County invites rural residents to share experiences and help improve access to supports

In spring 2025, County of Brant residents shared that rural communities face unique challenges when accessing support services. Through this feedback the County is launching the Strengthening Support Services in Rural Brant project, to help identify practical ways to strengthen access in rural communities.

Rural communities are essential to the County of Brant and residents in these communities have shared that travel distance, access to transportation, service hours, and limited awareness of available services can create barriers when accessing support. Needs also differ from one rural community to another.

The Strengthening Support Services in Rural Brant project focuses on understanding what is working, what supports are hard to access, and what could work better locally. Feedback will guide how the County works with community partners to improve access to mental health, substance use, employment, senior, and other essential support services.

“Rural voices matter,” said County of Brant Mayor, David Bailey. “Residents across our rural communities have told us they face unique challenges when trying to access support services. This project gives people a chance to share their real experiences and help shape solutions that reflect local needs.”

The County is working with community partners and service providers to identify gaps, improve coordination, and ensure residents know what supports are available.

“This work is about listening first and acting thoughtfully,” said County of Brant Director of Community Outreach, Rodel Ramos. “By hearing directly from rural residents, we can focus our efforts where they will have the greatest impact and strengthen connections between people and the supports they need.”

How to Get Involved

There will be multiple opportunities for community engagement.

Strengthening Support Services Survey

Rural residents are encouraged to complete the Strengthening Supports Survey in one of 3 ways:

1. Online at EngageBrant.ca/RuralSupports.

2. Printed copies are available at County of Brant Customer Service Offices in Burford (26 Park Avenue) and Paris (66 Grand River Street North).

3. Over the phone by calling 519.44BRANT (519.442.7268) or 1.855.44BRANT (1.855.442.7268).

Community Events

Rural residents are also invited to attend the following free community events to share their input and experiences directly with County staff and service providers.