Government of Canada Improves Access to Health Services for English-speaking Quebecers

Quebec City, October 16, 2025- The Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN) welcomes the Government of Canada’s confirmation of continued support for the 2023–2028 period, strengthening access to health and social services for English-speaking communities across Quebec.

At a press conference on October 15, 2025, at McGill University in Montreal, the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced continued funding for CHSSN’s Networking and Partnership Initiative (NPI) and Adaptation program through Health Canada’s Official Languages Health Program (OLHP). This five-year investment helps CHSSN and its province-wide network of community organizations continue working in partnership with the health and social services system to improve access, equity, and health outcomes for Quebec’s English-speaking population.

“We are deeply grateful for this multi-year partnership with Health Canada,” said Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director of CHSSN. “This sustained support recognizes the importance of collaboration and community leadership in ensuring equitable access to care for minority-language communities. Together, we are building a more inclusive and responsive health and social services system for all Quebecers.”

Through the NPI program, CHSSN supports 23 community networks across Quebec. These networks connect local English-speaking communities with regional and provincial health authorities, fostering dialogue, building partnerships, and driving initiatives that respond to local needs.

Since its creation in 2004, the NPI has become a cornerstone in improving access to English-language health and social services, helping to reduce barriers, increase awareness, and strengthen community capacity across the province.

CHSSN looks forward to continuing this collaboration with Health Canada and its many community and institutional partners in advancing health equity and well-being for English-speaking Quebecers.

About CHSSN

Since 2000, the Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN) works to improve access to health and social services for English-speaking communities across Quebec through research, partnership, and community development.

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