Find Physical & Mental Health Services in Southern Ontario through the Connections Program

Connections Program

Mental and physical health challenges can be a significant barrier to a successful transition from care so Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada is supporting the Connections Program. 

How does it work? 

The Connections Program’s nurse navigator meets with young people, conducts a wellness assessment and creates a customized care plan that assists young people to get the help they need within a short time period. Through established partnerships, the navigator identifies appropriate mental health experts and services available in the community and helps remove any barriers for young people in accessing these services, ultimately facilitating a smooth transition to adult services. 

What type of support is offered? 

Based on the needs of each young person, the types of support could include: 

- Funding for Short-Term Counselling/Psychotherapy

- Comprehensive assessment by in-house primary care physician and psychiatrist 

- Cognitive/Educational Assessments 

- Wellness Workshops offered through Pape Adolescent Resource Centre

- General system navigation and referrals to established community services and partners 

- Disability Support Services Referral (i.e. ODSP or DSO referral) 

- Primary Care Referrals 

- Mental Health Medication cost coverage 

- Integrated wraparound services provided by the program’s mental health navigator in partnership youth workers from the Pape Adolescent Resource Centre 

Who’s eligible? 

Young people are eligible for the Connections program if they are; 

In extended society care, or former extended society care 

Between the ages of 18 – 29 

Reside in the Greater Toronto Area (referrals will be considered on a case by case basis for young people who live outside of the GTA). - *We now provide services throughout Southern Ontario virtually.  

How to I apply? 

For more information, please contact the Pape Adolescent Resource Centre at (416) 462-1010. For a referral form, please click here. Additional information can also be found through https://www.connectionsprogram.net/