Cross-Toronto Community Development Corporation

Cross-Toronto Community Development Corporation is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in 1991, operating under the business registration number 128822111RR0001. It is widely recognized through its social enterprise brand, Fresh Start Cleaning and Maintenance, which provides employment opportunities to individuals with mental health challenges, often referred to as consumer/survivors of the mental health system[4][5].

History

The organization was incorporated in 1991 as part of a broader initiative funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health, aiming to create supportive employment programs for vulnerable populations, particularly people with lived experience of mental illness. This initiative was part of the government's anti-recession program, which allocated $3.1 million to support innovative mental health projects across Ontario, including 42 social enterprises, with Cross-Toronto Community Development Corporation (Fresh Start) among the first[5].

Mission and Vision

The corporation strives to foster an equitable and supportive work environment where staff can enhance their skills, improve self-esteem, and promote wellness. Its mission centers on providing meaningful employment with fair pay and creating a sense of community and belonging for people with mental health issues[4].

Services

Fresh Start offers a range of services primarily in janitorial work, including office and commercial cleaning, as well as residential services. Over time, the organization expanded its services to include lawn care, extreme cleaning such as hoarding cleanup, pest control preparation, and bedbug pre-spraying preparation[1][4].

The programs emphasize peer support and social opportunities, integrating employment with mental health recovery and social inclusion[1].

Employment and Community Impact

Cross-Toronto Community Development Corporation is committed to recruiting from the consumer/survivor community, ensuring diversity and adherence to the Ontario Human Rights Code. Employment opportunities are available on both full-time and part-time bases, offering consumers meaningful work experiences and financial independence[2][4].

The organization has received recognition for its growth and impact, having been ranked among Canada's fastest-growing companies in the early 2000s, which underscores its success as a social enterprise blending business practices with social objectives[5].

Area Served

The organization's services and employment opportunities are primarily based in Toronto, serving the municipal area and surrounding communities[1][2].

This nonprofit exemplifies how social enterprises can address mental health stigma and unemployment by providing supportive, skill-building jobs that empower marginalized populations while delivering quality community services.