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1 | Filter | Report | Who informed the data? | Priorities & Recommendations | Does this resource… | Recommendations: | Has action been taken? | Priority matrix to WMTH | Data Review | Additional Comments | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2 | Who was engaged to collect the information? | … focus on equity? | ...identify populations who are experiencing inequity? | …identify ways to build connections between organizations, groups, and citizens to advance equity | …identify priorities from the community voice that will assist in creating an equitable healthy community | …broaden the understanding of sense of belonging, connection and wellbeing | Social Connections and Sense of Belonging | Financial strain, including housing and food security | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3 | social connection; food insecurity; housing; | 2023 Vital Signs Report | Community Foundation & Vital Signs Project Team: Statistics Canada, local governmental entities, and local non-profit organizations | Assessment data is equity focused. | Youth (affordability access to recreation); Living Wages (<50%); access to doctors (rural especially; housing / affordability, Largest groups facing food insecurity (Women, New Comers, Visible Minorites, people with disability, seniors, unhoused and some other);2SLGBTQIA Racism discrimination; agreed | There is whole section on Connection and Belonging but things like volunteerism, recreation, work force, generally that the community was welcoming and things to do to 'get involved; arts maybe lacking and seemingly slipping | Free Arts and Culture Events; lack of interest in volunteering campaign to get this going, easier access to showers, public bathrooms, basic necessities of life; Living Wage would be ideal; more ways to get hired (hiring fares etc.) instead of job boards / website; more access to mental health care (affordable); Registration Cost and Equipment Costs for kids in sports and recreation; access to food & nutritious, affordable food. Agreed | Good question was asked - how do we make everyone feel like they belong and matter? Leadership and Engagement Opportunities, all residents to actively participate in community events and decisions, can foster sense of commitment and investment in the community's welfare; more opportunities needed for youth and older adults however!; new residents maybe not as welcoming as we could be, more acknowledgement and appreciation for differences among us, but also actively work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society. Agreed | Provides assessment and survey data to inform sustainable development goals: access to housing for all, health and wellness, work & economy, connection and belonging, creative & active living, public safety, and food security | This report is created yearly to hear back from the community what is important and what areas to focus on. It is a way to prioritize funding from Community Foundations for nonprofit organizations in Medicine Hat | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4 | mental health financial strain housing low-income | 2022 Community Survey (City of MH) | Telephone Survey 400 adult (18+ years) Medicine Hat residents, random and representative sampling of community opinions. Excluded were households with members who work for the City and/or with elected officials of the City. Online survey gave all residents an opportunity to participate, 245 respondents who meet the qualifying criteria are represented in these results. | survey of residents | N/A | Change in quality of life in the past 3 years: averaged perception is has worsened with covid and cost of living increases identified as main reasons, while online respondents cited crime and city leadership with a more significant score for worsening quality of life. | QUALITY OF LIFE: Overall quality of life: 95% good; Although scores indicate worsening vs. improving quality of life; COVID-19 and the cost of living, crime & city leadership are cited reasons. IMPORTANT LOCAL ISSUES: Top three issues: Municipal govt services (utility costs, infrastructure, city cleanliness, garbage/recycling), social issues (drug abuse/addiction, poverty/homelessness, housing/lack of affordable housing, seniors' issues), the economy (cost of living, economic development, employment/job creation). CITY SERVICES: communication with residents; Email is the most preferred way to receive City information from telephone respondents and social media from online respondents. Communication with residents could be improved; improving the public engagement process by offering more opportunities for input and explaining how the feedback will be used including factors or considerations that play a role in shaping final decisions. | Report was largely based on the performance, satisfaction, and service performed by City of Medicine Hat employees, departments, and services and did not contain much relevant information. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5 | food insecurity | 2021/22 Root Cellar Annual Report | Written by staff of the Root Cellar as an annual report | Food First serves families Brown Bag serves children Healthy Bundles serves expecting mothers Food Pantry serves anyone experiencing food insecurity After the Bell serves school children Lunch club serves youth at risk, Motel meals serves persons living in motels, seniors kitchen serves low income seniors | Details within each programs shows how connections are being built within and between organizations and citizens | There are priority areas within the report around financial concerns, housing, and food security | Great mini description of the variety of services offered. It would be valuable to know if people are accessing these and why or why not | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
