Stonetown Supports: Well-being Resources
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Interested in support available to St. Marys residents?
Stonetown Supports is St. Marys residents' connection to find the supports and resources they need for food security, mental health and addiction, financial aid, housing, and more.
Our residents are the foundation of our community and we are all as unique as each limestone that has been carefully placed within the walls of this beautiful town. Even the seemingly strongest of exteriors faces challenges, like weathering and erosion, and if they are not provided with the maintenance and care they need, those walls will begin to weaken. We understand that we all have different needs and require help at times. We want to ensure that everyone can find the help they need so as a community, we can be Strong As Stone.
What do you need help with?
Below is a comprehensive list of government and community-based, non-clinical health and social services resources that are available to St. Marys residents.
Developmental Services |
Community Living St. Marys and AreaProvides assistance for people with a disability and/or their family in planning for a positive future. They provide community development, support and planning services to anyone in St. Marys and area with a developmental disability. Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) South West RegionThe access point for adult developmental services funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) in Ontario. Serves individuals 18 years or older by supporting the application process for ministry-funded services and helping determine which services may be useful based on client need. Family Services Perth-HuronAdult Protective Services: This organization serves adults over age 18 who have a developmental disability and live independently in the community. An Adult Protective Service Worker (APSW) provides co-ordination of services, advocacy, counselling, and emotional support. Requires DSO application. This organization serves adults over age 18 who have a developmental disability and live independently in the community. Child Care Services: Provides a variety of respite and in-home support for families that care for an infant, child or youth (to age 18) with a developmental and/or physical disability. Services include Special Services at Home, Rotary Respite House (partnership with Rotary Clubs of Perth County), Family Support Worker, and Buddy Up Social Skills Group. Requires DSO application. Foundations/Community Participations Supports: Provides young people with developmental disabilities who are transitioning out of high school the opportunity to develop leadership, literacy and numeracy skills, as well as recreational, leisure, and social opportunities. Requires DSO application. Phone: 519-273-1020 or Regional Support AssociatesAdult behavioural supports for residents in Perth and Huron Counties with a diagnosed developmental delay. Requires a DSO application. They are affiliated with Woodstock General Hospital. |
Financial Security |
Credit Canada Debt SolutionsCredit Canada is a non-profit organization and credit counselling agency. Provides supports for residents having difficulty managing their budget or looking for money management strategies around debt. Provides virtual services over the phone for residents of Perth County and across the province. They specialize in helping people avoid bankruptcy, becoming debt-free and achieving financial wellness. Their counselling is free and confidential. Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)Application for income and employment supports for residents experiencing a disability. Offered through the Ministry of Community and Social Services. Ontario WorksProvides emergency financial support for Perth County residents with no income. Assists with ODSP applications in cases where a resident has a long-term disability. Calling ahead to arrange an appointment is strongly recommended. City of Stratford Social ServicesThis department helps those who need assistance with accessing income, housing, homelessness services, and childcare supports. United Way Urgent Needs FundIf you are looking for help, whether paying a bill or buying groceries to get through the week, you are encouraged to apply for the UWPH’s Urgent Needs Fund for Individuals. Address: 1st floor, 82 Erie Street, Stratford, ON, N5A 2M4 |
Food Security |
