Bob White, a prominent leader in the Canadian trade union and labour movement*, recognized that many individuals were not connected to a union and did not have the assistance that they needed to obtain benefits from Workers Compensation, Unemployment Insurance, Social Services, Canada Pension, etc.

Concerned with the rights of all workers, Bob contacted local unions and asked them if they would organize agencies that could assist non-unionized workers. This is how the centre began.

When the board first started the help centre, it was not anticipated that the service would be long-lasting. The sense was that it might be operational for a short duration, perhaps 10 years. The agency continued with advocacy for the first 5-7 years. Due to the recession during that period, employment was by far the service that most people needed assistance with and the centre shifted its focus to provide employment services.

Here we are, 40 years later and the need for employment resources and services is greater than ever.

1983

Oshawa Location

150 people walked through the doors of the help centre for assistance

Staff of 4

2023

3 Locations: Oshawa, Pickering, Pickering Welcome Centre

25,000 visitors a year

Staff of 40+

More on Bob White*

Bob White advocated for social justice and fair-trade labour practices on a national and global level.

1959: President of U.A.W. (Canada)

1985: Formed the C.A.W., became 1st Leader 

1992: President of Canadian Labour Congress

Excerpted from a 2013 interview with former Executive Director, Maralyn Tassone.

Click to Read the Employer Magazine – January 2023 “Born in the 80’s”.