Hamilton is losing another social services agency

Published March 22, 2023 at 11:54 am

Three social service agencies in as many months have closed up in Hamilton, with the latest being the Elizabeth Fry Society–Southern Ontario Region.

The organization offers free supports to women who are in conflict with the law, and has done that for more than a half-century in Hamilton. But a social media post on Monday said “concerns about the ongoing viability of the organization” have led to a decision to shut down at the end of next week on March 31.

“This was a very difficult decision to make and we remain committed to minimizing disruptions of service to our clients and stakeholders,” a message posted to Instagram reads.

“Our commitment to clients remains steadfast and we will do our part to assist and support other agencies to provide quality service to our clients after the closure.”

Catholic Family Services of Hamilton and Hamilton Mental Health Outreach have also announced that they are closing. Both said they are planning to help clients find services elsewhere.

Organizations that provide social services usually get funding from charity partners, municipalities, and the Ontario government. For instance, the Elizabeth Fry Society branch, per its website, draws funding from the two provincial departments (Children, Community and Social Services, and the Solicitor General). It also draws funding from the City Of Hamilton, the Hamilton Community Foundation, and the United Way of Halton and Hamilton.