On Sunday, June 1, the Welland McMaster Family Health Team and the Niagara Migrant Workers Interest Group (NMWIG) hosted the 3rd Annual Pelham Health Fair for Seasonal Agricultural Workers (SAWs)—a vibrant and welcoming event that brought together over 70 workers from across Niagara.

Now in its third year, the fair has become a cornerstone of community care and support for the vital workforce that powers Niagara’s agricultural sector. Attendees were invited to learn about a wide range of health and social service supports available to them in the region. But beyond access to essential resources, the event also offered something just as important: a sense of connection.

Participants enjoyed a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where they could socialize with friends, share a delicious meal, and take part in a community raffle. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals, a variety of prizes were awarded, making for a joyful and celebratory afternoon.

This year’s event was made possible in part by the Truly Local Grant from PenFinancial Credit Union, which provided critical support for both the ongoing medical clinic for SAWs and the food served at the Health Fair.

Gratitude is also extended to the many generous sponsors and volunteers who ensured the event’s success. A heartfelt thank you goes out to:

• Rotary Club of Fonthill
• PharmaChoice – Family Health Pharmacy Pelham
• Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc. (OHCOW)
• Canadian Federation of University Women – Welland & District
• DeVries Fruit Farm
• Century 21 Heritage House (Fonthill Agents)
• Oliver’s Butcher & Catering
• Urge to Purge Inc.
• Team Berkhout Bosse – Remax Niagara Realty Ltd., Brokerage
• Food Basics Fonthill
• Pelham Active Transportation Committee
• Positive Living Niagara
• Country Boys Mobile Food Services
• Migrant Farm Workers Project
• OPIRG Brock

With community partnership at its heart, the Pelham Health Fair stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when local organizations, businesses, and individuals come together with purpose. The Welland McMaster Family Health Team and NMWIG look forward to continuing this work and making next year’s event even more impactful.

For more information or to get involved in future events, reach out to the Niagara Migrant Workers Interest Group or the Welland McMaster Family Health Team.