Town launches Stonetown Supports Report

New feature aims to reduce stigma through education

The Town of St. Marys is launching a new feature to inform residents about its progress on addressing social issues.

The Stonetown Supports Report is a bi-monthly community update designed to build awareness about the many social services available in St. Marys. Through education, the Town hopes to reduce stigma and shine a light on the ways we can help our neighbours. 

The first edition is available below and in this week's St. Marys Independent Newspaper. Each edition will include information about trending topics and issues in our community. Topics are suggested by Brittany Petrie, the Town’s Community Outreach Worker, based on her interactions and observations. This month’s edition addresses local transportation options, the new Community Closet and mental health training for Town staff.

You can subscribe to receive each edition of the Stonetown Supports Report directly to your email. Future editions will also appear on the Stonetown Supports page on our website. Questions about the report can be directed to Brittany Petrie, Community Outreach Worker at bpetrie@town.stmarys.on.ca or 226-261-0098.

Read on for the first edition of the report.

Stonetown Supports Report

Edition #1 | October 10, 2023

Transportation

Transportation within and beyond St. Marys is a barrier to individuals who don’t have a vehicle and need to attend appointments to access social services.

PC Connect – Perth County’s bus system – is currently the only public transportation in St. Marys, aside from VIA Rail and GO. Council recently voted to ensure PC Connect remains operational in Town until 2025; they have also asked staff to investigate other options for public transportation.

In the meantime, the Town has resources to support those relying on PC Connect. Please contact Brittany Petrie, the Town’s Community Outreach Worker for details (contact information below).

Community Closet 

A group of dedicated volunteers have officially launched St. Marys Community Closet. Operating out of St. James Anglican Church, the closet offers new or gently used clothing, outerwear, and footwear at no cost. Shopping hours are every other Monday and the first and third Thursday of each month from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., and every other Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Monday hours coincide with St. Marys Community Meals, offered across the street at St. Marys United Church, by donation. The Nourish Market also runs the first and third Thursday of every month from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the United Church. The market offers fresh local vegetables, fruit, and unprocessed meat at wholesale prices.

For more information, visit St. Marys Community Closet on Facebook, email stmaryscommunitycloset@gmail.com or call 226-261-0098. For emergency clothing assistance, contact Brittany Petrie, the Town’s Community Outreach Worker (contact information below).

Staff Training

The Town is offering training to staff on how to support individuals who are struggling with their mental health and where to direct them for assistance. Staff are also receiving mental health training to enhance their understanding of the types of challenges people may be living with.

More information about local mental health services is available on our website: www.townofstmarys.com/stonetownsupports. If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support, please contact the Huron Perth Helpline and Crisis Response Team: 1-888-8829-7484.

Additional Information & Resources

If you have questions or concerns about any of the topics listed above, or need support, please contact Brittany Petrie, Community Outreach Worker at bpetrie@town.stmarys.on.ca or 226-261-0098.

For a comprehensive list of social services available in St. Marys, visit the Stonetown Supports page on our website (www.townofstmarys.com/stonetownsupports).

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For media inquiries:

Brett O’Reilly | Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | boreilly@town.stmarys.on.ca