Located at 64 Lindsay Street South in Lindsay, A Place Called Home (APCH) offers emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness and a daily drop-in service for people at risk of homelessness in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County. (Photo: APCH)
A Place Called Home (APCH) in Lindsay is marking three decades of providing homelessness services supports in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County by hosting a special community event on World Homeless Day in October.
The emergency housing shelter is inviting community members to gather on Friday, October 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, located at 40 William St. N. in Lindsay, for a 30th anniversary celebration.
“This special event brings together friends, neighbours, and changemakers to reflect on the journey so far and recommit to building a future where everyone has a safe place to call home,” reads a statement from APCH.
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The evening will feature guest speaker longtime Toronto city councillor and housing advocate Joe Mihevc, who will share insights and inspiration drawn from decades of public service. There will also be a performance by the Kawartha Lakes Brass Ensemble, and light refreshments will be served by Board And Nibble Catering Co.
Those who are unable to attend but who would still like to support APCH can donate to the “30 For 30” fundraising campaign at www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/13431.
APCH will officially launch the campaign during the 30th anniversary event on World Homeless Day, with the goal of raising $30,000.
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According to APCH, more and more low-income individuals and families are at risk of homelessness because of rising inflation and escalating rental costs. APCH executive director Angela Ricciuti and fund development coordinator Jen Lopinski shared with kawarthaNOW how the $30,000 will support the non-profit organization.
“Fundraised dollars will go towards advancement of our strategic planning goals, upkeep of equipment, unexpected costs related to our shelter and programs, and to address individual client needs,” they said.
In December 2024, APCH received approval from the City of Kawartha Lakes to extend its capacity of emergency shelter spaces from 19 to 30. APCH was able to find the space within its current building to accommodate the expansion. When the shelter was rebuilt during the pandemic, its square footage increased, as has its needs in recent years.
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Looking to the colder months ahead, Ricciuti and Lopinski noted the organization will “continue to operate at our new 30 bed capacity and plans for winter will be confirmed in October.”
As well as providing emergency shelter to those experiencing homelessness, APCH provides drop-in services for those at risk of homelessness. Clients can access shower, laundry, and bathroom facilities, receive one meal a day, and work with staff to build a housing plan designed to lead to improved housing stability.
The roots of the organization go back to 1991, when a transitional housing group in Lindsay met for the first time. The following year, the group changed its name to “A Place Called Home” and worked on a plan to house homeless people as quickly as possible.
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Incorporated as a registered charity in 1993, A Place Called Home worked over the next two years to secure a location and obtain funding to open a transition house in January 1995. The current 30-bed shelter at 64 Lindsay Street South in Lindsay opened in 2022.
Meanwhile, World Homeless Day is observed internationally on the 10th of October every year. The day serves as a platform to celebrate good works, benchmark progress, advocate for improved policies and funding that can help prevent and end homelessness.
World Homeless Day also aims to raise awareness about the needs of people who currently experience homelessness and promote work in local communities to alleviate suffering and prevent death.
A pickup truck crosses the single-lane bridge on McFarlane Street via Ashburnham Drive on October 31, 2020. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Parks Canada will be closing the McFarlane Street Bridge in Peterborough for redecking during the second week of October.
The single-lane bridge across the Trent Canal connects Armour Road in East City with Ashburnham Drive.
According to a media release from Parks Canada, the bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians from 7 a.m. on Monday, October 6 until 7 p.m. on Friday, October 10.
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Detour signage will be posted a week in advance if the closure.
The McFarlane Street Bridge is one of only five access points into East City. Other access points are Armour Road via Parkhill Road East to the north, Hunter Street East from the east via the Lift Lock tunnel off Ashburnham Drive or from the west via the Hunter Street bridge, and Maria Street off Ashburnham Drive to the south.
Navigation on the Trent Canal will remain unaffected by the bridge closure.
“Parks Canada would like to thank community members and visitors for their patience and understanding,” reads the media release.
Following seven months of concerns raised by neighbouring residents and businesses about drug paraphernalia, swearing, fights, and people urinating on their properties, Northumberland County decided to close the warming/cooling hub at the "modernized" homeless shelter at 310 Division Street in downtown Cobourg as of July 4, 2025. The location offered a low-barrier place for people to rest and access an accessible shower and washroom, laundry facilities, and storage lockers for personal belongings. (Photo: Northumberland County)
Northumberland County has had “productive discussions” with community members about a new location for a warming centre to provide people with respite from the cold when the temperature drops in the months ahead.