Community Wellness Garden ProgramFresh air and the promise of homegrown produce can do a lot for one’s well-being. Collectively called the “Wellness Gardens”, plots are available on a first-come, first-served application process. A $25 fee applies (subsidy available based on need). Food Banks and Community Meals (HPPH)Public Health is working with local food banks and community meal programs to ensure they can operate safely and provide food security to families who may be under additional stress. Visit their website for a comprehensive list of resources. House of Blessing StratfordThis is a local food bank who helps families and individuals in their immediate time of need. They offer free home delivery of food hampers, personal care items (toiletries, feminine hygiene products and incontinence supplies), diapers and formula. The Local Community Food Centre: Community Access Market & Access Market Delivery ServiceOffers fresh local fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed meats to St. Marys residents at wholesale prices. Onsite shopping available Mondays from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Delivery Service orders are to be completed by 3:00 PM on Tuesdays for delivery Thursday afternoons. The Local Community Food Centre: St. Marys NOURISH Equal Access Food MarketNourish provides weekly door step delivery of pre-selected fresh local vegetable and fruit boxes to St. Marys residents at wholesale prices. Orders must be received before 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays for delivery on Thursday between noon and 3:00 p.m. St. Marys Community MealsA weekly meal is delivered on Monday evenings through the St. Marys United Church, from April 19, 2021 to the end of June, 2021. The program is on hiatus for the summer but will resume in September. Cost is by donation. St. Marys Friendship Centre: Shopping ServicesThe Friendship Centre offers a variety of grocery shopping options to accommodate your individual needs. Volunteers complete weekly grocery shops. Staff offers support for online ordering and pick-up and drop-off as well as Food Hamper delivery. St. Marys Friendship Centre: Meals on WheelsHot and nutritious full course meals are delivered by local volunteers five days a week. Meals consist of a main course, soup or salad and dessert. For convenience, frozen entrées, soups and desserts are available for pick up or delivery. St. Marys Salvation Army Food BankProvides food support to families and people in need. Clients select the food they want, similar to shopping at a grocery store. In-person shopping is currently unavailable, however orders can be taken over the phone. The food bank is located at 220 Queen St. E. in St. Marys. Contact the Friendship Centre to arrange for Hamper Delivery. |
Housing Security |
Canadian Mental Health Association Huron & Perth: Housing Supports Program / Community Homes for Opportunity Program (CHO)The Housing Supports Program provides subsidized permanent rental housing, transitional housing, and assistance with housing searches and applications. CHO provides supportive housing with 24-hour supervision in a group home setting for individuals 18 years of age or older with serious mental health issues. Community Living St. Marys and Area - Share Your Home ProgramShare Your Home provides someone with developmental disabilities the opportunity to explore alternative living options, and increase their involvement in their community. Stratford Social ServicesProvides a range of programs and services to help residents access housing options that are affordable and meet their needs, situations, and choice. Provides applications for rent-geared-to-income housing. Contains the Perth and Stratford Housing Corporation which serves the Town of St. Marys, among other areas within Perth County. |
Mental Health and Addiction |
Alcoholics Anonymous - Stratford and AreaSupport group meetings follow the twelve steps to recovery to assist alcoholics in attaining and maintaining sobriety. Bereaved Families of Ontario - Southwest RegionBereavement support provided to parents and families following the death of a child at any age, including adult children and pregnancy loss, supports to children and youth who have experienced the death of a sibling or parent, support is based on self help/mutual aid and includes: one-to-one in person/telephone support, group meetings, community education regarding bereavement and its impact on families, guest speakers, lending library with books relevant to the grieving process and bereavement and special memorial events throughout the year. Canadian Mental Health Association Huron and PerthMental Health support services for persons 16 years of age or older. Provides case management, court support, release from custody, housing supports, peer support and family support. Choices for ChangeOffers supportive counselling for those who struggle with a wide variety of addiction concerns, such as alcohol, drugs, Internet and device use, and gambling. A resource for supports and information for family members and friends of individuals struggling with addiction. Offers virtual services during COVID-19. Family Services Perth-HuronNon-profit organization offering supportive counselling for individuals experiencing a variety of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and grief. Utilizes a sliding scale and includes funded programming for youth, seniors, business owners, caregivers. Offers virtual services during COVID-19. St. Marys Friendship CentreSocial inclusion is key factor in overall health and wellbeing. The Friendship Centre, located in the Pyramid Recreation Centre, offers programs support improving one mental health, by decreasing and building self esteem. Programs are targets for older adults, people recovering from illness or injury, and people with varying abilities but available for anyone 18+. No referral or membership needed. Friendship Centre Social Connections Call