'A stronger and safer place': Action table aiding Newmarket Heights

Newmarkettoday.ca
May 17, 2023

Action is underway to help support the Newmarket Heights neighbourhood, led by a new community agency.

Routes Connecting Communities has taken over the mantle of leading the community action table and overseeing efforts to aid the community. The community transportation services presented to town council May 15 to provide an update on its efforts to improve the mental well-being and housing stability in the neighbourhood.

Routes project manager Sandra Hanmer said the agency took on the action table in January. She said through efforts like workshops they are engaging residents.

“We are providing opportunities, coming up with ideas and ways that people can be connected throughout the community,” she said. “Just making it a bit of a stronger and safer place for them.”

A community action table has been working in the community for about a year under York Region's community safety and well-being plan. Newmarket Heights was identified as one of the areas of focus, with an average income of approximately $9,000 lower than the regional average.

Efforts the table is looking at include adult peer support and a service fair roadshow to improve awareness of available services. For mental health, the table is looking at hosting events, creating more event space and increasing access to recreation and green space. Through the United Way, the table has also offered grants for community members and outside agencies to initiate rapid actions to help the community.

There is plenty of positive energy in the community for the efforts, area councillor Trevor Morrison said.

“Getting to know the residents and seeing the ideas and the passion that they have for improving the community, for getting that engagement, is really tangible,” Morrison said.

The community has had concerns regarding unfair evictions amid the housing crisis.

Councillor Victor Woodhouse said there are many residents in the community in need of help.

“Our community is a much, much better place as a result of individuals in our community stepping up to help others,” he said. “I just encourage your work.”

Hanmer asked council to help by spreading the word about initiatives from the community action table and providing event space.

Mayor John Taylor said it is positive to see the community engaging and actively participating in the process.

“To see this work occurring here in Newmarket Heights is very exciting. It’s a community that is incredibly vibrant and dynamic,” Taylor said. “It takes this kind of co-ordinated focus that the action is providing. To say, 'let's all get together, row together, think in the same way together,' but to do it with the community, the community at the centre, as the catalyst."