By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Hundreds of migrant and agricultural workers gathered at the Roma Club for the Migrant Worker Community Program’s annual Health and Information Fair, an event organizers say has become a cornerstone of support for the region’s international workforce.
The fair brought together health providers, consulates, legal clinics, financial services and community agencies offering information in multiple languages. Staff and volunteers with the MWCP said the goal was to make essential services easier to access for the thousands of workers who arrive in Essex County each year.
“This event is about connection and dignity,” said outreach worker Isabel Bernal, who helped coordinate the fair.
“Migrant workers contribute so much to our region, and they deserve clear information, accessible services and a welcoming space.”
This year’s gathering drew a notable list of dignitaries, reflecting the growing recognition of migrant workers’ role in the local economy. Among those attending were Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, MPP Trevor Jones, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, MP Dave Epp, Guatemalan Consul Myrian De La Roca, Mexican Consul Rodrigo Baez, and representatives from the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers and the Migrant Worker Office.
In remarks shared after the event, MP Dave Epp said the fair remains an important touchpoint for workers who often face barriers accessing services. “This event brings together organizations, service providers and community members to ensure migrant workers have access to health resources, information and support,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone involved for your continued dedication to supporting those who contribute so much to our local communities and economy.”
More than two dozen organizations participated, including the Consulates of Mexico and Guatemala, Legal Assistance Windsor, SECC, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor‑Essex Community Health Centre, OHCOW, the OPP, Family Services Windsor‑Essex, Collège Boréal, the Ontario Pesticide Education Program and several financial and settlement‑support agencies.
MWCP leaders said the collaboration among agencies is essential in a region where thousands of workers face language barriers, isolation and limited access to transportation.
“When all these services come together under one roof, it removes barriers,” Bernal said.
“Workers can ask questions, get health checks, learn about their rights and feel part of the community.”
The fair also relied on a large team of volunteers and sponsors, including the Municipality of Leamington, the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, People Corporation, Chances Gaming Lounge, the CMHA, the Consulate of Mexico and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
MWCP chair Martin Varela said the turnout reflects the continued need for culturally informed support. “This community depends on migrant workers,” he said.
“Events like this show our commitment to ensuring they are respected, protected and connected.”
Organizers say planning is already underway for the next edition of the fair, which will mark another year of service to the region’s international workforce.
