Come Together Northumberland Brings Community, Organizations, and Residents Together in Cobourg
The Ontario Health Team of Northumberland (OHT-N), in partnership with the Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC), was proud to welcome service providers, community members, caregivers, and residents to the first Come Together Northumberland community event in Cobourg on Friday May 8 at the Cobourg Community Centre.
The event was all about connection and creating space for people across Northumberland County to come together, learn from one another, share resources and strengthen relationships related to mental health, substance use and addictions, homelessness, social services and the justice system.
Throughout the event, 40 organizations hosted information tables and connected directly with attendees, helping residents learn more about the supports and services available in the community. Service providers and organizations also had the opportunity to network and build new connections that will help to improve collaboration across sectors.
The day included an engaging panel discussion exploring the intersections between mental health, addictions, homelessness and the justice system, followed by a powerful keynote presentation from Chad Valyear. Chad shared his personal journey through recovery, offering a message of hope, resilience and the importance of community support.




Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, St. John Ambulance attended with therapy dogs during the open house sessions, creating moments of comfort and connections throughout the day. Feedback from attendees and participating organizations highlighted how valuable the event was. Many shared that they learnt something new and appreciated the opportunity to better understand the supports available across Northumberland and indicated they would attend a future Come Together Northumberland event again. Participating organizations noted the value of meeting face-to-face with partners, residents and other service providers to help create new partnerships, connections, and referral opportunities across sectors.
Come Together Northumberland reinforced the importance of collaboration and relationship-building in creating more connected and accessible systems of care and support for residents across the region.
OHT-N extends sincere thanks to all participating organizations, speakers, volunteers, staff, attendees, and community members who contributed to the success of the event.
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