6 | social connection; food insecurity; low-income; | Household Food Insecurity in Alberta 2023 | Data based paper on Food Insecurity | Those experiencing financial strain | Persons who rent, lone family, single parents, households with children under 18, those living on and off reserves, recent immigrants, persons who receive social assistance, persons with limited employment due to racism, homelessness, persons with disability, students in post-secondary | A community guide is available | This document discusses how food insecurity affects many aspects of life, including connection and wellbeing | HFI is linked with an increased risk of poor mental health and a range of chronic diseases and conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, asthma, and arthritis. | Individuals who earn low wages may remain food secure if they do not suffer unpredictable financial stocks such as job loss, salary reduction, death of a breadwinner, relocation expenses, increased housing costs, or health or legal fees. Middle or higher-income households may experience HFI due to financial pressures related to debt load, economic recessions, high housing costs, large or increased number of household members, chronic illnesses. In 2020, the most recent data at the time of this publication, Alberta had HFI rates significantly above the national average; the increase occurred in the moderate and severe food insecurity categories, indicating an impact on food quality and food quantity. | Data source outlining living wage, food security and financial strain | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
7 | food insecurity | Medicine Hat's Nutrition Report Card Summary 2018/19 | Numerous local organizations and volunteers | Report was specific to children and youth | Report from 2018. MH scored 'C' overall, with daycares scoring the highest. Schools scored very low, and facilities (rec centers) the lowest. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8 | food insecurity; financial strain | Grocery Access Survey 2021 | Persons who purchase groceries | Household Food Security | Persons who cannot purchase the food that is healthier. larger percentage of two person household (adults completed survey | better understanding of barriers to food access | provides survey data results to food access. No recommendations were listed | broadens the understanding of the barriers to food access in Med. Hat | Survey conducted by Community Food Connections to determine feasibility of pop up markets or mobile grocery store | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9 | financial strain; housing; low-income | 2020 Medicine Hat Housing Strategy | One-on-one interviews with people with lived or living experience of homelessness, an online survey of Medicine Hat residents, information and data requests from housing and homelessness service providers, two key stakeholder sessions, and a session with the Housing Strategy Committee. | Strategy Report has an equity lens (income, housing, social status) | Seniors, low income including single person households, lone parents, youth, Indigenous households, recent immigrants and households with a cognitive disability or mental health issues. | Role of WMTH - To raise awareness of the housing need in the community and advocates for housing and homelessness programs. | • Person-centered • System-focused and collaborative • Ethical, financially-responsible and sustainable • Flexible and adaptable to shifts in the environment • Data-driven • Simple | NA | Comprehensive report that outlines short term - midterm - long term - immediate Goals | broaden the understanding of the definition, trends and opportunities pertaining to homelessness in MH | Very geared to government policy and funding Great list of Grant / Funding opportunities listed | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10 | social connection; mental health; food insecurity; financial strain; houselessness; low-income | Homelessness & the Medicine Hat Community: Issues, Concerns and Proposed Actions | a broad range of community came together including non-profit homelessness service providers, the business community, and people from education, police, health, fire, the City of Medicine Hat, members of Council, and the broader non-profit community. People with lived experience were also participants. | for those experiencing houselessness | those experiencing houselessness | Accurate understanding of issues, outreach and resources | affordable housing | Proactive social connections, mental health and addictions knowledge and awareness, increased business engagement and social inclusion, increase public awareness of supports available | Mental Health & Addictions: access to services, proactive prevention, broader spectrum of public service training. Fears of engaging people experiencing houselessness: community awareness and understanding of the issues, opportunity for storytelling. Housing that is affordable, suitable and safe. Responding to historical and intergenerational trauma: capacity building, connection, proactive care and support. "When You Need Help" posters created and disseminated to downtown business community. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11 | mental health; housing | Building Up and Building On, Homeless & Housing Community Summit 2 | 46 stakeholders from the nonprofit homelessness service providers, representatives from the business sector, individuals from education, police, health, fire departments, the City of Medicine Hat, council members, representatives from MLA’s offices and various nonprofit organizations. Participants with lived experience of homelessness also contributed to the discussions and deliberations. | yes | those experiencing houselessness | See pages 12 & 13 | See pages 12 & 13 | See pages 12 & 13 | The Community Well-Being Engagement Report highlights the multifaceted nature of well-being and the diverse needs of MH residents. Addressing key challenges such as; housing, healthcare access, financial stability, and social connection is essential for improving community well-being. By fostering inclusive and supportive community we can enhance the quality of life for all residents and build a more resilient and connected MH. | broadens the understanding of what impacts community wellbeing | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12 | social connection; mental health ; housing; low-income | Let’s Talk: Housing, Homeless & Housing Community Summit 3 | Representatives from various sectors, including nonprofit organizations, businesses, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, those with lived experience or currently experiencing homelessness, joined concerned community members in a concerted effort to confront homelessness head-on. | yes | Those experiencing homelessness | RESOURCES ▪ Transportation barriers: Transit accessibility challenges, including inconvenient location and timing of stops, as well as high transit costs. ▪ Basic Needs: Insufficient access to essential facilities such as showers and washrooms. ▪ Availability of services: Lengthy wait times for accessing necessary services. ▪ Barriers to having bank accounts: Challenges hindering individuals from opening and maintaining bank accounts. ▪ Lack of community-based legal supports: Inadequate availability of legal assistance. OTHER ▪ Triangulation among participants and community agencies: Addressing the need for effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure efficient resource allocation. ▪ Government responsibilities in managing inflation: Government accountability in managing inflation-related issues such as insurance rates, including the importance of consulting relevant stakeholders to determine optimal resource allocation. ▪ Networking opportunities: Enhancing networking opportunities to facilitate collaboration and information-sharing among stakeholders. ▪ Criminalization of homelessness and substance use: Issues of criminalizing homelessness and substance use, focusing on harm reduction and support rather than punitive measures. ▪ Autonomy and forced institutionalization: Ensuring respect for individual autonomy and human rights, particularly in decisions related to forced institutionalization, and promoting alternatives that prioritize individual agency and choice. ▪ Eligibility criteria for temporary residents: Addressing eligibility criteria and policy gaps for temporary residents, including special federal policies for non-refugee claimants and study permit holders from war zones. | MENTAL HEALTH ▪ Immediate access to mental health and substance use support: Ensuring quick availability of help for mental health and substance use issues. ▪ Addressing intergenerational and historical trauma: Finding ways to support individuals affected by trauma passed down through generations. ▪ Providing specialized support for vulnerable populations: Offering tailored assistance, such as hoarding supports, and address various vulnerabilities including physical health challenges, manipulative contacts, and cognitive impairments. ▪ Managing behavioral issues: Developing strategies to deal with challenging behaviors associated with mental health conditions. ▪ Increasing affordability of counseling services: Making counseling more financially accessible for those in need. HOUSING/TRANSITIONAL HOUSING ▪ Limited affordable housing options and rental requirement concerns: Challenges encompassing both the scarcity of housing at affordable rates and obstacles such as damage deposits, pet policies and deposits, rental costs, and reference requirements. ▪ Challenges in accessing long-term placement: Difficulty securing placement for individuals with severe complex mental health needs, regardless of age and non-compliance issues. ▪ Transitional housing from treatment: Requirement for transitional housing options following treatment programs. ▪ Demand for "in-between" housing programs: Need for transitional housing programs catering to populations such as veterans, youth, and allied housing. ▪ Issues with landlords in the private housing market: Challenges related to private landlords affecting housing access and stability. ▪ Transportation and cell phone barriers: Difficulties attending appointments due to transportation issues and lack of access to cell phones. SHELTERS AND DETOX CENTERS: ▪ Insufficient youth shelter space: Growing demand for youth shelter accommodations highlights the need for additional facilities. ▪ Shelter operations challenges: Nonviolent-related bans and policy struggles, including crowded sleeping conditions and proximity to other clients, impact support. ▪ Limited shelters for active substance users: Lack of shelters catering to individuals in active substance use poses challenges for those seeking support. ▪ Need for social and medical detox facilities: Insufficient availability of detox centers for both social and medical detoxification | CONTRIBUTING FACTORS ▪ Accessing supports: Difficulty in accessing support services due to various barriers such as lack of necessary documentation, navigation services, and ongoing support systems. ▪ Understanding program criteria: Challenges in comprehending program criteria and limitations hinder individuals' ability to access and benefit from available support programs effectively. ▪ Lack of follow-through: Absence of consistent follow-through or intervention exacerbates existing issues and perpetuates cycles of instability and dependency. ▪ Family breakdown: Instances of family violence and breakdown contribute to homelessness and