In Canada, especially in fast-growing urban areas like Scarborough, healthcare is more than checkups and prescriptions. It’s also about housing, food access, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging.
On this episode of Thrive in Canada, host Cherie Mercado sits down with Mesh Marxa and Mimi Domano of the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities (SCHC) to unpack how healthcare has evolved—especially for newcomers, seniors, and underinsured residents.
Whether you’re new to the country, uninsured, or simply overwhelmed, this episode proves one thing: you don’t have to navigate Canada’s healthcare system alone.
🏥 What Is SCHC?
SCHC is one of the largest community health organizations in Scarborough. Founded in 1977, it has grown into a powerhouse team of over 300 staff and 250 volunteers, delivering more than 46 programs across 13 locations.
Their mission? To meet people where they are—with or without OHIP—and offer services in 25+ languages, from medical care and foot clinics to mental health counseling, food banks, youth homework clubs, and support for caregivers and seniors.
“We don’t just ask ‘Do you have a doctor?’ anymore,” Mimi explains.
“We ask, ‘Do you have a safe place to live? Can you afford groceries? Do you feel supported?’ That’s what health looks like today.”
🌱 The Wraparound Approach: A Real Story
One Scarborough mom, a newcomer without OHIP, arrived at SCHC needing medication and a doctor. Over time, she was connected to a primary care provider, a social worker, and later, an education program.
Today, she’s a university graduate raising her children and giving back to the community that supported her. Her story reflects what SCHC is all about: compassionate, community-driven care that heals and empowers.
👩⚕️ You Don’t Need OHIP to Be Seen
That’s right. Many SCHC services—including primary care—are accessible to uninsured residents, refugees, or newcomers without status. For those needing surgery or hospitalization, SCHC even offers external support funding to cover the cost.
“We never turn people away,” says Mesh.
“If they live outside Scarborough, we connect them to a similar center near their home.”
💬 What’s Top of Mind in 2025?
According to the team, the biggest health threats aren’t just diseases—they’re housing insecurity, poor nutrition, mental stress, and isolation. These root problems often show up as chronic illness, depression, or burnout, especially among immigrant women juggling multiple caregiving roles.
Which is why SCHC’s preventive care team offers services like:
- Mental health case workers with 1-on-1 counseling
- Food security and income assistance programs
- Support for seniors, youth, and caregivers
- Child-focused programs like cooking classes, tutoring, and leadership workshops
💡 Breast Cancer: What Every Filipina Should Know
A 2024 Canadian study revealed that Filipino women aged 40 to 59 face a higher risk of breast cancer—a trend driven by factors like work stress, caregiving burdens, lack of sleep, and stigma around illness.
“Many Filipinas are working 12-hour shifts, then coming home to care for children or parents,” says Mimi.
“They put their health last—and that has consequences.”
✅ Breast Cancer Screening Facts:
- Affects 1 in 8 women
- Men can get it too (rarely)
- You can book a mammogram starting at age 40—even without a family doctor
- Screenings are available through the Ontario Breast Screening Program
- No referral needed; call your local x-ray clinic or OBSP center directly
“Mammograms might be uncomfortable, but they save lives,” Mesh adds.
“Early detection often means less aggressive treatment and better outcomes.”
💉 Vaccines and Health Myths: What to Know
With measles making a comeback in Ontario, SCHC is doubling down on education. Their VaxFacts Plus program connects residents to real doctors via free phone consults—no appointment fees, no pressure—just facts in your language, at your pace.
Key Adult Vaccines to Know:
- Shingles vaccine (age 65+)
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Tetanus (every 10 years)
- Flu and COVID-19 boosters
Missed your school shots or unsure if you’re protected? SCHC can help verify your vaccination records and guide you on next steps.
🧠 Mental Health Help That Actually Listens
Whether it’s anxiety, burnout, or the weight of adjusting to a new country, mental health support is available. SCHC offers free, accessible counseling that:
- Works around your schedule
- Offers in-person, phone, or virtual options
- Is ongoing—not just one session
“We do 30-day check-ins and walk with you until you’re ready,” Mimi says.
🙌 Want to Give Back?
SCHC always welcomes volunteers—from food delivery to tutoring, friendly visiting, bereavement support, or fundraising.
📩 To volunteer, visit:
www.schcontario.ca or email volunteer@schcontario.ca
🧭 Looking for help?
Visit SCHC’s website or walk into one of their Scarborough hubs. Because thriving in Canada begins with knowing you’re not alone.
🎧 Catch the full episode on Thrive in Canada—where real talk meets real solutions for newcomers, families, and everyday Canadians.
