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October 15, 2026

Test reads This Week In Durham newsletter

📣 Parents and guardians 📣
🗓️ Spend your next PA day with us! 🗓️

Catch up on This Week In Durham Stories at durham.ca/ThisWeek

 
Regional Municipality of Durham Headquarters  surrounded by a landscaped lawn under a partly cloudy sky.

Light it up!

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to come together to recognize the contributions of people who have a disability and advance disability inclusion in employment.



To reaffirm our commitment to inclusive employment in Durham, Regional Headquarters will be illuminated in purple and blue today, October 15. This national campaign brings awareness to disability employment inclusion.

October service updates with a bus parked along a curb in the background

October Service Updates are coming your way

Starting October 19, Durham Region Transit service updates take effect. These updates include added trips, adjusted schedules for the fall season and expanded service across Durham.



Full details of the October Service Updates can be fround at DurhamRegionTransit.com/ServiceUpdates.

A visual of a chain reaction of how infection can be spread.

National Infection Control Week takes place October 19 to 23

Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) is everyone's responsibility and simple actions can make a meaningful difference in our communities, workplaces and daily lives.


The 2026 National Infection Control Week theme, “Powered by You” celebrates the dedication of individuals whose everyday actions help prevent infections, promote client safety and create healthier environments. Stay tuned to the Health Department's social media channels Facebook and Instagram for resources, information and trivia challenges throughout the week.

Registered Early Childhood Educator holding a puppet that is eating a plastic strawberry that they are holding in their other hand.

Early Childhood Educators celebrated for shaping children's futures

October 21 is Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day! It's a day to recognize the commitment, skill and dedication of the professionals who support Durham Region’s youngest residents. Read about the experiences of six local Registered Early Childhood Educators on This Week In Durham Stories.

An illustration of people visiting the Durham York Energy Centre with a staff tour guide explaining how waste collection becomes valuable resources.

PA Day at the Durham York Energy Centre

Ever wonder what happens to our household waste after collection? Drop-in to our free, family friendly event the Durham York Energy Centre and explore how we are transforming household waste into valuable resources.


Here’s what to expect:  

  • Guided tours to our control room to view the waste pit and "claw". 
  • Interactive waste sorting games. 
  • Informational displays and the opportunity to have your questions answered by our team.


When: Monday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.


Where: 1835 Energy Drive in Courtice. The location has accessible parking and facility access.


Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult. No pre-registration is required. 

Learn more: bit.ly/3UcLJ8g.  

Image of Dr. Kyle. Test reads PublicHealthProtects

#PublicHealthProtects: Make good oral health part of your child’s back-to-school routine

Dr. Robert Kyle, Commissioner and Medical Officer of Health, reminds residents that good oral health is an important part of a child’s overall health and well-being. Healthy teeth and gums can help children eat, speak, learn and feel their best every day. Check out this video message to learn more.

 

For more information about oral health services, visit durham.ca/OralHealth.

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Contact us:

Telephone: 905-668-7711 or dial 311

Toll free: 1-800-372-1102

durham.ca

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