housing instability, requiring targeted intervention and support services. ▪ Building natural support: Insufficient efforts to help individuals build natural support networks limit their ability to maintain stability and resilience in the face of challenges. ▪ Parenting concerns: Challenges in educating and supporting parenting efforts impede the establishment of a solid foundation for families experiencing homelessness. ▪ Misinformation between service providers: Dissemination of incorrect information among service providers can lead to confusion and hinder individuals' access to necessary resources and support. ▪ Lack of continuity of care: Inadequate coordination and continuity of care during transitions from hospital to community settings result in gaps in service delivery and support. ▪ Limited energy from clients: Individuals experiencing homelessness may have limited energy a to address their needs and engage with support systems effectively. ▪ Income inequality: Disparities in income hinder individuals' ability to access necessary resources and support services. ▪ Inflation: Rising costs due to inflation further strain individuals' financial resources, making it challenging to afford stable housing and meet basic needs. ▪ Poor treatment by service providers: Instances of poor treatment by service providers can undermine trust and deter individuals from seeking assistance. ▪ Differential standards: Unequal treatment and expectations among service providers compound challenges. ▪ Social stigma and shame: Stigmatization and shame associated with homelessness hinder individuals' willingness to seek help and engage with support services. ▪ Non-PDD eligibility for services: Exclusion from services due to non-Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) eligibility criteria creates barriers to accessing essential support for some individuals. ▪ Fine line between non-criminal and criminal activities: Challenges arise in distinguishing between non-criminal and criminal activities, such as trespassing and threats with a weapon, impacting individuals' interactions with law enforcement and support systems. | 1. Secure Funding: Advocate for increased funding to enhance mental health and substance use support services. 2. Expand Outreach Services: Develop and expand outreach programs to reach vulnerable populations in need of support. 3. Targeted Services Expansion: Expand existing services to provide targeted support for specific demographics and communities. 4. Implement Wrap-around Supports: Establish comprehensive wrap-around support systems to promote healthy living and well-being. 5. Integrate Care Systems: Enhance coordination and integration among different care systems to ensure seamless support delivery and clarify roles and responsibilities. 6. Strengthen Positive Connections: Build positive connections and natural supports within community 1. Normalize Access: Implement programs to ensure equal access to shelters and support services for marginalized communities, emphasizing inclusivity and dignity. 2. Establish Consistency: Develop guidelines and protocols to promote consistency in service delivery among providers, enhancing the quality and reliability of support. 3. Enhance Cultural Competence: Offer training and resources to service providers to improve their understanding of the diverse subcultures within marginalized communities, facilitating more culturally competent support. 4. Conduct Public Awareness: Organize workshops, seminars, and public campaigns to raise awareness and challenge stereotypes surrounding marginalized groups, fostering empathy and understanding. 5. Promote Language Sensitivity: Provide sensitivity training to professionals in the social sector to encourage the use of language that respects the dignity and identity of marginalized individuals. 6. Collaborative Advocacy: Form partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and media outlets to collectively advocate for the rights and inclusion of marginalized communities, amplifying their voices and experiences. | Overall findings are largely positive for the Medicine Hat region. Newcomers largely feel the supports needed to meet their needs are available. However, finding meaningful employment and dealing with racism and discrimination represent key barriers and challenges. The greatest gap between importance and a sense of belonging for newcomers relates to workplace relations. Further, efforts to engage newcomers through social gatherings are suggested to build connections and bridge language barriers. Nearly half of newcomers in Medicine Hat feel that additional social and community activities and events can help increase their sense of belonging to the neighborhood or community. This includes hosting more events or have more opportunities for gatherings to get to know others and meet neighbors. One quarter feel that improving their language and communication skills would help them feel more connected to the community and interact with their neighbors. Others note limitations due to transportation and accessibility to the community. 1. Tenant and Landlord Education: Expand rental assistance programs and provide educational resources and workshops for landlords to promote understanding of rental regulations, tenant rights, and the associated costs. MUNICIPAL RESPONSIBILITY 2. Zoning and Bylaws: Review zoning regulations and bylaws to promote affordable housing development and adaptive reuse of vacant properties, implementing incentives for property owners to repurpose empty homes. 3. Affordable Housing Solutions: Collaborate with community organizations and developers to identify suitable locations for affordable housing projects, including initiatives catering to the housing needs of the aging population. 4. Supportive/Emergency Housing: Allocate resources to establish supportive housing initiatives, addressing shelter needs during extreme weather events and emergencies. PROVINCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 5. Supportive & Emergency Housing: Lobby allocation of financial support and grants to municipalities for both the development and operation of supportive housing projects, as well as emergency housing programs, for communities within the province. FEDERAL RESPONSIBILITY 6. Supportive & Emergency Housing: Lobby to allocate financial support and grants to provinces and municipalities for both the development and operation of supportive housing projects, as well as emergency housing programs, to effectively address urgent housing needs in communities across the country. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
