Complex Communities is a specialized unit within the Community Safety Department. It collaborates with internal and external partners, including community agencies, York Security Services, and departments across York University’s campuses to develop and implement a trauma-informed, collaborative engagement strategy for responding to homelessness and mental health crises on our campuses. The unit’s central aim is to enhance engagement with marginalized communities, foster trust, and inform safety policies that reflect and advance the University’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion goals.
Building on the Community Safety Department’s transition towards a Community-Centric Safety Approach, there are three key components to the work of the unit:
- Respond to immediate needs
- Capacity building in the York community
- Provide education & awareness
Building Capacity and Empowering Safety Awareness on Campus
Wanting to learn more about how to support someone in crisis on campus? Request a training for your team or department!
Complex Communities Manager Andrea Westbrook can join your team, virtually or in-person, for an interactive session focused on strengthening community safety through education, collaboration, and trauma-informed engagement. This training will equip participants with practical tools to recognize signs of distress, respond safely, and connect with campus resources — fostering a safer, more inclusive campus for all.
For more information email Complex Communities (ComplexC@yorku.ca)
How do I connect with Complex Communities?
You can connect with Complex Communities in the following ways, depending on your need:
Concerned about someone on campus who is unhoused?
- Call the Security Control Centre (416-650-8000) and request Complex Communities to come out to your location to meet with someone.
- If someone from Complex Communities is not available or it is after business hours, York Security Services can respond and/or if you are a member of the York community (staff, faculty, student) you can submit a request through the Complex Communities Referral Link with as many details as you can about the person you are concerned about.
Looking to consult around an issue, get some information, or ask a question about anything related to homelessness, mental health, and crisis support?
- Email Complex Communities (ComplexC@yorku.ca) your question, consultation request, or to request a time to connect to discuss your inquiry.
Resources
Contacts
Krystle Skeete: Director, Community Safety Services
kskeete@yorku.ca
416-736-2100 x55258
Andrea Watters Westbrook: Manager, Complex Communities
andreaww@yorku.ca