The county is seeking a new space to offer winter warming room services after the decision was made in June to close the warming room and cooling centre located in the homeless shelter at 310 Division Street in downtown Cobourg.
Since then, the county has been encouraging owners of facilities located outside of the Town of Cobourg to reach out if they have spaces they’re willing to rent.
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“Since receiving council direction in June, the county has been actively exploring opportunities for set-up of a temporary winter warming space,” Kate Campbell, Northumberland County’s director of communications, told kawarthaNOW.
“Staff have had productive discussions with a couple of locations,” she noted. “We are hopeful this will lead to the announcement of a service in the coming weeks.”
The county reached out to property owners seeking space to rent for use as a temporary overnight winter warming room from October 2025 through April 2026. The service would operate during overnight hours, providing people experiencing homelessness with respite from the cold during the fall and winter months, and access to seating, washrooms, and light refreshments.
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The decision to close the Division Street warming and cooling centre followed seven months of concerns raised by neighbouring residents and businesses after the low-barrier shelter, which is owned by Northumberland County and operated by Transition House, opened in December 2024.
The county is in the process of transitioning 310 Division Street into a higher-barrier, clean-living facility.
County council asked staff to look for locations outside of Cobourg for the warming centre.
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In addition, council requested staff report back “with options for permanently relocating the 24/7 warming and cooling hub drop-in centre to another neighbourhood within Northumberland County that is outside of the Town of Cobourg, unless located on Northumberland County or hospital property,” Campbell said.
While both Northumberland Hills Hospital and homelessness support services are based in Cobourg, which is the most urban location in Northumberland County, council advised staff to look to another community to house the warming room — which would mean unhoused people in Cobourg would need to be transported to the out-of-town location.
“Transportation plans would be a key consideration with respect to any facilities identified,” Campbell noted in an earlier interview.
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The county has been seeking a space that meets the minimum requirements listed below.
Facility access for an overnight period of approximately 12 hours, seven nights per week, October 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026
Capacity to accommodate 30 individuals (clients and staff)
Access to washroom facilities
Is heated
Has on-site parking
Preferably includes access to an internet connection to support service delivery
Located outside the Town of Cobourg
A final location will be subject to approval by county council.
Property owners who are interested and need further information can email the county’s community and social services department at warmingroomspace@northumberland.ca or call Bill Smith, homelessness services manager, at 905-372-3329 ext. 2314.
Kawartha Lakes Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating a death in Bobcaygeon on Saturday night (September 27).
Officers were called to the Bobcaygeon Agriculture Park on Mansfield Street around 9:18 p.m., where one person was found dead.
People on social media on Saturday night asked about the number of police vehicles heading towards the park, leading to speculation there was an incident at Bobcaygeon-Verulam Community Centre, where the annual Bobcaygeon Fall Fair was wrapping up with a dance. However, one person who attended the dance indicated there was no incident and another person claimed the incident happened at the Bobcaygeon Trailer Park.
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Police have not provided any details about where the dead person was found, their identity, or the cause of death.
“While the cause of death cannot yet be confirmed, investigators believe there is no imminent threat to public safety, although the OPP reminds all members of the public to be aware of their personal safety at all times,” reads a media release from Kawartha Lakes OPP.
Police say the death is being investigated by the Kawartha Lakes OPP Crime Unit, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch.
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“The investigation is in its early stages, and no further details can be released at this time,” reads the media release.
“Residents of the area should expect to see an increased police presence.”
Police are asking anyone with any information that may assist the investigation to contact the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
A float during the Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025 includes the Pride Week theme of "All of Us or None," which reflects the challenges facing the global 2SLGBTQIA+ community with the rise of anti-trans legislation, the banning of 2SLGBTQIA+ books in schools and libraries, and the withdrawal of public support by some organizations and businesses for progressive causes. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)
With this year’s Pride Week drawing to a close, members of Peterborough-Nogojiwanong’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies celebrated diversity and inclusivity during the annual Pride parade on Saturday afternoon (September 27) in downtown Peterborough.
