06/16/2026
Equitable care for every child starts with intentional action.
SMILE Canada is pleased to announce our partnership with Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre (Hamilton Health Sciences) through the Equity in LIFT (EIL) Initiative, developed and funded by the Ontario Government’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS).
Over the next three years, we will work together to co-design and implement culturally responsive programs, resources, and supports that address the unique needs of newcomer and racialized families raising children with disabilities. This work will focus on creating more accessible, inclusive, and trauma-informed pathways to care.
Rooted in a health equity and health justice framework, this partnership aims to strengthen organizational capacity and help ensure pediatric rehabilitation and developmental services are more equitable and responsive to the diverse communities served across Ontario.
This partnership is grounded in the voices of families. Recently, we brought together newcomer families raising children with disabilities and service providers for a panel discussion centered on lived experience. The stories and insights shared will help inform future programs and supports.