ProgramSign up for daily or weekly social or check in calls provided by volunteers. Telephone reassurance offers a great opportunity to Happy Valley Health TeamA multi-disciplinary health team serving the Town of St. Marys and the surrounding area consisting of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, a dietitian, a pharmacist, mental health counsellors, an addiction counsellor, and administrative supports. Huron Perth Centre for Children and YouthProvides assessment, counselling, and treatment services to children and youth up to age 18 and their families. Some adult services are provided to address issues that impact on children's mental health. Offers virtual services during COVID-19. Huron Perth Healthcare AllianceHuron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) offers a full range of Programs and Services at each of their four hospital sites (Clinton Public Hospital, St. Marys Memorial Hospital, Seaforth Community Hospital and Stratford General Hospital). Visit HPHA's website for a full list of services and programs. Some programs include inpatient psychiatric care for patients 16 years and older, and outpatient Mental Health Services Inpatient Psychiatry Phone: 1-519-272-8210 Ext. 2479 Huron Perth Helpline and Crisis Response TeamThe Huron Perth Helpline & Crisis Response Team is available to all residents of Huron and Perth Counties. This service is available for individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis. The Helpline is a 24 hour / 7 Days a week, crisis phone service with crisis assessments, brief crisis therapy and education regarding mental health and addiction services. Huron Perth Community Support Services NetworkThis is a Central Intake service offered by Community Support Providers in Huron and Perth. Services include, information about existing services, accessing new service, changing or cancelling current service. Huron-Perth Intensive Case ManagementIf you are not able to receive mental health support through existing community resources, Huron-Perth Intensive Case Management can provide this for you. Prevention and Early Interventions for PsychosesOffers assessment and treatment planning for people who re-experiencing their first episodes of psychosis. Southern Network of Specialized CareThe Southern Network of Specialized Care facilitates a unified network of cross-sectoral partners that offer individuals with a dual diagnoses, and their families, the highest quality of assessment, treatment and support. |
Health Services |
Blood Pressure ClinicsOccasional, free blood pressure checks are offered through the Friendship Centre. Friendship Centre Fitness ClassesFitness classes consist of exercise and falls prevention classes. Falls prevention classes are a free program funded by the LHIN. All physical fitness programs should be approved by your doctor. Friendship Centre Footcare Clinics
Foot care provided by a registered professional on a weekly basis. Registration is required for this service. Happy Valley Family Health TeamA multi-disciplinary health team serving the Town of St. Marys and the surrounding area consisting of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, dietitian, pharmacist, mental health counsellors, addiction counsellor, and administrative supports. Most services covered by OHIP. Huron Perth Community Support Services NetworkThis is a Central Intake service offered by Community Support Providers in Huron and Perth. Services include, information about existing services, accessing new service, changing or cancelling current service. Stratford Family Health TeamMedical health care team focused on family and community health. Team includes family doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, mental health practitioners and pharmacist. Most services are covered by OHIP. St. Marys Memorial HospitalAcute and complex continuing care hospital with emergency department. Provides diabetes education program, outpatient clinics, spiritual care, social work, and occupational therapy. Member of the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance. |
Recreation |
Access to Recreation GrantThe Town of St. Marys wants to reduce financial barriers to accessing recreation, leisure, arts, and culture activities. Through the Access to Recreation Grant, individuals and families can apply to receive up to $100 per person per year towards municipal programs or activities run by external organizations. Website: www.townofstmarys.com/recreationgrant Town of St. Marys Virtual ProgramsThe Town of St. Marys offers a wide variety of free virtual programs and resources. These programs are offered online and by telephone, and are appropriate for children and youth, adults and older adults. St. Marys MuseumThe St. Marys Museum offers weekly lectures through Zoom, and Tours, available on video through the Pyramid Recreation Centre Facebook page. St. Marys Pyramid Recreation Centre and Friendship CentreThe Pyramid Recreation Centre and Friendship Centre provide residents with a variety of virtual recreational programs and services, as well as limited in-person recreational opportunities until the conclusion of the pandemic. St. Marys QuarryThe St. Marys Quarry is Canada's largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool. Come out and enjoy a swim in this beautiful, natural setting. A variety of outdoor activities and services are offered including:
