'Expanding the focus': Bradford health fair has something for everyone

Health team hosting event at BWG Leisure Centre from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 16; it'll feature more than 25 service providers, from CHATS to 360 Kids

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1 / 1 The BWG Leisure Centre is seen in Bradford on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023.Michael Owen/BradfordToday

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If you’re looking for health-care services and resources in South Simcoe, then this Bradford event is for you.

The Northern York South Simcoe Ontario Health Team (NYSSOHT) is inviting everyone to attend their community health and information fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 16 in the multipurpose room of the BWG Leisure Centre, 471 West Park Ave.

The health team started hosting the fairs last autumn to provide local residents with information and resources on health care, wellness, community, and social services available in the area, and events in Newmarket, Georgina and Alliston put a focus on the aging population, according to Grace Han, NYSSOHT’s community integration lead.

“This year, we’re expanding the focus to serve a wider variety of groups, including seniors, mental health and addiction support, newcomers, immigrants, and other diverse populations,” she said via email.

Initially, the health team planned to emphasize support for newcomers and immigrants who may not know where to turn for help, but Han explained the scope broadened as work continued.

In addition to representatives from the health team, the fair is set to include more than 25 different service providers ranging from targeted supports for those dealing with conditions such as cancer or Alzheimer's, to paramedic and community services, to the Canadian Mental Health Association and more.

On top of that, the health team will offer refreshments and all guest are expected to receive a raffle ticket at the door for prizes donated by the providers to be announced at noon.

For some guests, the real prize could be discovering access to the help they need.

“We hope they’ll learn more about the services and resources available in South Simcoe and feel more connected with the community,” Han said.

There is no cost to attend the event, and while not required, Han recommends people register using the Eventbrite page.

NYSSOHT formed through a merger last year between the Southlake Community Ontario Health Team and the South Simcoe Ontario Health Team, and serves Newmarket, Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Georgina, New Tecumseth, Cookstown, Essa Township, Base Borden, the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio and the Town of Mono.

The health team works to reduce gaps in the health-care system and improve access for patients, families and caregivers through better collaboration of health-care providers.

More information about NYSSOHT is available at nyssoht.ca.