Local youth in Brampton help to design new Wellness Centre

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement in a press release issued on Monday, January 27^th, 2025, by the City of Brampton of a new Youth Wellness Hub in Brampton is exciting news for youth. It will add to the network of 22 hubs that have been established in Ontario since 2020 and will culminate in a total of 22. They provide a range of services geared to youth and families which include mental health, substance abuse and wellness. The press release notes that the diverse services provided will create a comprehensive support system that will serve as a multi-use hub for youth and families in Brampton.

There were additional details about the new Youth Wellness hub in the press release. The conception and design of it results from consultation with local youth and youth service providers. Some aspects of the design include:

• Construction of a new 12,500 square-foot building with youth-centric design
• Features such as: games and e-sports areas, creative spaces, meeting rooms and spaces for organizations to deliver a variety of services to youth and more
• Outdoor amenities including: an amphitheatre, community gardens, a basketball court and the Atiba Hutchinson Soccer Court
• A new public installation by a professional, Ontario-based Indigenous-identifying artist, or artist group under the age of 29 years old

There have been several endorsements of this project by civic leaders and other officials. Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton states, “Home to more than 153,000 youth aged 14 to 29 years old, the City of Brampton is dedicated to building a brighter future for our young people through compassion and innovation. This partnership with Peel Children’s Aid Society embodies a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of youth in our community. By creating a space that integrates mental health services, recreational opportunities and educational support, we are ensuring that every young person has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

“TThe construction of the Century Garden Hubs in Brampton is truly needed.”

MPP Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity states, “The establishment of the new Youth Wellness Hub in Brampton is a milestone in supporting the mental health of young people in our community. As a local MPP, I am thrilled to see it come to life. This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring our youth have access to culturally responsive, accessible services, empowering them to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and thrive. Our government is proud to support projects that foster resilience, inclusivity, and wellness for the next generation.”

MPP Graham McGregor, Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform states, “This project is about more than just a building; it’s about giving youth in our community the tools to live happier, healthier lives. This was a huge need in our community, and I want to thank our partners, the City of Brampton, and Peel Children’s Aid Society for their collaboration and commitment to making this hub a reality.”

Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5, Chair of Community Services for the City of Brampton states, “It is an honour to work with all partners. When a young person walks into our Century Gardens Youth Hub for recreation programs, or to just hang out, they will also have access to critical mental health support should they need it. This collaborative approach is an example of what we can achieve together for our youth, providing them with the wraparound support and opportunities they need to succeed.”