Cota will provide an overview of the mental health and justice programs they offer in downtown Toronto and highlight a few (anonymized) client stories to illustrate both, the complexity and intensity of the target population’s needs, and how the staff navigate limited resources to provide support and foster their recovery. Photos of their program spaces and narratives from their service demographic will be used.
Presenters:
Lynda Myung | Manager, Community Health Services Cota Health
Lynda’s experience in community mental health services spans almost 20 years across several programs at Canadian Mental Health Association and Cota. In her current role at Cota, Lynda oversees the Mental Health Court Support Program at Ontario Court of Justice Toronto and Toronto Regional Bail Centre; Release from Custody Case Management at the Toronto South Detention Centre; and lastly, the Safe Beds Program which opened in December of 2023. Lynda’s approach to management is to lead with compassion and curiosity, and to foster mutual support within teams. She feels honored to be overseeing such a dynamic portfolio and is looking forward to her continued growth with Cota.
Mahye Choudury, SSW | Supportive Housing Worker Cota Health
Mahye arrived in Canada when she was young teenager full of dreams and aspirations. Despite cultural norms and traditions which discouraged higher education for women, Mahye persevered and resumed her studies after marriage and ensuring her daughter had achieved her own independence. Today, Mahye is a skilled Case Manager with a Social Service Worker Diploma and over six years’ experience supporting a range of populations including youth, seniors, newcomers and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. She is recognized for her compassion and tenacity, and is fondly appreciated by her colleagues and clients. Mahye’s journey is one of resilience, transformation and hope – a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams or make a meaningful difference.
Oscar Oling, BA, SSW | Supportive Housing Worker, Safe Beds Program, Cota Health
Oscar is a Ugandan young man living in Toronto, married with two amazing, beautiful daughters. His family live back home and they stay connected through their love of music and service to people in need. Oscar’s early life was marred by war and displacement – an experience that has given him critical insights into the challenges individuals living with trauma face today. Oscar is the first in his clan to obtain a degree (Public Administration) and also the first to have served in six countries (Uganda, Southern Sudan, South Africa, USA, Bulgaria and Canada). Since his arrival in Canada, he continued his education and earned certifications in Social Service Work and Mental Health and Addictions. Oscar approaches work with an open mind for learning and sharing knowledge and he feels honored to be part of Cota’s Safe Beds team.
Presented by the Provincial Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee on November 4, 2025.