Empowering Young Mothers

Vanda Henriques • November 3, 2025

🌱 Empowering Young Mothers: A Year of Growth with HIPPY Toronto 

In Toronto, the HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) Program for Young Mothers continues to be a transformative experience—helping women under 29 build the skills, confidence, and knowledge they need to support their children’s early learning and development. 


Strengthening Families Through Learning 

HIPPY is more than a curriculum—it’s a journey of growth. Through weekly home visits and structured learning activities, mothers of children aged 3–5 gain practical tools to foster school readiness, strengthen the parent–child bond, and become active participants in their children’s education. 

The program creates a safe, supportive space where young mothers can ask questions, try new strategies, and see the impact of their efforts firsthand. As their children grow, so do they—gaining confidence not only as parents, but as leaders in their families. 


A Year of Meaningful Milestones 

This past year was filled with workshops and events that supported both personal development and parenting skills. From creative art sessions to wellness workshops, each activity was designed to help mothers reflect, recharge, and grow. 

  • At the Holiday Celebration at Fantasy Fair, families shared joyful moments that reinforced the importance of early engagement. 
  • The Vision Board Workshop encouraged mothers to set goals for themselves and their children, turning aspirations into action. 
  • Parenting and Mental Health sessions used art and mindfulness to promote nurturing relationships and emotional wellness. 
  • The Graduation Celebration was a powerful recognition of each mother’s growth—celebrating their achievements with cultural food, entertainment, and heartfelt community support. 

These experiences helped mothers build the confidence to guide their children’s learning and development with intention and care. 


Real Impact, Real Growth 

This year, 26 mothers completed the program, with a 96% completion rate. Many transitioned to employment or education, while continuing to apply what they learned at home. Home Visitors provided over 1,300 hours of support—helping mothers access resources, build parenting skills, and feel empowered in their role. 


The program’s diversity was a strength, with participants representing 13 countries and speaking 15 languages. This rich mix of backgrounds created a learning environment where every voice mattered and every experience was valued.


One mother, Saadia, shared: “With the HIPPY program, things were different and easier. I spent more time with my children, began reading them stories, and teaching them how to play. We've become more connected.”  Saadia now plans to obtain her G1 license and pursue new goals for her family—proof that when mothers feel supported and equipped, they thrive. 


Looking Ahead 

In 2025–2026, we aim to welcome 40–45 families, expand into new neighbourhoods, and enhance our workshops with topics like budgeting, career planning, and wellness. Our goal is simple: to continue helping young mothers build the skills and confidence they need to support their children’s development—and their own growth as parents and individuals. 


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How to Renew your PR Card in Canada Author: Lidiane P. WWCC Settlement Counsellor If you are a permanent resident in Canada, your PR card is one of the most important documents you have. It allows you to return to Canada after traveling and serves as official proof of your status. When it expires—or is close to expiring—you must renew it through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This guide explains the process in a simple and clear way. ⏰ When should you renew your PR card? You should apply for renewal if: Your PR card is already expired It will expire within the next 9 months It has been lost, stolen, or damaged Your personal information has changed (name, photo, etc.) đź’ˇ Tip: Apply early to avoid travel problems or delays. đź§ľ Who can apply? To renew your PR card, you must: Be a permanent resident of Canada Be physically inside Canada when applying Meet the residency obligation (at least 730 days in Canada within the last 5 years) đź“‚ Documents required When applying through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, you will usually need: Completed application form (IMM 5444) Copy of your valid passport or travel document Current or expired PR card Two photos that meet IRCC requirements Application fee (CAD $50) đź’» How to apply (step by step) 1. Complete the application Fill out the PR card renewal form carefully and make sure all information is correct. 2. Gather your documents Prepare clear copies of all required documents before uploading. 3. Pay the fee The application fee is typically $50 CAD. 4. Submit your application Upload everything online and submit through your IRCC account. ⚠️ Important things to remember You must be in Canada when you apply Keep your address updated with IRCC Do not travel unless necessary while your application is being processed If you must travel urgently, you may need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) Renewing your PR card is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail. Applying early, preparing complete documents, and ensuring your residency requirements are met can help avoid delays. If you are unsure about your situation or need support with your application, you can contact a settlement counsellor at the Working Women Community Centre. 📞 Call to book an appointment: 416-532-2824 đź“§ Email: settlement@workingwomencc.org
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Food security is about more than access to groceries. It is about dignity, health, connection, and the ability for women and families to feel supported in their daily lives. Today, we’re happy to share the launch of the Food Security section of our Client Portal , making it easier for community members to learn about, access, and take part in the food programs and supports available at Working Women Community Centre. Food security means having consistent access to enough safe and nutritious food to support an active, healthy life. With rising costs and ongoing economic pressures, this can be a challenge for many women and families. Our Food Security programming offers practical supports alongside opportunities to learn, share, and connect—meeting people where they are and supporting both immediate and longer‑term needs. What You’ll Find on the Food Security Page The new Food Security pages bring together information about programs and activities in one easy‑to‑navigate space. Whether someone is looking for hands‑on workshops, community‑based activities, or support during a difficult time, the portal helps make options clear and accessible. Activities featured include: Community Kitchen Workshops Welcoming, hands‑on workshops that help build food knowledge and practical cooking skills, while also creating space for conversation, learning, and connection. The Oriole Community Garden A shared community garden that supports access to fresh food and brings people together through collective care, learning, and growing. Food Ambassadors and Seasonal Initiatives Programs that encourage food literacy, confidence, and awareness of food resources, while responding to seasonal needs in the community. Support for Immediate Food Concerns The Food Security program can help individuals and families who are facing urgent food challenges connect with appropriate assistance and supports. All Food Security programs and activities are free of charge , and participants are welcome to attend activities regardless of where they live. Any specific eligibility requirements are clearly outlined on the portal. Designed to Be Clear and Accessible The Client Portal is designed with ease of access in mind. It provides straightforward information about how to register, who to contact, and what to expect when participating in activities. By bringing resources together in one place, the portal helps reduce barriers and supports people in finding what works best for them. We also recognize that food security is closely connected to well‑being, stability, and community. Many of our food‑related activities intentionally create welcoming spaces where women and families can share experiences, learn from one another, and build supportive relationships. Our Commitment We exist to help women and their families begin the next chapter of their lives in Toronto. Over the last 50 years, we have supported over 500,000 women and their families through a full range of services ranging from education, to settlement, language, food security and beyond. By supporting women, we help strengthen their capacity to be active participants and contributors within their communities. Because when women thrive, their communities rise. When communities rise, society flourishes. The launch of the Food Security pages reflects this commitment in action—sharing information openly, supporting choice, and ensuring food‑related supports are visible and accessible when they are needed. Explore the Food Security Portal We invite clients, partners, and community members to explore the Food Security section of our Client Portal , learn more about available programs, and take part in activities that support health, dignity, and connection.  👉 Visit the Food Security page here: https://clientportal.workingwomencc.org/food-security
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