News CHSSN Celebrates 25 Years of Building Health Equity Across Quebec Sep 16, 2025 CHSSN News CHSSN Celebrates 25 Years of Building Health Equity Across Quebec Quebec City, September 16, 2025- The Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN) marked its 25th anniversary with a vibrant celebration honoring its journey, achievements, and the communities it serves. Founded in 2000, CHSSN has grown from a bold idea into a province-wide network dedicated to improving equitable access to health and social services in English. Over the past two and a half decades, CHSSN has supported 23 community networks, launched dozens of initiatives, and built lasting partnerships with public institutions and funders. “Tonight, we celebrate not just the past 25 years—but the people, the communities, and the vision that will carry us forward,” said CHSSN President Ron Creary. Executive Director Jennifer Johnson added, “CHSSN has always been about empowering local leaders and building bridges. This evening isn’t just about CHSSN’s legacy—it’s about celebrating the people and organizations who make the magic happen in their communities.” The event featured a commemorative video and the presentation of Community Builder Awards in partnership with the Regional Development Network (RDN). About CHSSN The Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN) was established in 2000 to address the systemic barriers faced by Quebec’s English-speaking communities in accessing health and social services. CHSSN’s mission is to promote equitable access to services in English and to improve the health and well-being of these communities by: Building community capacity Fostering partnerships with public institutions Supporting local leadership Addressing social determinants of health CHSSN has played a key role in securing resources from the provincial government for the English-speaking community. For example, the Senior Wellness Centres program which has over 125 sites across the province and a Mental Health program to support community sector organizations, both programs of the Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d’expression anglaise (SRQEA). Key Achievements Over 25 Years Empowering Local VoicesCHSSN has strengthened the capacity of English-speaking communities across Québec to understand their unique realities and advocate effectively for their health and social service needs in collaboration with local partners. Building Knowledge Through ResearchCHSSN has developed an extensive body of research and statistical profiles that illuminate the challenges faced by English-speaking Quebecers and identify actionable solutions to improve their well-being. Bridging Federal Support to Local ImpactSince 2003, CHSSN has successfully connected federal programs supporting official language minority communities to Québec’s English-speaking population—enabling targeted investments that improve access to health and social services for vulnerable groups. Aligning with Provincial PrioritiesCHSSN has ensured that its initiatives and partnerships are aligned with the priorities and objectives of the Québec government, fostering collaboration and policy coherence. Raising Provincial AwarenessThrough sustained engagement, CHSSN has increased awareness within the provincial government of the barriers English-speaking communities face in accessing equitable health and social services. Securing Resources for Community Well-beingCHSSN has played a pivotal role in mobilizing provincial resources to support English-speaking communities. Notable successes include the Senior Wellness Initiative, now active in over 125 sites province-wide, and a Mental Health initiative supporting community sector organizations—both delivered through the SRQEA. CHSSN continues to be a trusted connector between communities and the health system, advocating for visibility, inclusion, and impact. Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director, CHSSN. Share This Article Twitter LinkedIn Email
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