Migrant Workers Get Free Health Help
A community-driven Health and Information Fair dedicated to supporting migrant and temporary foreign workers was recently held in Leamington, Ontario. Organized by the Migrant Workers Community Program (MWCP), the event took place at the Roma Club on April 13th and welcomed hundreds of workers from across the region.
The fair was made possible through the collaboration of more than 20 organizations and businesses across Windsor-Essex, Sarnia-Lambton, and Chatham-Kent. These groups came together to provide essential services to migrant workers, helping them access healthcare and community support without barriers.
The event offered a wide range of free services including mental health support, dental screenings, glucose testing for diabetes, blood pressure checks, and vaccinations. Additionally, participants could access guidance on legal matters, income tax, and occupational health and safety—ensuring they were not only cared for physically, but also supported socially and financially.
The Health and Information Fair plays a vital role in connecting workers to the broader community, offering both preventive care and resources to help them navigate their lives in Canada. The return of this in-person event was welcomed by local leaders, including the Mayor of Leamington, government representatives, and agricultural industry partners.
The MWCP, partially funded by the Government of Canada’s Migrant Workers Support Program, continues to focus on reducing barriers that migrant workers face, such as language differences and unfamiliar healthcare systems. Organizers emphasized the importance of not just healthcare, but also access to information about life in the region—from safety tips to workers' rights.
"Health access continues to be one of the most urgent needs for the migrant community but it’s also important to have the right information about other aspects of living like legal support, income tax orientation, safety guidelines, etc. Language and cultural barriers are still mayor obstacles to seek medical attention; prevention is equally important. The great value of this annual Health & Information Fair resides on its comprehensive approach facilitating access, tackling barriers, and prioritizing prevention and inclusion. The Consulate of Mexico is pleased to participate through its Health Window and the Protection Department staff," said Consul of Mexico, Jose Rodrigo Báez~
Events like these show how collaboration between community organizations and government agencies can help improve the lives of those who contribute greatly to local economies—especially in the agricultural sector.