The parade began at City Hall and travelled down George Street to Millennium Park, where the annual Pride in the Park celebration took place.
The theme of this year’s Pride Week is “All of Us or None” which, according to the Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride website, was submitted by a local queer trans activist who described it as a refusal to give in to hatred and a reminder that action, solidarity, and collective care are essential.
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“All of Us or None speaks to the interconnectedness of our struggles and our liberation,” the Peterborough Pride website states. “It reminds us that true progress doesn’t happen unless it includes everyone — especially those most often pushed to the margins. When any part of our community is under attack, we are all called to respond. None of us are free until all of us are free.”
The theme reflects the challenging times facing members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, with the rise of anti-trans legislation, the banning of 2SLGBTQIA+ books in schools and libraries, and the withdrawal of public support by some organizations and businesses for progressive causes.
In what has become an annual tradition, Peterborough photographer Sean Bruce took photos of this year’s parade and shared several of them with kawarthaNOW.
The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)
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The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)
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The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)
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The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)The annual Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Parade on September 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Sean Bruce)
A 69-year-old Hastings man is dead after a single motorcycle collision on County Road 2 just south of Peterborough late Friday afternoon (September 27).
At around 5:20 p.m., Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Peterborough Fire Services, and Peterborough County-City Paramedics responded to a report of an individual who appeared to have been thrown from a motorcycle on County Road 2 near Bensfort Road.
The motorcyclist, a 69-year-old man from Hastings, was pronounced dead at the scene after resuscitation efforts failed.
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A section of County Road 2 was closed for several hours while emergency crews and investigators cleared and documented the scene.
On social media, Peterborough County OPP thanked bystanders who provided assistance at the scene.
Police are continuing to investigate the collision. Anyone with information or video footage of the incident who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact the Peterborough County OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
Elmhirst's Resort on Rice Lake in Keene has launched the North Shore Wine Society to celebrate Ontario wine and to make learning about local agriculture and viticulture more approachable. The free membership includes quarterly e-newsletters featuring reviews from wine writer Leah Spooner, a wine education column, and farm-to-table food features, as well as exclusive ticket access to seasonal lakeside dinners hosted by Elmhirst's Resort general manager and wine aficionado Greg Elmhirst (pictured, left). The next dinner event, The Hunter Dinner, is scheduled for November 1, 2025 and will include a four-course meal from Chef Amber Bissonnette and a wine pairing from Spooner. (Photo courtesy of Elmhirst's Resort)
Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene has launched a passion project devoted to making Ontario wines more approachable. Combining expert viticulture knowledge, food that celebrates local agriculture, and the joy of connecting over seasonal tastes, the free-to-join North Shore Wine Society celebrates the bounty of the land.
Sitting on the shores of Rice Lake, Elmhirst’s Resort is a family owned and operated cottage resort featuring farm-to-table lakeside dining that’s open to the public for three meals per day year-round. The resort is now managed by fourth-generation owner Greg Elmhirst, who has a deep passion for wine and has developed VQA wine tastings for both beginner and experienced wine enthusiasts for more than 20 years.
“One of my most important goals when I conduct wine tastings at Elmhirst’s Resort is to break down wine barriers and help participants find wine joy,” Greg says. “The North Shore Wine Society is an extension of that goal, opening our ongoing wine conversation beyond our resort guests to the broader community around us.”
By registering for free, members of the North Shore Wine Society will receive a quarterly e-newsletter delivered straight to their inbox. Each edition features a wine review from Leah Spooner, a wine writer who has become a leading advocate for the Canadian wine revolution, as well as an accessible wine education column written by Greg. The newsletters also include farm-to-table food features from the chefs at Elmhirst’s Resort, as well as Ontario winery and craft producer profiles.
Greg Elmhirst, general manager and fourth-generation family owner of Elmhirst’s Resort, has a deep passion for wine and has been hosting VQA wine tastings for guests for more than 20 years. He is the author of an approachable wine education column in the quarterly e-newsletter delivered to members of the resort’s free-to-join North Shore Wine Society and hosts lakeside farm-to-table dinners in partnership with wine writer Leah Spooner. (Photo courtesy of Elmhirst’s Resort)
In addition to the e-newsletter, North Shore Wine Society members will also have exclusive ticket access to limited-seating curated dinners at Elmhirst’s Resort throughout the year.
