community information centre
Programs and services
CARE-RING TRANSPORTATION SERVICE
The Care-Ring service is designed to assist people under the age of 65 who have no other means of transportation to medical appointments. The service relies on volunteer drivers to take individuals to medical appointments and is offered free of charge.
Those making appointments should call at least 48 hours in advance.
To book a ride call (519) 669-5139.
This program is currently paused due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE
The WCS Information Centre has staff and trained volunteers who can answer almost any question the general public may have. Information ranges from all levels of government services, health and social services to local activities and events in the community. We also keep application forms for Birth Certificates, Social Insurance Numbers, Ontario Health Insurance, Canada Pensions and Old Age Security, Unemployment Insurance, Passports and Non-Profit Housing. Staff are available to assist you with completing forms both online or by paper copy. Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 9 am-5 pm. Offices are available to make local phone calls when available.
For more information, contact Woolwich Community Services:
5 Memorial Ave, Elmira, ON N3B 2P8
T: (519) 669-5139
F: (519) 669-4210
E: wcs@execulink.com
INCOME TAX CLINIC
Trained Volunteers are available to complete simple income tax (filing) for low-income persons free of charge. The program begins March 1 to April 30 each year. We have volunteers all of March and April in our office Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays. Call (519) 669-5139 to book your appointment.
*Please note that this program is offered to Woolwich Township and northern Wellesley Township residents.
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
WCS offers a variety of options to those seeking employment. A job board is available which lists local jobs. Computers are available for the general public to use when job searching, and free faxing and photocopying services for job purposes.
A Career Work Coach from Conestoga College's Employment program is available every other Wednesday for job seekers looking for additional assistance writing resumes and cover letters. Computer assistance is provided for online applications.
If you would like more information on meeting with the Employment Facilitator (or would like information regarding available jobs in the area), please contact us at (519) 669-5139.
MOBILITY LOAN CUPBOARD
We Loan:
-crutches
-wheelchairs
-canes
-walkers
-companion wheelchairs
Items may be loaned out to those living in Woolwich Township and Northern Wellesley township free of charge for up to 3 months.
Call or drop into the office today if you are in need of any of the above mentioned items.
(519) 669-5139
community support Programs
ADULT CONNECT
This program is designed for those living in Woolwich Township between the ages of 19-100 to stop by the Woolwich Youth Centre on Thursday mornings. The Adult Connect program can be used for all adults (from all walks of life) to connect with others in the community.
Activities include shuffleboard, ping-pong, a pool table, cards, and computers. All can be accessed FREE of charge.
** Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the group is meeting over zoom on Wednesdays. Please call our office for more info: 519-669-5139***
Woolwich Youth Centre
Woolwich Memorial Centre
24 Snyder Ave South, Elmira
ACCESSING ADULT RECREATION
A subsided assistance program for adults with a limited income. If interested in participating in Woolwich Township-funded recreational activities, don't hesitate to contact Woolwich Community Services to complete a simple application. Please call 519-669-5139.
BACKPACK PROGRAM
Each year as parents get ready to send children back to school, WCS offers a Backpack Program. The program is designed to assist families of low-income who need backpacks and school supplies for their children and youth.
The program is held at the WCS Information Centre in the last week of August. To qualify for the Back-pack Program you must be a resident of Woolwich Township.
BIRTHDAY PROGRAM
The Birthday Cupboard offers a place for parents of low-income who have children with upcoming birthdays to come and get a gift. Parents are also welcome to come in with their children to chose a gift for upcoming birthday parties their children have been invited to.
CHRISTMAS GOODWILL
The Christmas Goodwill program is coordinated and implemented by dedicated volunteers who shop and pack Christmas Hampers for low-income families in Woolwich Township and the north part of Wellesley Township. Each year, the community volunteers to donate new toys, clothing, and grocery gift cards to ensure families can celebrate the holidays. Donors include churches, service clubs, businesses and individuals.
Call about how you can volunteer, donate, or sponsor a family.
(519) 669-5139
CAMP-A-DAY PROGRAM
The Camping Program will book and pay for a local campsite for individuals and families! The program also provides camping gear. Must be registered with a WCS program. Please Call 519-669-5139 for more info.
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
Staff are available to offer individual referrals and assistance to persons seeking support with personal, financial and housing needs. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, call or stop by the Information Centre and a staff member would be happy to set up an appointment with you.
COMMUNITY GARDENS
Garden plots are available for a minimal fee to those who wish to grow their vegetables. The gardens are divided among the families that year, and each family plants and look after their garden plot. If you are interested in taking part in the garden, call our office in late winter to find out the time of our spring meeting.
(519) 669-5139
JUMPSTART PROGRAM
You are now able to apply for a jumpstart on your own by visiting the Jumpstart website: https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/pages/individual-child-grants. This fantastic program helps cover the cost of sports equipment and registration fees for families of low income. If you require assistance applying you can still call our office for help: 519-669-5139.
LANXESS LEARNERS PROGRAM
Providing a financial subsidy for art and culture-based activities.
Including singing, art, music lessons, pottery, learning a language, drama, photography, novel writing, woodworking, and sewing. Program available to families with children between the age of 4 - 18 who are experiencing a limited income. Must live in Woolwich and Northern Wellesley Township. For more info and to see if you qualify please call: 519-669-5139.
SINGLE MOM'S GROUP
The Single Moms Group is aimed to bring single mothers together to develop friendships and support in the community. The group meets one Monday a month at the Woolwich Youth Centre from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. (Flexible to meet weekly or monthly). Parents with children ages 0 to 12 years old are welcome. All Youth Centre equipment and activities can be accessed including toys and crafts. Snack is provided along with a FREE monthly dinner.
It provides a great social opportunity to eat and connect. Call (519) 669-5139 for more info.
** Please note this program is currently not running. If you are a single mom or know a single mom who would be interested in attending please let us know. We would love to start it up again **
VEHICLE PROGRAM
In partnership with Leroy's Auto Care and we offer a Vehicle Program. A vehicle is given FREE of charge to those who meet the requirements. Leroy's Auto Care will repair donated vehicles to meet safety standards.
Eligibility Criteria:
-Must live in Woolwich Township
-No one in the household currently owns a vehicle
-Have to qualify for vehicle license plates and stickers
-Must be able to afford monthly car insurance
(Priority is given to someone who needs a vehicle for work purposes, has children or needs a vehicle for medical transportation.)
Please note the Vehicle Program is only in effect when WCS and Leroy's Auto Care has a vehicle.
For more information speak with someone at WCS. 519-669-5139
Please consider donating a vehicle, your contribution will make a significant impact on someone in your community's life.