13 | social connection; mental health | 2022 Newcomers’ experiences of discrimination in their community: Medicine Hat LIP Survey Results | Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada clients who landed in Canada 2015, 2017, or 2019. (n = 61 from Medicine Hat) | limited snapshot of newcomer views | Newcomers | Did not identify | Workplace discrimination appears to be the biggest issue (among others) - should this be a priority? | Intent was to identify newcomer's experiences of discrimination; gauge the effects of discrimination on newcomers; and identify ways in which communities can support newcomers who experience discrimination | 61 respondents from MH for this survey: 60% of respondents have experienced discrimination in Med Hat. Discrimination based on language/accent and race/ethnicity; was most frequently experienced in the workplace; surprise at doing certain things well and hearing stereotypes were the most frequently experienced types of discrimination. 75% reported a strong sense of belonging; while 80% said they live in a welcoming community. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
14 | social connection; mental health | 2022 Newcomers’ experiences of discrimination in their community: Survey results | Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada clients who landed in Canada 2015, 2017, or 2019. (n = 27,307 across Canada) | newcomers | create or find opportunities to connect with newcomers sooner to share resources and services | Building community connections for sense of belonging decreases the impact of discrimination among newcomers | key finding sense of belonging and community connection with newcomers sooner | Across Canada data - should we focused on Med Hat specific data? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
15 | social connection; mental health | 2023 Newcomer Settlement Experience: Survey Results Medicine Hat | Newcomers (n = 72) surveys through English speaking club, a level 4 English class, a LINC class, and personal interviews with influencers, MHLIP participants, and BCIS staff | yes | Newcomers | Social and community activities, gatherings and events can help increase newcomers snese of belonging to the neighborhood & community - also, implications for workplace inclusion awareness (not mentioned in the report though). | Removal of job barriers - e.g. educational credentials/not recognized; limited english level; lack of jobs in their field, lack of transportation/locations of job | Intent of the report is to increase participation in the communities and social networks by increasing the understanding of newcomer needs. | Overall findings are largely positive for the Medicine Hat region. Newcomers largely feel the supports needed to meet their needs are available. However, finding meaningful employment and dealing with racism and discrimination represent key barriers and challenges. The greatest gap between importance and a sense of belonging for newcomers relates to workplace relations. Further, efforts to engage newcomers through social gatherings are suggested to build connections and bridge language barriers. Nearly half of newcomers in Medicine Hat feel that additional social and community activities and events can help increase their sense of belonging to the neighbourhood or community. This includes hosting more events or have more opportunities for gatherings to get to know others and meet neighbours. One quarter feel that improving their language and communication skills would help them feel more connected to the community and interact with their neighbours. Others note limitations due to transportation and accessibility to the community. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
16 | social connection | 2023 Alberta Recreation Provincial Report | Random Sample of age 18+ into categories of 18-34 / 35-54 / 55+, Approx 3000completed surveys with very few 18-24 yr. old responding | 18-34 yr. olds experience more barriers from cost than other groups. Low income households perceive recreation as less significant. Minority groups are more likely to use indoor facilities. | Looking at age group preferences in activity and participation. | Removal of cost barriers to introduce activities. Developing multi-cultural activities to encourage participation and connection. | Under "Benefits of Recreation in Parks" there was a significant increase in importance toward quality of life, activity participation and time together as families and also importance to communities. Families and higher income household perceive facilities increase quality of life more than low income. | More insight on trends than action points for recreation. Did show a shift in value proposition for communities in recreational spaces both indoor and out. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