Following the success of the inaugural Summer Fresh Dinner in June, the next North Shore Wine Society event is The Hunter Dinner on Saturday, November 1 at 6 p.m. Led by Chef Amber Bissonnette, who uses her visual art experience to add a flair that makes her dishes look as appealing as they taste, the Hunter Dinner will highlight the best of the fall season and explore Ontario’s history of fish and game.
After hors d’oeuvres, a spiced plum and walnut salad will begin the four-course meal, and will be followed by quail torchon, a dish stuffed with figs, wrapped in prosciutto, and served in a nest of linguine. Then, a Frenched venison chop served au jus with sautéed mushrooms, roasted sweet potatoes, and bacon-roasted Brussel sprouts will be served before a dessert of pumpkin pie.
As with all North Shore Wine Society dinners held throughout the year, the November 1st dinner will be hosted by Greg and will include a wine pairing selected by Leah. Registration is now open to the public and will include sign-up for the North Shore Wine Society. Future dinner events include Cozy by Fire on Saturday, March 7 and The Elevated BBQ on Friday, May 8.
Know Your Locals™ is a branded editorial feature about locally owned independent businesses and locally operated organizations, and supported by them. If your business or organization is interested in being featured in a future “Know Your Locals” branded editorial, contact Jeannine Taylor at 705-742-6404 or jt@kawarthanow.com or visit our Advertise with kawarthaNOW page.
Soap bubbles helped celebrate the United Way Peterborough & District's official launch of its 2025-26 community campaign on September 25, 2025 at the Healthy Planet Arena, where the organization unveiled its $1.6 million campaign goal. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
The United Way Peterborough & District has officially launched its 2025-26 community campaign with the theme “Building Community, Changing Lives” and an ambitious goal of raising $1.6 million.
The official launch took place at noon on Thursday (September 25) at a fundraising event at the Healthy Planet Arena in Peterborough that included a catered lunch. According to a media release from the United Way, the event broke records with its highest ticket sales in years.
“This incredible turnout demonstrated the enthusiasm across Peterborough and the county for the work that we do together,” said United Way CEO Jim Russell. “The dollars raised through this campaign directly support frontline non-profits and ensure vital services are available to those who need them most, from food security and housing to mental health supports and education.”
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At the launch event, the United Way revealed its $1.6 million campaign goal, which is $100,000 more than last year’s goal of $1.5 million — a goal the organization met for the first time in over 10 years and then exceeded.
“With strong early momentum, record-breaking launch attendance, and innovative new initiatives, the United Way is confident the community will once again rise to the challenge,” the release states.
One of those new initiatives is The United Way Ultimate Burger Battle, running during the month of November, where local restaurants will compete to craft the “Ultimate Burger,” with $2 from every burger sold supporting United Way programs. The event has already been proven to be a successful fundraiser for other United Way affiliates across Canada.
United Way Peterborough & District CEO Jim Russell laughs as 2025-26 campaign chair Paul Rellinger speaks at the podium during the official launch of the United Way’s 2025-26 community campaign on September 25, 2025 at the Healthy Planet Arena. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
Another new initiative is monthly 50/50 draws, held entirely online to make it easy to participate, with the first draw scheduled to take place on Friday, October 31.
Thursday’s launch event also highlighted the importance of individual workplace campaigns to the success of the United Way’s annual campaign.
GM Financial in Peterborough shared the success of their workplace campaign last year, which raised $38,795 for the United Way including through fun events such as Jeopardy, and capped it off with a surprise performance by one of their staff members, local drag artist Miss Divalicious, demonstrating how a little creativity and a lot of joy can be powerful drivers of fundraising.
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“These events highlighted how our community is coming together in innovative ways,” said the United Way’s 2025-26 campaign chair Paul Rellinger, who himself has supported the United Way for many years, most notably by organizing five annual Peterborough Performs: Musicians United To End Homelessness benefit concerts that have raised almost $150,000, with the latest concert this past March raising a record amount of $36,375.
“Fundraising can be inspiring and energizing, but what matters most is the impact: every dollar raised helps to improve lives right here in our community,” he added.
“And when we say community, we mean both the city of Peterborough and the county, because many of the partner agencies we fund serve residents across our entire region. The dollars raised here, stay here, supporting programs and services that our neighbours rely on every single day.”