Address: 425 Water Street South, St. Marys St. Marys Parks and TrailsSt. Marys boasts over 25 kilometres of trails and parklands to help you enjoy the outside and experience walking, running, or biking amisdt this peacefull and beautiful area. Some trails include the Grand Trunk Trail, The Loop, and the Riverview Walkway. View our trail map or website for more information. St. Marys Public LibraryThe St. Marys Public Library provides free and equitable access to library services. In an effort to continue to offer our dynamic programs in a safe manner, the Town of St. Marys offers a wide variety of free virtual programs and resources. These programs are offered online and by telephone, and are appropriate for children and youth, adults and seniors. St. Marys Tennis and Pickleball CourtsTennis courts are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Social tennis nights with the St. Marys Tennis Club are open to all, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday nights from 7:00pm - 9:00pm. Players supply their own racquets and balls. Pickleball is available on two courts. Address: 550 Water St. S., St. Marys YMCA St. MarysLocated at the St Marys Wellness Centre, this is a space for physical activities and sports for residents of all ages and abilities. Membership or day passes available. |
Security & Safety |
Huron-Perth Children’s Aid SocietyInvestigates allegations of child abuse or neglect under the Child and Family Services Act, provides temporary or long-term care to children brought under care of the agency, provides supervision, counselling and group support to parents and families. Huron Perth Helpline & Crisis Response TeamA 24-hour crisis phone service. Provides crisis assessments, brief crisis therapy, and crisis education. Optimism PlaceProvides secure, protective shelter for women with or without children who have experienced abuse. Optimism place provides a wide range of free and confidential support services including but not limited to; in-shelter services, children support services, family court support and legal advocacy, and outreach services. Stratford Police ServicesStratford Police Services provides policing for the Town of St. Marys and has an office located in Town Hall (175 Queen Street East). A dedicated Community Resource Officer polices St. Marys and has a range of duties, including community relations, school relations and investigations. Victim Services of Perth CountyDedicated to providing short-term emotional support, practical assistance, and referrals to long-term services to victims of crime and tragic circumstances. Crisis responders are available immediately to respond to requests for assistance from police officers, emergency service providers, or self-referrals by attending on-site or by telephone. |
Senior Supports |
Alzheimer Society of Perth CountySupport, education, and information for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias as well as their care partners. Provides Minds in Motion program for physical activity and brain stimulation in community (currently offered virtually). All support, recreation, and meal programs are free apart from Minds in Motion. Family Services Perth-HuronSeniors/Persons with Physical Disabilities Program: Supports, education, counselling, caregiver information for seniors (55+) and caregivers living in Perth County. Residents with physical disabilities under the age of 55 may also qualify. Huron Perth Healthcare AllianceSeniors Mental Health Services: Offers assessment and treatment for older adults experiencing mental health challenges, cognitive impairment, and changes in behavior. No costs associated with this program. Home and Community Care Support Services Network (CSSN, Formerly the LHIN/ CCAC)Helps individuals and their families access health care supports at home or in the community through participating community support agencies. Residents can connect for inclusion on lists for long term care, to receive home care, or for the Adult Day Program. All LHIN supports are free of charge apart from the Adult Day Program and convalescent/respite care. |
Transportation |
Easy Ride TransportationSt. Marys & Area Mobility Services is a member of EasyRide, a transportation service shared by Community Support agencies across Huron and Perth counties. By teaming up and sharing our vehicles and drivers we are able to offer frequent and flexible service. The service provides accessible and volunteer transportation to medical appointments, adult day programs, social excursions, and local errands. Services are available for seniors, individuals recovering from illness or injury and those with varying abilities. Door-to-door service is available seven days a week and booking hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Address: 317 James St S, St. Marys ON PC ConnectPC Connect is a reliable, and affordable bus system that has been designed to provide residents with affordable transportation options within Perth County, and surrounding areas, including Stratford, St. Marys, Kitchener/Waterloo, and London. |