17 | social connection; mental health; financial strain | 2023 Alberta Recreation Medicine Hat Report | Random Sample of age 18+ into categories of 18-34 / 35-54 / 55+, Approx 471 surveys returned | Females in outdoor facilities - 31% v 51%. A significant increase in participation of water based recreation in higher income households (70%v42%), 23% of surveys say camping was done during Covid and no longer camp. People with disabilities are more likely to do recreation at home (54%) | Subsidizing entry level programs to recreation to remove cost barriers and developing relationships with providers to program in City Spaces | Targeting those in need the most. Lobby for improvement in accessibility locations more than quantity. | 43% of responses indicated "very important" with respect to Rec opportunities contributing to their communities. Providing more adult and family community rec opportunities and marketing the community benefits of participation and connection. | Cost and lack of skills would appear to be something that need to be addressed at grass roots level of recreation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
18 | social connection; financial strain | 2022 Medicine Hat Parks & Recreation Master Plan | Comprehensive public and stakeholder engagement including stakeholder workshops, outreach to the public including a project website, online surveys, and on-site open house sessions. Approximately 170 local interest groups/organizations along with the general public were given the opportunity to weigh in on the draft recommendations of the Plan. Eight pop up tent sessions were held with 4 as the Plan was being developed and 4 near completion of the plan. A specialized survey focused on inclusion in the city was released with a partnership with the Medicine Hat Housing Society to create the survey. | those experiencing financial strain- barriers of costs/supplies, fees- significantly more females | 57.1% of respondents to the survey focused on inclusion stated that there were no specific groups or individuals that they were aware of that face barriers when accessing recreation facilities and amenities. It is noted in section 7.4 (page 95) that parks and recreation can do more to make parks and rec more inclusive and accessible regardless of physical ability, level of income, cultural values, religion and any other differences. In this section it is also noted that alternative uses for facilities could be considered rather than closures. Particularly it is mentioned that the privacy at Crestwood Pool is not found elsewhere and closing the facility would limit areas where many women and queer people feel comfortable recreating. It is noted that both low-income families and youth with transportation barriers are most impacted by facility closures. It is also suggested that Parks and Rec is trying to figure out who they are leaving out when considering people with physical disabilities. It is also noted that individuals with physical accessibility challenges could be better served. | It is noted that Parks and Rec should consider gifting shared office space to any non-profit recreation/sport society in the city as most agencies do not need full-time office use, reducing their overhead costs and allowing them to grow their front line services. Page 124 - Volunteerism section, it is noted that a volunteer conference or symposium could be a great forum to connect volunteers and organizations. | Promote low- to no-cost recreational options, focus on physical literacy, engage the Medicine Hat Community Vibrancy Board to continually advise on inclusivity, offer subsidized transit, and create inclusivity guidelines for public amenities. | The plan indicates that recreation enables people to get to know and interact with their neighbors which fosters togetherness and feelings of belonging which are important to the wellbeing of individuals and collectively our communities. Residents who participate in recreation activities are less likely to have health problems, have improved mental and physical wellbeing, and are less likely to participate in self-destructive and anti-social behaviors. On page 110 it is noted that the Master Plan does not inventory what it refers to as special places including picnic tables, clusters of benches, informal gathering areas that may become meaningful to residents as a place to relax, socialize, and play. | Compared to Provincial survey an increase in perceived accessibility to 50% "completely accessible". Inclusion of walking, games, camping, fairs and festivals in activities favored. Barriers- cost of equipment, material and supplies, "being too busy." Pickleball is number one activity to be tried new then yoga and hiking. Top reasons- fun, relax, mental & physical health and nature. Volunteerism- 30% volunteer with sports, culture & rec organizations. Overarching Goal: This Recreation Master Plan is meant to provide clarity regarding future recreation provision by outlining strategies on how to best meet community needs with available resources and informing decision makers on broad based community priorities for recreation services. | A report called "Parks for All" from 2017 noted the need to collaborate by nurturing partnerships between Indigenous organizations and the broader parks community. The Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action #'s 66, 67, 87, and 88 are referenced within the Master Plan. The Framework for Recreation in Canada: Pathways to Wellbeing (2015) includes in its goals "Inclusion and Access". It notes that there should be equitable participation for all, regardless of socio-economic stats, age, race, Aboriginal status, gender, ability, sexual identity or geographic location. In the section on Trends and Leading Practices it is noted on page 44/45 that decreasing youth sport participation may be due to various social determinants creating barriers preventing participation, including lower household income. In this section it is also noted that the Government of Canada is increasing funding opportunities to promote gender equity and financial support for sport organizations, yielding more inclusive and affordable environments. Changing family structures are also noted along with financial instability pushing for parks and rec services to address income gaps and remain accessible to all. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is also noted in this section as important to the workforce being more representative of the communities they serve - to minimize unconscious bias. Cultural representation, multi-generational workplaces and those that support gender identity and inclusion are also noted to be integral to maintaining representation of the public. "Increased female representation and opportunity must also increase." A City wide engagement program in 2020 targeted 59 stakeholders from arts, culture, and heritage. It was noted that the cultural community is uncelebrated and is perceived to have limited political support or community recognition. Also the arts community falls short on provisions for newcomers, youth, First Nations and economically vulnerable people. Page 95 - What we are doing well: accessible picnic areas, making facilities physically accessible, trying to understand who is being left out, and staff at BMGC and Crestwood acting as advocates to help people with physical disabilities out. ***Also noted is that the privacy at Crestwood Pool for many women and queer people is not found elsewhere. Closing such pools will mean some people will simply not use them. It was noted that Medicine Hat is in a "relatively weaker position in terms of its supply of community meeting rooms, indoor child play space" in the Benchmarking section of the report. Page 106 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
19 | social connection; accessibility | 2022 Parks User Survey (City of Medicine Hat) | Survey carried out annually to record visitor expectations, satisfaction and behavior (n = 95 in four Medicine Hat Parks) | has an equity lens: affordable, accessible, attainable, recreational opportunities for all community members | Those experiencing accessibility challenges may be impacted in some city parks. | Parks and Recreation builds opportunity for social connection and sense of community. | This is a point in time survey of park users only. Residents impacted by accessibility in the past may never be surveyed. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
20 | social connection; mental health; low-income | 2022/23 What Matters to Hatters Survey | General Public completed a survey, resulting in 223 respondents with the majority of respondents between 25-75years and the highest response rate from 40-59 year olds. Respondents from various neighborhoods across the city and Redcliff with the majority of respondents from Crestwood-Norwood, NE Crescent Heights, Ross Glen, SE Hill & SE Southridge. | Minorities, Low Income, MH & Addictions, Homeless | Request for a website page & social media for a place to check for volunteer opportunities and opportunities to participate. Cultural events. MH Conference. | MH & Addictions Low Income Homelessness Cultural Awareness | Purpose of the survey was to gather feedback from residents to guide activities that create hope, resiliency and connection in the community. | No recommendations per say as survey results. Accessibility was rated #1 in an optional measure of the service gaps section and may be indicative of a potential issue in some areas. The two most important amenity or service overall are gardens, trees and landscaping followed closely by security. Biodiversity, paths and tracks, accessibility and snow clearance were also highly rated indicating respondents thought these features were very important. Playgrounds, winter sports and activities, and picnic areas and barbecues scored the lowest importance overall. Overall satisfaction for all parks was scored at 97.9% indicating that 93 out of 95 respondents gave a "satisfied” or “very satisfied” result to the overall satisfaction question. | Survey conducted in 2022 to find out what is important to Hatters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
21 | social connection; mental health; low-income | 2023-2026 Medicine Hat City Council Strategic Plan | City Council | Minorities/newcomers, those experiencing financial strain, MH & Addictions, those experiencing houselessness | Those struggling with housing insecurity, mental health issues and substance use issues. | maintain community partnerships with the city, to inform, build awareness identify areas of success | purpose of this document is overarching council "wish list: without specific actions and timelines | Would like training, conferences & speakers on the topics of Mental Health & Addictions. | Request for Family Friendly, Cultural & Outdoor Music Festival Events. Citizens appreciate the trails. Parks & nature, free and family events and the sense of small town feel. Interested in events that free, family friendly, music & art festivals and multicultural/Indigenous. requested programs and services: Intergenerational Programming, Addictions & MH, Food Security/Low Income & Homelessness | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
22 | social connection; accessibility | 2020-2050 Medicine Hat Master Plan | Multiple engagement methods: residents, business owners, local stakeholder groups and associations, City advisory boards and committees, Municipal Planning Commission, neighboring municipalities, local First Nations organizations and City Council. | no | 33% of Hatters will be 65+ or older in 2050. Growing aging population highlights importance of age friendly neighborhoods including recreation facilities and services to meet the needs of people with disabilities as well as older residents. | No recommendations provided, overarching document | Report primarily focused on infrastructure renewal, climate resiliency, and disruptive technologies. Key data point is aging population with 33% of Hatters expected to be 65+ or older in 2050. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
