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 […]
Post-program data collection tools
The post-program resources and tools are designed to assess the long-term impact of the HEAL Program and support sustained engagement with expressive arts. They evaluate whether improvements in self-efficacy, knowledge, and well-being are maintained over time, gather participant reflections on program impact and emerging needs, and explore strategies for sustaining benefits through continued involvement in […]
In-program data collection tools
The in-program resources and tools are designed to support facilitators and program teams in delivering the HEAL Program safely, effectively, and responsively. They offer structured guidance for session reflection, tracking participant needs, and planning next steps; enable consistent, trauma-informed evaluation of participant experiences and program outcomes; and provide mechanisms for ongoing adaptation based on feedback […]
Pre-program data collection tools
The HEAL Project pre-program tools provide a comprehensive foundation to prepare peer researchers, facilitators, and service providers to deliver the HEAL Program safely, ethically, and effectively. These resources offer the knowledge, skills, and protocols needed to ensure trauma-informed and culturally responsive program delivery. Collectively, they strengthen preparedness, clarify roles, and support meaningful engagement with newcomer […]
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 […]
Program personas
These personas represent the lived experiences, needs, and creative engagement of diverse HEAL program participants. Presented as character cards, they illustrate common mental health stressors, healing priorities, and the ways arts-based programming supports well-being, social connection, and cultural expression. The personas reflect a range of communities, including Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, and Tigrinya speaking participants, LGBTQ+ […]
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 […]