living IN MINTO

When we say you belong here, we really mean it.

What’s life in Minto really like? Relaxed. Friendly. And there’s always something to do.

Minto has a vibrant community life, with a full roster of stores, services and amenities to help you create the life you’ve always dreamed about.

We find every reason to celebrate with a full line up of year-round community events, plus activities and entertainment for your down time. They’re the best way to make new friends and meet families like yours.

 meet the locals

Read why these families chose Minto.

for our youngest community members

SCHOOLS

Minto is home to two elementary schools, in Minto-Clifford Public School in Harriston and Palmerston Public School, which offers a French immersion program.

Palmerston is also home to Norwell District Secondary School, a mid-sized composite high school with a full range of educational programs – academic, technical, and special education.

Looking for an alternative education format? Check out The Owl’s Nest, an independent outdoor holistic alternative school located between Harriston and Clifford.


CHILD CARE & YOUTH SUPPORT

Recognizing the needs of our youngest community members, the Town of Minto continuously develops programming for children aged 4 - 12, including after school programs, and summer, PD Day and March Break day camps. Plus, you’ll find recreational activities and organized sports that give kids space to play.

In partnership with the County of Wellington, Minto is also home to a licensed child care facility (Palmerston) and The Grove Youth Wellness Hub for youth aged 12 - 26 to access local support and mental health services.

A variety of home-based child care and independent preschool programs are also available in Minto.

shop (local) ‘til you drop

Minto didn’t invent the idea of shopping local – but it’s one of the unspoken core values of our community. 

Within our three towns, there are stores and services to meet the needs of your daily life, restaurants to give you a taste of something different, and hidden gems where you’ll discover the unexpected.

If you can’t find something you need, it’s a short drive to a neighbouring community or the city. 

the Minto six-pack: recreation amenities

Minto is 300 square kilometres of rural living that beg to be explored. With ample indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, recreation programs for all ages, plus green space galore, getting active is one of the easiest ways to meet new people.

You may even score a six pack in the process.

PLUS 19 kilometres of mixed use trails

& 2 independent gym facilities

“We love taking family walks in scenic Lions Heritage Park and visiting the Minto Farmers' Market in the summer months.”

– AARON, TAYLOR & LAYLA KEUNEN, PALMERSTON

In Minto, farm-to-table isn’t just a foodie fad: it’s a way of life. Our rich agricultural heritage means we can access locally grown and produced farm products all year round.

We celebrate our farming neighbours through seasonal on-farm events, a truly local farmers’ market, and annual fall fairs that are more than a century old.

And we have plenty of options to tame your takeout cravings – from fresh cut fries and ice cream to wings and pizza that people drive across the county for.

you’ve gotta eat!

health & wellness

HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

From family doctors to registered massage therapists, Minto has health care providers to help every one in your family stay well from their head to their toes. ​​

All of Minto’s communities offer a range of supportive health care services, such as dental clinics, chiropractors, optometrists, naturopaths, registered massage therapists, midwifery, and more.

LOCAL HOSPITAL

The Palmerston and District Hospital is a fully accredited hospital offering a range of primary and secondary services, including 24 hour emergency services, inpatient and outpatient care, specialist clinics and supportive diagnostic services.

The hospital has an active staff complement of nine family practitioners as well as consulting staff in general surgery, internal medicine, radiology, anesthesiology, pathology, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics and ENT. 

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

In order to support the mental health of our community, Minto Mental Health (MMH) brings awareness, training and support services to the region.

MMH provides visitors with access to resources and services they can self-refer to. Minto Mental Health also partners with many service providers and organizations to help advocate and bring awareness to mental health and getting support.

“We love summer! Our kids spend a lot of time at the local swimming pool and playing in the parks. [Ahmad] enjoys going for walks around the community and saying hello to all the friendly people.”

– THE ALMOHOMMAD FAMILY, HARRISTON

volunteering

Volunteers who donate their time, talent and expertise are truly the life blood of our small towns. Minto’s residents and business owners have a strong commitment to volunteerism in the community. Volunteering is also the easiest way to meet people with common interests and make an impact where you live.

And Minto has no shortage of opportunities to get involved – from sports and service clubs to the arts, events and community improvement committees. You can get matched with an organization or look for volunteer opportunities through our volunteer portal. 

which Minto community is right for you?

Clifford

Harriston

PALMERSTON