MPP Stephen Lecce Recognizes Ontario Government Investment to Create Therapeutic Spaces in Maple
- Stephen Lecce, MPP
- Jun 8
- 2 min read
Vaughan, ON – On Monday, MPP Stephen Lecce visited the Jewish Family and Child Service (JF&CS)’s newly renovated therapeutic space at 1-Open Door in the Vaughan Jewish Community Campus (VJCC). MPP Lecce announced that in 2025, the JF&CS Vaughan branch received a six-month, $39,400 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to help Jewish Family and Child Service to buy furniture and equipment to create six evidenced-informed therapeutic spaces, increasing comfort, safety, and connection for women, children, and families.
“Mitzva means helping those who need it most—I am honored to announce that the Ontario Government is doing just that, right here in Maple,” said Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan. “The funding provided to JF&CS will help individuals impacted by family violence, and who struggle with employment and housing—creating opportunities to overcome challenges, and succeed.”
The 1-Open Door initiative, developed in partnership with Jewish Vocational Services (JVS) and Jewish Immigrant Aid Services (JIAS), reflects a shared commitment to collaborative, client-centred care, working to create safe, supportive environments close to home.
The refreshed clinical space is a more accessible, trauma-informed environment that supports both client care and staff well-being. There are six clinical and visitor meeting rooms designed to foster warmth, safety, privacy, and professionalism, along with shared boardroom and conference spaces to enhance programming and collaboration. The revitalization project introduced new furniture, therapeutic furnishings, TV screens, and sensory items to enhance clinical effectiveness for adults, children, and families accessing on-on-one and group programming.
“JF&CS is delighted to welcome the community back to 1-Open Door,” said Talyah Breslin, Chief Executive Officer at Jewish Family and Child Service. “This milestone not only reflects our continued growth across York Region and the increasing demand for services in Family Violence, Child Welfare, Settlement, Employment, and Housing supports, but also the strength of our partnership with JVS and JIAS. Together we are creating a integrated, client-centred hub of care. We are grateful to the OTF for investing in spaces that promote healing and resilience.”
The revitalization project introduced new furniture, therapeutic furnishings, TV screens, and sensory items to enhance clinical effectiveness for adults, children, and families accessing on-on-one and group programming.
JF&CS is a multi-service agency that strengthens and supports individuals, children, and families, serving the Jewish community and all others who seek support. Through more than 30 programs and services, we work to create a resilient, inclusive community where individuals and families thrive, empowered by hope, dignity, and compassion. JF&CS delivers wrap-around care across three priority areas: Safety and Security; Poverty Reduction; and Mental Health and Wellness. To learn more about JF&CS programs and services, visit www.jfandcs.com.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit https://otf.ca/ to learn more.
Media Inquiries:
Reeva Waksberg, Manager, Communications
Jewish Family and Child Service
(416) 638-7800
MEDIA CONTACT
Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan
Constituency Office
Tel.: 647-560-9700
Email: Stephen.Lecce@pc.ola.org