23 | social connection; mental health | FNMI | Data collected by Urban Matters | Physical and Cultural Safety: creating environments that are free from violence, crime and harm. Ensuring cultural identifies are respected and acknowledged. Creating spaces where cultural beliefs and practices are honored and supported. Security: stable and secure living conditions. Welcomed and Sense of Belonging: Creating inclusive networks. Spiritual, Physical and Mental Health; supporting spiritual practices, ensuring access to health care and healthy lifestyles. Youth Empowerment and Engagement: investing in programs and activities that engage indigenous youth. | Financial Barriers: challenges to make ends meet. Childcare: accessing affordable and available childcare. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
24 | social connection; low-income | Youth | Children from several MH schools, both elementary and High School | Clean and beautiful environments: importance of green spaces and trees. Acts of Kindness: Be kinder overall, Health and Medicine. Community wellbeing: support for persons experiencing addictions/houselessness. Affordability: concerns regarding cost of living. Youth recreation: identified as a basic need. Not enough opportunities with youth in mind. Cost and locations are barriers. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
25 | social connection; mental health; accessibility | Persons with Disabilities | REDI and CORE | Improved accessibility, More affordability (basic needs), Clean Streets, Positive individual and community outcomes. Special events and activities: those planned for individuals living with disabilities. Connections socializing and networking. Healthy Living: physical and mental wellbeing. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
26 | data source | Medicine Hat Economic Development - Community Profilehttps://www.medicinehat.ca/en/mhed-community-profile.aspx#Community-Statistics | City Staff | No equity Lens | broader understanding of City economic development advertising tool | Community Profile Data source | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
27 | data source | City of Med Hat CWBP Understanding Well Being in Med Hat | community broadly over 1000 participants. Excellent source of data. Written by Urban Matters, a Research company contracted to assist with the Wellbeing Strategy. Very useful as the overlay of mapping data and the deep dive into data sources will be very useful. | no equity focus | low or fixed income individuals and families all ages and stages, underemployed, newcomers | The City of Medicine Hat’s Well-Being Plan is intended to be a community document with strategies and actions owned by the community as well as the City. It will be an essential document that provides base information and establishes key goals when it comes to ensuring the well-being of residents. By coordinating efforts, benefits to be realized are substantial – both for the municipality and for the agencies, organizations, and broader Medicine Hat community that the City strives to serve. | none presented - broad overview of the potential sector investment | for information purposes to be an advocate for new business / economic growth | strong community collaboration for Wellbeing survey. A report from 2023, pulling data from Stats Can and other sources. Includes data on income, immigration, housing etc. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
28 | social connection; mental health; food insecurity; financial strain; houselessness low-income | City of Med Hat CWBP - What We Learned Report | summary of the data collected from the CWBP broken down into different demographics Focus groups and interviews strategically involved open houses, workshops, and children/youth engagement sessions. | diversity and Inclusion | seniors, youth, newcomers, LGBTQ2, low/fixed income | Identified SDOH impact on wellbeing: economics, politics, diversity, healthcare, impact from covid, climate, immigration, Transportaion and volunteerism | identified 13 priorities High to medium | yes | Advisory Committee will continue to meet and explore what issues and opportunities could be addressed by the Community Well-Being Plan and defining roles and responsibilities for not only the City, but its partners as well. | Community Wellbeing and community connections | Compilation of interviews, focus groups, workshops from community partners, organizations, seniors, persons with lived experience, newcomers and youth | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
29 | food insecurity | School Benchmarking Report 2023 | yes | top goals and priorities around well-being. It consists of specific ideas about how to improve life for all Hatters "community wellbeing" the plan | broadens the understanding of what impacts community wellbeing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
30 | data source | School Report Infographic 2022/23 | yes | The Community Well-Being Engagement Report highlights the multifaceted nature of well-being and the diverse needs of MH residents. Addressing key challenges such as; housing, healthcare access, financial stability, and social connection is essential for improving community wellbeing. By fostering inclusive and supportive community we can enhance the quality of life for all residents and build a more resilient and connected MH. | broadens the understanding of what impacts community wellbeing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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