Veterans Supports |
Royal Canadian Legion St. Marys Branch 236National organization connected to both national and community-based resource networks to support veterans and their families for a variety of instrumental needs such as housing and food support, financial supports for mobility products and prosthetics, and connection to mental and physical health resources. Membership is open to Canadian and commonwealth military veterans, Canadian reserves members, and RCMP veterans for individuals who have an honourable discharge and have completed basic training, as well as to members of the general public. Please contact by phone for inquiries about membership and services that can be provided. |
Youth and Children's Services |
ShelterlinkAt Stratford Perth Shelterlink, their mission is to assist homeless youth (ages 16 to 24) and those at risk of becoming homeless. In addition to finding youth a warm safe bed, they are actively working with youth to assist them in their pursuits, through education and skills development supports. St. Marys Youth CentreThe Youth Centre is currently offering a variety of fun and engaging virtual programs through their Instagram page. Programs are ideal for Grades 3 -10. Town of St. Marys Child CareThe Town of St. Marys has provides quality childcare that is led by registered Early Childhood Educators and licensed by the the Ministry of Education. Programs include various services for children from infant to 12 years of age. Town of St. Marys EarlyON CentreThe Town of St. Marys EarlyON Centre offers a variety of free virtual programs for parents, caregivers and children ages zero to six years. These play-based and interactive programs are a great opportunity for you and your family to explore, learn and create connections within the community. Virtual programs are offered through Instagram and Facebook. Canadian Tire Jump Start ProgramJumpStart is a community-based charitable program that helps kids in need participate in organized sports and recreational activities. For details please contact Guest Services at the Pyramid Recreation Centre. |
Looking for something else? Visit one of the following websites for additional resources:
211 Ontario |
| Phone: 2-1-1 Toll-free: 1-877-330-3213 TTY: 855-405-7446 Emergencies: 9-1-1 Contact 211 by Email Contact 211 by Live Chat www.211ontario.ca |
Southwest Healthline |
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Toll Free: 1-800-811-5146 |
Meet our Community Outreach Worker
Brittany Petrie, M.S.W., R.S.W.
Community Outreach Worker for the Town of St. Marys
Phone: 226-261-0098
Contact by email
Position proudly supported by:
Location/Hours
The Community Outreach Worker will be available for drop-in support on Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the St. Marys Public Library and Fridays from 1:00 to 4:30 pm at the St. Marys Friendship Centre.
If you have questions or require assistance from the Community Outreach Worker, please contact her as noted above.
| What is a Community Outreach Worker? |
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The Community Outreach Worker offers facilitation, education and referrals for residents who require socio-economic support. Duties of the Community Outreach Worker include, but are not limited to:
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Wellbeing Videos
Stonetown Supports has series of videos that can help you improve your wellbeing, visit our YouTube channel to watch!
Frequently Asked Questions
| I think someone needs help, how can I help them? |
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Let them know about Stonetown Supports so they can see all of the resources available to them or contact our Community Outreach Worker. They may be able to provide you with some guidance or reach out to the individual that is suspected of needing some assistance. |
| How can I show compassion to someone with a mental illness? |
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As unique as each person is, so is mental illness. You never know what someone may be struggling with, so first and foremost, always be kind.
This is not meant to replace the advice of social workers or medical professionals. If you find yourself unsure of how to deal with someone in our vulnerable population, please contact our Community Outreach Worker or encourage them to seek assistance from one of the many resources available to our community. |
| How often do people need mental health care? |
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It is not uncommon for someone you care about to be in need of mental health care. Help them by educating yourself by visiting the Canadian Mental Health Association to learn more. |
Have a Suggestion for Stonetown Supports?
We recognize that the wellbeing needs of St. Marys residents are always changing and evolving, hence we are continuously collecting resources and growing this program. If you are aware of a service that is not currently included in our Stonetown Supports Program, please let us know by filling out this form. Please note this form is not a tool for seeking assistance.