The United Way Peterborough & District unveiled its 2025-26 community campaign goal of $1.6 million during the campaign’s official launch on September 25, 2025 at the Healthy Planet Arena. (Photo: Jordan Lylall Photography)
Funds raised through United Way support critical services across the city and county of Peterborough, addressing key socioeconomic and health issues including food insecurity, housing, mental health, and other essential needs.
The $1.51 million raised during last year’s campaign meant 234,042 meals were provided, more than 450 students received essential school supplies, and 28,125 social inclusion and wellness checks were made for vulnerable residents.
For more information about the United Way Peterborough & District and to donate, visit www.uwpeterborough.ca.
United Way Peterborough & District’s 2025-26 campaign chair Paul Rellinger (middle) helps promote the new Ultimate Burger Battle fundraising intiative announced during the official launch of the United Way’s 2025-26 community campaign on September 25, 2025 at the Healthy Planet Arena in Peterborough. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)Local drag artist Miss Divalicious gave a surprise performance during the United Way Peterborough & District’s official launch of its 2025-26 community campaign on September 25, 2025 at the Healthy Planet Arena. Miss Divalicious is a staff member at GM Financial, which raised $38,795 for the United Way during the company’s workplace campaign last year. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith, Peterborough police chief Stuart Betts, Peterborough County OPP inspector and detachment commander Chris Galleazza, and representatives from Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) and the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) gathered at the Peterborough police station on September 26, 2025 for an announcement of $426,860.34 in funding over the next two years under the province's Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) Enhancement Grant. (Photo: Peterborough Police Service)
The Ontario government is providing $426,860.34 in funding to support Peterborough region police providing specialized support to people who experience a mental health or addictions crisis.
Both the Peterborough Police Service and the Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are receiving funding over the next two years under the province’s Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) Enhancement Grant, with the Peterborough Police Service receiving $240,000 and the Peterborough County OPP receiving $186,860.34.
The funding was announced at a media event on Friday (September 26) at the Peterborough police station, attended by Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith, Peterborough police chief Stuart Betts, Peterborough County OPP inspector and detachment commander Chris Galleazza, and representatives from Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) and the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR).
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Friday’s announcement follows a provincial announcement on September 12 of $9 million in funding under the MCRT Enhancement to 36 police services and OPP detachments across Ontario in 2025-2026 and 2026-27.
Along with the funding for Peterborough Police Service and Peterborough County OPP, that announcement also included $239,933 for the Northumberland OPP.
Mobile crisis response teams consist of police officers and crisis workers working together to respond to complex situations where mental health or addictions may be a factor. Supported by the police, crisis workers can assess if a person should be sent to an emergency department for immediate treatment or whether a referral is needed to community programs that support mental and physical well-being.
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The $240,000 in funding for the Peterborough Police Service will allow for the re-establishment a Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) with PRHC, consisting a registered practical nurse and a qualified officer. The team will be embedded within the police service and provide immediate and follow-up responses to those experiencing mental health and addiction crises.
An MCIT partnership with PRHC originally began in November 2022, but was only funded by a provincial grant until March 31, 2023.
The origins of the Peterborough Police Service’s first MCIT go back to 2011, when a CMHA HKPR outreach worker began working out of the Peterborough police station. The outreach worker rode along with police officers, attending mental health calls and following up on the calls. The MCIT was born in 2018 when a police officer was added to the unit.
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A second MCIT partnership with CMHA HKPR was supported by surplus funds re-allocated by the City of Peterborough in the Peterborough Police Service’s 2021 budget. The funding to CMHA HKPR was renewed in 2024 for an additional two years.
CMHA HKPR also participates in MCIT’s with OPP detachments in Peterborough County, the City of Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton County, in addition to its team with the Peterborough Police Service.
According to the Peterborough Police Service, officers responded to 3,140 mental health and addictions occurrences between January 2022 and December 2024 — a 38 per cent increase over the previous three years.
