our regions and the vitality of our Francophone culture. Each newcomer enriches our social fabric, brings new perspectives, and contributes to economic growth. We must all unite to remind ourselves that immigration is not a threat but an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient, and more open society. Immigration helps fill gaps in high-demand sectors, such as construction, healthcare, information technology, etc., ensuring better development of our municipality, province, and Canada as a whole.

Hamilton continues to grow, partly thanks to immigration. This growth is essential to meet labor needs, particularly in the context of an aging population.

Moreover, immigrant-led businesses generate significant revenues and create jobs. Recent studies indicate that immigrants have founded approximately 30% of new businesses in Hamilton in recent years.

A Call for Unity and Solidarity

We reaffirm our commitment to making Hamilton a welcoming city for all. Diversity is the true strength of this city, and together, we must fight hatred and intolerance. We encourage all residents to rally behind the vision of a #HamiltonForAll, where everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of origin.

The CCC calls on local leaders, partner organizations, and community members to strongly condemn these acts of hatred and to reiterate their support for initiatives that promote inclusion and welcome newcomers.

For more information on the contribution of immigration to Canadian industry sectors, refer to the #ImmigrationMatters campaign on the IRCC website.

Benefits of immigration on Canadian sectors – Canada.ca

For Inquiries:

RIFCSO – rifcso@cschn.ca
Phone : +1 (289) 414-0806

www.destinationhamilton.org

Dignity, equality and security for all

Press release

Hamilton, June 28, 2024

To renew our ongoing commitment to the LGBTQ2s+ community, the CSCHN family held Fierté-Pride flag-raising ceremonies in Welland and Hamilton.

These events represent our promise to the community, but also state that we stand against hatred and all forms of systematic violence, oppression and exclusion.

It is essential that we present ourselves as allies, as a safe, secure and unprejudiced place to work and visit, as a positive and welcoming environment.

A constant effort must be made to continue advancing the rights of members of the LGBTQ2s+ community, and it is only by remaining open and learning more about the challenges and needs of these communities that we will succeed in breaking down barriers.

Because love is love, the CSCHN is there for everyone.

For more information:

France Vaillancourt, Executive Director

905-734-1141 – www.cschn.ca