In Part 3 of our 3-part series, we focus on a crucial issue close to the heart of Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission: the urgent need for more affordable housing with integrated support services in our community. In this episode, Gary shares his views on how housing is a fundamental pillar of stability for individuals and families, and why it’s essential for communities to come together to support those in need.

Gary discusses the role of Kerr Street Mission in advocating for solutions that offer both safe, affordable housing and the wraparound services that individuals require to thrive, including access to mental health support, job training, and community-building programs. He emphasizes the concept of "community caring for community"—a vision where local residents, businesses, and organizations work together to create lasting change.

Additionally, we’ll take you on a tour of the Kerr Street Mission facility, offering a firsthand look at how the organization operates and the space where so much of this life-changing work happens. From the community meals to the outreach programs, this behind-the-scenes tour showcases the heart of KSM’s operations and its commitment to making Oakville a stronger, more compassionate place for all.

Don’t miss this final episode as we explore the importance of affordable housing and community support, and get a closer look at the day-to-day impact of Kerr Street Mission’s work in Oakville.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission Oakville
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

In Part 2 of our 3-part series, we continue our deep dive into Kerr Street Mission (KSM) and its transformative impact on the Oakville community. In this episode, we focus on the organization’s core programs, exploring how they address the unique needs of children, youth, families, and individuals in distress.  In this episode, we focus on Youth Development Programs and Family Services Programs

Youth Development Programs
KSM is passionate about helping youth become confident, capable adults. The Youth Development program provides a safe, stimulating environment where young people can engage in enriching activities, develop leadership skills, and connect with positive adult and peer mentors. By inspiring youth through opportunities and responsibilities, KSM equips them for success in school, relationships, work, and life.

Youth Connected: A welcoming space for students in grades 6 through high school to be encouraged, challenged, and supported by staff, volunteers, and peers.

Leaders in Training (LIT): High school students gain hands-on leadership experience by mentoring younger kids in the Kids' Clubs program, while receiving bi-weekly leadership training.

Student Co-op Program: Students gain valuable work experience at KSM, developing essential leadership and teamwork skills while making a difference in the community.

Summer Programs: Structured full-day programs for children and youth aged 5–17, designed to promote positive development through fun and educational activities.

Family Services Programs
KSM’s Family Services programs aim to provide immediate support and long-term stability for families struggling to make ends meet. Through compassionate care and practical support, KSM works to reduce financial burdens and empower families to achieve a better, more sustainable future.

KSM Financial Wellness: This program offers financial literacy workshops, tax clinics, and debt management support to help families improve their financial well-being.

Neighbour Care Network: A collaborative initiative that connects families in need with local churches and community resources to offer personalized care and support.

Kerr Street Market: Access to fresh, nutritious food to support the health and welfare of families in need.

Choose Fresh: A program designed to provide families with consistent access to healthy food, improving their overall well-being.

Community Delivery & Meals: KSM goes beyond traditional food bank services by delivering food to families in need and fostering community connections through shared meals.

Christmas Wonders and Beyond: Ensuring that families in need can celebrate the holiday season with dignity and joy.

Tune in as we hear from Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of KSM, as he shares how these programs, along with the rest of KSM’s initiatives, are making a real difference in the lives of those they serve in the Oakville community.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission Oakville
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

In Part 1 of this 3-part series, we’re putting the spotlight on Kerr Street Mission (KSM), a remarkable organization based in Oakville, Ontario. For years, KSM has been committed to empowering the local community through its four core programs, each designed to address the specific needs of individuals and families facing hardship.

We’re excited to take you behind the scenes of KSM’s impactful work, and we’re honored to have Gary O'Neill, the Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission, joining us for an in-depth interview. Gary will share his insights on the organization’s mission and the transformative programs that make KSM such an essential part of the Oakville community.

We’ll be diving into KSM’s core programs:

Children's Programs – KSM believes that providing a safe, fun, and supportive learning environment is key to helping children unlock their potential. Through their programs, children receive the tools and encouragement they need to build a brighter future.

Youth Development – KSM is passionate about guiding young people toward success. By fostering positive adult and peer relationships, they help youth build the resilience, confidence, and skills they need to face life’s challenges head-on.

Family Care – For families struggling to make ends meet, KSM provides vital support to help improve their overall well-being. With personalized care, KSM helps families rise above their circumstances and create a healthier, more stable future.