Participants walk to the Gdinuhwendimin "We Are Related" Friendship Garden at Bobcaygeon Beach Park following a Remembrance Ceremony held by the Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon and the Mishkoden Centre for Indigenous Knowledge at Boyd Heritage Museum on September 30, 2024. (Photo: John MacLennan)
With Tuesday (September 30) marking the fifth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, communities across the greater Kawarthas region will be honouring and recognizing the Indigenous victims and survivors of Canada’s residential schools, as well as their families and communities. It is also a day for Canadians to educate themselves about the heritage, culture, stories, and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
The federal statutory holiday was created in 2021 to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 2015 “94 Calls to Action.” These polices outline recommendations for acknowledging the horrifying history of the school system and advancing the process of reconciliation.
The date aligns with Orange Shirt Day, a day that has been commemorated since 2013 when Phyllis Webstad of Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation shared her experience of attending a residential school in B.C. in 1973. When she first arrived at the school as a six-year-old child, she was stripped of her new orange shirt by school authorities and it was never returned.
For most of her life, Webstad was unable to wear orange as it would remind her of the terrifying experiences she had at the school but, after Webstad shared her story as a survivor and eventually founded the Orange Shirt Society, the orange shirt has come to symbolize the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem that many Indigenous children experienced.
Community members are invited to wear orange when participating in the following activities taking place across the greater Kawarthas region before or on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
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Learn about wild rice at the sixth Annual Mnoominkewin Gathering at Curve Lake First Nation
Sarain Fox and her daughter Maamaatesiinh planting Mnoomin (wild rice) during the 2022 Mnoominkewin Gathering. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens of Red Works Photography)
On Saturday (September 27) the Mnoominkewin Wild Rice Festival is presenting the sixth annual Mnoominkewin Gathering, a day-long event beginning at 7 a.m. at Curve Lake First Nation’s Lime Kiln Park.
This free family-friendly celebration of mnoominkewin (wild rice) will kick off with a sunrise ceremony before launching into an afternoon of keynote addresses and talks from Winona Laduke, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Chandra Maracle, and Rick Hill.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn to plant, gather, and process Mnoomin into food, as well as partake in kids’ activities, Anishnaabemowin language lessons, art demos, pontoon boat rides, round dances, and community meals by Shawn Adler.
For more information, to register, and to see the full schedule, visit mnoominkewin.com.
Make Orange Shirt Day crafts at the Haliburton County, Peterborough, and Kawartha Lakes libraries
VIDEO: “On Orange Shirt Day” by Phyllis Webstad
Residents of Haliburton County can drop in to any library branch until Saturday (September 27) to participate in the free drop-in “Hearts & Hands” craft station. To symbolize your commitment to reconciliation and learning, write or draw a message of reflection on an orange paper heart or trace your handprint and add it to a wall display.
In Peterborough, children can create origami orange shirts and decorate the Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer Street). There will be two shirt designs available to choose from during library open hours until Monday (September 29). Adults are invited to reflect on and record one actional intention of truth and reconciliation they will work towards.
Drop in to any Kawartha Lakes library branch during open hours on Saturday (September 27) and Tuesday (September 30) to make your own bookmark in honour of survivors and in remembrance of those impacted by residential schools.
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“Canindian: A Celebration of Truth and a Celebration of Reconciliation with Tom Jackson and Friends” at Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre
VIDEO: “Lost Souls” by Tom Jackson (2021)
The Municipality of Port Hope will honour Indigenous culture, history, and healing with an evening of song, storytelling, and performances from Tom Jackson and local Indigenous leaders at the Capitol Theatre (20 Queen St.) beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday (September 30)
Jackson is an accomplished actor, musician, and activist with Cree roots known for television roles in North of 60, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Law & Order, and Sullivan’s Crossing and roles in films including Cold Pursuit, Deadfall, Mee-Shee: The Water Giant, and Grizzly Falls.
The event will include traditional drumming and dancing and feature a vendors’ market with jewelry, scarves, moccasins, and paintings available for purchase.
Admission is free but $30 donations are suggested, with all proceeds supporting the Rice Lake Legal Personhood initiative. Jackson will be matching up to $5,000 in donations.
Gathering for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day in Peterborough
Join the Peterborough Urban Indigenous Working Group for a family-friendly gathering on Armour Hill at the Peterborough Museum and Archives (300 Hunter St E.) on Tuesday (September 30). Everyone is welcome to attend.
The rain-or-shine event will begin with a sunrise ceremony at 7 a.m. and will include opening remarks from Elders, guest speakers, cultural teachings, and reflections. The gathering will continue until 1 p.m. with children’s activities, door prizes, a round dance, storytelling, traditional music, a sacred fire, and more.
