History

These individuals knew all too well the effects of the de-institutionalization of psychiatric patients from local health centres. Many ended up with little income, few family contacts, and no place to go to during the day. Having grown tired of the limited opportunities to engage in meaningful work they began to envision what type of business venture they would pursue. it was decided that a cleaning and maintenance company was the most feasible business possibility especially from a start-up cost perspective.

 Incorporated as Cross-Toronto Community Development Corporation in 1991 and maintaining its operating name of Fresh Start Cleaning and Maintenance, Fresh Start began to receive Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care funding as an ongoing investment in the business to address the public’s responsibility for its more vulnerable citizens in a productive and alternative manner as opposed to mainstream services available at that time. The Board, comprising of non-administrative workers and community members, placed emphasis on employee ownership and developing a Mission Statement to reflect the sentiment and values of those who first came together.

 The company remembers its humble beginnings and is proud to have built on a vision that began from grassroots to become a valued service within the community. From servicing vulnerable citizens to offering employment to vulnerable members of society, Fresh Start has remained true to its commitment to proving its worth in the corporate world.