Province to put health centres in ‘at-risk’ areas

Some of Toronto’s most vulnerable neighbourhoods are gaining new community health centres under a threeyear, $ 74.6 million expansion of services by the province.

Health Minister George Smitherman yesterday announced 22 new community health centres and 17 smaller satellite clinics across the province.

“ Health care is about more than treating illness, it’s also about addressing the underlying conditions that contribute to healthy lives and healthy communities,” Smitherman said in a statement. “ Community health centres are one of the best vehicles for doing that.” One new centre — which includes doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, counsellors and dietitians — will open in the next year in Malvern.

So- called satellite branches will open over the next few years in Jane- Finch, the Junction, Jamestown, Don MillsFinch, Weston- Mount Dennis, Malton, York Centre and Crescent Town.

“ These new centres will become an integral part of our neighbourhoods, bringing vital services and people together,” said Children and Youth Services Minister Mary AnneChambers in a statement.

“ The establishment of ( centres) in atrisk neighbourhoods will help provide much-needed supports for youth, young children and their families.” Chambers and Smitherman made the announcement flanked by city councillor Bas Balkissoon ( Ward 41, ScarboroughRouge River), the Liberal candidate in the Nov. 24 Scarborough- Rouge River by- election.