In honour of Orange Shirt Day, participants are encouraged to wear an orange shirt as a visible sign of solidarity and to help spark important conversations about the ongoing impacts of the residential school system.
Parking at the Peterborough Museum and Archives may be limited so Peterborough Transit will be running a shuttle bus from the Peterborough Transit Terminal (190 Simcoe St.) to the museum. The shuttle will depart from the terminal every 30 minutes beginning at 8:05 a.m., and the last will leave the Peterborough Museum and Archives at 12:15 p.m.
The Peterborough Urban Indigenous Working Group consists of representatives from the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, City of Peterborough, Lovesick Lake Native Women’s Association, Lakelands Public Health, the Peterborough Community Health Centre, and community members.
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Watch “Bones of Crows” with the Town of Cobourg
VIDEO: “Bones of Crows” trailer
The Town of Cobourg is inviting residents to watch Bones of Crows, a film by award-winning Métis playwright and director Marie Clements, in the Concert Hall at Victoria Hall (55 King St. W.) on Tuesday (September 30), with free screenings at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Unfolding over 100 years, the film follows a Cree musical prodigy’s survival of the residential school system, and her family generations spent fighting against systemic starvation, racism, and sexual abuse. Admission is free, though the film is rated 14+ and portrays difficult moments.
From 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. there will also be historical prompts and conversational pieces stationed outside Victoria Hall and moved to the lobby for the evening. Visitors are invited to leave messages of reflection on two orange Adirondack chairs which will be relocated to the harbour and placed near the Waterfront Wisdom Pathway.
Join the Alderville First Nation “Every Child Matters” Walk
Some of the participants in Alderville First Nation’s Every Child Matters Walk on September 30, 2022. (Photo: Oralie George / Facebook)
Beginning at 10:45 a.m., Alderville First Nation will host the annual “Every Child Matters Walk” beginning at Alderville Health and Social Services (8467 Highway 45, Roseneath).
Participants will walk north to the Alderville First Nation Community Centre and be returned by bus.
Participants are encouraged to wear orange shirts and stay for the welcoming ceremony following the walk.
Reflect at the Remembrance Ceremony at the Boyd Museum in Bobcaygeon
The Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon and the Mishkodeh Centre for Indigenous Knowledge will be hosting an annual Remembrance Ceremony at the Boyd Heritage Museum (21 Canal St. E.) to commemorate the history and ongoing impact of residential schools.
Beginning at 5 p.m. on Tuesday (September 30), the ceremony will be followed by a walk to the Gdinuhwendimin “We Are Related” Friendship Garden at Bobcaygeon Beach Park.
Three members of Curve Lake First Nation — drummer and musician Janet McCue, former City of Peterborough poet laureate Sarah Lewis, and educator Brittany Taylor — will also be present. Donations will go to the school at Curve Lake First Nation.
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Browse the “Art + Waste in Panniqtung” Exhibit at the Art Gallery of Peterborough
VIDEO: “Art + Waste in Panniqtuuq”
Before October 5, head to the Art Gallery of Peterborough (250 Crescent St.) to see the “Art + Waste in Panniqtuuq” exhibition, created by an ad hoc collective of artists aiming to bring awareness to the urgent waste crisis in the Arctic community of Panniqtuuq, Nunavut.
The climate crisis is causing the permafrost to melt in the remote community and, as demand for natural resources increases, unprecedented volumes of waste and contaminants are causing dramatic changes and damage to the land, sea, and ice.
Inuit artists featured in the exhibit include Madeleine Aasivak Qumuataq, Jupa Ishulutak, Kawtysie Kakee, Annie Kilabuk, David Kilabuk, Talia Metuq, Oleepika Nashalik, and Malaya Pitsiulak, alongside settler artist and researcher Micky Renders.
Related events include a speaking circle on environmental racism from 3 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday (October 1) at Trent University, an artist talk by David Kilabuk from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday (October 2) at The Canadian Canoe Museum, an artist talk by Madeline Aasivak Qumuataq at 11 a.m. on Saturday (October 4) at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, and a soapstone carving workshop with Jupa Ishulutak and Malaya Pitsiulak from 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday (October 5) at the Art Gallery of Peterborough.
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