Neighbour Care Network – At the heart of KSM’s mission is the belief that no one should have to face hardship alone. Through one-on-one support and encouragement, the Neighbour Care Network offers the individualized care and attention that people in distress need to stabilize their situation and move forward.

Stay tuned as we explore these programs and hear directly from Gary about how Kerr Street Mission is making a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most in Oakville.


Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission Oakville
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

In June 1969, 16-year-old Philip Porter disappeared in Kimberley, BC, and a ransom note demanding $100,000 was sent to his family. The case was eventually linked to a disgruntled Cominco employee, but despite efforts to pay the ransom, Philip was never found. Intriguingly, the suspect in the kidnapping died in the 1974 Pan Arctic flight crash. The question remains—could there be a connection between the two events? The mystery of Philip's disappearance endures, with no clear answers even today.

In this exclusive video, Stephen Rowe, the President of Fare Share Food Bank Oakville, gives a heartfelt introduction to the vital work being done at our facility. Get an inside look at how they are dedicated to fighting hunger and making a difference in the Oakville community.

Fare Share Food Bank Oakville collects and distributes food donations to families in need, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry. Their incredible team works tirelessly to organize food drives, collaborate with local businesses, and coordinate volunteers to ensure that they can serve those who need it most.

Through these efforts, we aim to create a hunger-free community where every individual has access to nutritious meals and the support they need to thrive.

Join us them in their mission to end hunger and make a lasting impact. Together, we can share the gift of food and support those who need it most.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Stephen Rowe, the President of Fare Share Food Bank Oakville
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

Join Ann Bilodeau, President of KW Habilitation, as she takes us on an exclusive interview about their new Kitchener-Waterloo facility. KW Habilitation is a local not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing personalized services and supports to children with special needs and adults with developmental disabilities.  KW Habilitation, believes in fostering a good life through early learning supports, inclusive living services, community involvement, and employment opportunities.

Our work is guided by our Vision Statement: "A community where everyone belongs and participates," and our Mission Statement: "Together with our community, KW Habilitation inspires abilities to enrich the lives of children, youth, adults, and families."

Watch as Ann showcases the impactful work KW Habilitation is doing to empower individuals and create a more inclusive and supportive community. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the heart of the community!

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Ann Bilodeau, President of KW Habilitation
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

Mogan Wright, an Associate Architect at mcCallumSather, is making a significant impact as an architect specializing in complex mass timber buildings and sustainable design. With a focus on merging traditional techniques with innovative solutions, Mogan creates structures that are environmentally responsible and architecturally cutting-edge. Her work has earned numerous prestigious awards, including an Ontario Wood Works Design Award and a Kitchener Urban Design Award for her contribution to the YW Kitchener-Waterloo Supportive Housing for Women—an inspiring project that highlights her dedication to community and sustainability. As a Project Architect, Mogan continues to influence the future of architecture, and today, she’s here to share her insights on how mass timber can help build a more sustainable and resilient future.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Mogan Wright, Associate Architect at mcCallumSather
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

Ivan Vasyliv and Betty Vuong from Serotiny Group, who recently presented at the Intentional Community Consortium Housing Forum on October 8, 2024, are here today to share their expertise. Their presentation, titled 'Reuse Not Rework', focused on innovative, sustainable housing solutions by highlighting the potential of adaptive reuse in construction. Through their work, Ivan and Betty are helping shape the future of eco-friendly design. Today, they’ll share their insights on how we can rethink building practices to create a more sustainable future.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guests: Ivan Vasyliv and Betty Vuong from Serotiny Group
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

Nadia Venafro, a representative for Multi-Unit Housing Solutions at the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), has been a key advocate for affordable housing initiatives across Canada. Today, she’s here to share valuable insights on the latest funding options and opportunities available to developers, along with important updates from CMHC. With her extensive experience in navigating government programs and driving growth in multi-unit housing, Nadia will guide us on how to effectively utilize these resources to support meaningful community development.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Nadia Venafro, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates

Join us for an insightful session with Tim Welch, President of TWC Inc., who recently delivered a compelling presentation titled 'Key Factors for a Successful Affordable Housing Project' at the Intentional Community Consortium Housing Forum on October 8, 2024. With his extensive experience in the affordable housing sector, Tim is the perfect expert to delve into the essential strategies that can drive success in creating sustainable and impactful affordable housing. Tune in to hear his valuable insights on how developers and communities can work together to address housing challenges and create thriving, inclusive neighborhoods.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Tim Welch, President of TWC Inc.
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates