Ontario Making It Easier for Youth in Oxford County to Connect to Mental Health Services

New Youth Wellness Hub will provide support closer to home

August 12, 2024

WOODSTOCK — The Ontario government is making it faster and easier for young people to connect to mental health and substance use services by launching a new Youth Wellness Hub to serve Oxford County. This is one of 10 new hubs the government is adding to the network of 22 hubs bringing the total to 32 across the province.

“Our government is continuing to take action to improve mental health and addictions services in communities across Ontario, and support people and their families living with mental health and substance use challenges,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “As we expand the number of Youth Wellness Hubs across the province, young people in Oxford County can connect to the mental health and addictions care they need, in one convenient location, closer to home.”

Beginning in 2025, the new hub will connect youth aged 12 to 25 in Oxford County to convenient and free mental health, substance use and primary care services in a safe, youth-friendly space. Rural communities in the area will also be supported by a mobile hub model, making it easier for youth to drop in for in-person counselling or peer support close to their home.

Other services provided through the hub will also include supports for newcomers and access to community and social supports and employment services.

“By continuing to expand our network of Youth Wellness Hubs, our government is ensuring youth across the province have convenient access to the highest-quality mental health and addictions supports, when and where they need them,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Oxford County’s new Youth Wellness Hub will be a place for young people to feel safe and connected to a community that supports them and helps equip them with the tools they need to face life’s challenges.”

With 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.