Evaluating arts-based programs
Evaluation is crucial to understanding the efficacy of an intervention. The HEAL Project adopted many mixed method evaluation approaches to measure the change in behaviours, knowledge, and attitudes of participants who completed the program. The evaluation methods focused on relationship-centered and trauma-informed approach that prioritizes dignity, choice, emotional safety, and cultural meaning. Read more about […]
Findings and impact
The HEAL Project demonstrates that trauma-informed, culturally responsive expressive arts interventions can meaningfully support the healing and well-being of newcomer survivors of domestic and family violence. The evaluation used a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative insights from participants, peer facilitators, and community partners with quantitative measures of program outcomes. This approach provided a comprehensive insight of […]
Healing arts for newcomer well-being event
On November 12, 2025, Access Alliance hosted Healing Arts for Newcomer Family Well-being at the Toronto Reference Library. Attendees were welcomed into a space filled with warmth and colour. It was an energetic, inspiring evening, bringing together community members, and professionals from the arts, mental health, healthcare, and settlement sectors. This event marked the culmination […]
Subgroup program reports
The project piloted the 12-session expressive arts HEAL Program across five distinct newcomer communities, including Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Tigrinya and shelter-based participants, and 2LGBTQI+ groups. Each report highlights the unique experiences, strengths, and needs of newcomer families within these communities. The subgroup reports underscore the importance of tailored gender-based violence support resources and services, challenging […]
Planning documents
These project planning tools provide a comprehensive visual and strategic framework for the initiative, collectively mapping the key inputs, activities, and outputs of the program. The tools also illustrate how expressive arts interventions are structured to support newcomer women survivors of domestic violence. Together, these tools function as integrated guides for program design, delivery, and […]
Milestone reports
Milestone reports capture key moments in the implementation of the HEAL Project. Each report highlights progress each year, successes and reflections. It provides a quick snapshot of the project and how it has strengthened its approach to newcomer mental health and well-being working across all levels of society. Together, they provide a clear record of […]
Embroidery and Syrian refugees exploring loss and hope
Date: December 15, 2020 Author(s): Alexandra Hanania This paper examines an art therapy embroidery program for Syrian refugee women in Toronto. Using Tatriz, the group offered a culturally familiar way for participants to explore feelings of loss, hope, and identity. The study shows how embroidery helped the women express their stories, connect with their past, […]
Fostering integration through the arts
Date: March, 2025 Author(s): Jérémie Molho, Tomée Tzatzanis, Shawn Newman This research investigates how arts-based programs can support the integration and empowerment of newcomers and refugees in Toronto. The report evaluates Toronto Arts Council’s (TAC) program for newcomers and refugees and how targeted arts funding and mentorship helps overcome personal and system barriers. View paper […]
What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being?
Date: November 05, 2019 Author(s): Daisy Fancourt, Saoirse Finn This World Health Organization (WHO) report reviews two decades of global evidence to explore how the arts can support better health outcomes. The report addresses a major gap by organizing existing research into a clear, accessible resource for policymakers, practitioners, and communities. The report synthesized results […]
Expressive arts therapy research
Date: April 18, 2024 Author(s): Akm Alamgir, Christen Kong This research paper explores how newcomer women in Toronto, of specific linguistic and social identity backgrounds, encounter unique and unspoken challenges related to domestic violence and trauma. By using expressive arts as both a healing and research implementation tool, this study highlights social and systemic barriers […]