Moms of Markham Stouffville launch community clean-up initiative

The Moms of Markham Stouffville, a growing group of mothers connected through their shared experience of welcoming their children at Markham Stouffville Hospital, completed their first community clean-up under York Region’s Adopt-A-Road program on November 23.

Led by friends Jananey Jayaratnarajah, Mala Vijayarathnam, Vithiya Vijayarathnam and Dhivya Sasitharan, the milestone marks a heartfelt effort to give back to the hospital and neighbourhood that played a defining role in their journeys into motherhood.

What started as a simple family lesson in community responsibility quickly evolved into a broader initiative. After Jayaratnarajah learned that children under 12 cannot participate in roadside clean-ups, she saw an opportunity to bring together mothers who share a unique bond with Markham Stouffville Hospital.

“Suddenly, this wasn’t just about keeping our roads clean; it became a heartfelt way to honour the hospital that cared for us during one of the most meaningful moments of our lives,” she said. “Together, we’re hoping to grow this circle of moms into something bigger, something that inspires other families in our community to help keep our regional roads clean, safe, and beautiful.”

York Region installed the official “Moms of Markham Stouffville” Adopt-A-Road signage along their clean-up route on Ninth Line between Highway 7 and Church Street.

The group has committed to maintaining this section of roadway twice a year, turning a personal gesture into a long-term act of community stewardship. With their first clean-up now complete, they look forward to continuing the initiative and strengthening their connection to the community that supported them during one of life’s most meaningful milestones.

The group’s next clean-up is planned for Spring 2026, and they are inviting other moms to join them. Anyone interested can reach out at momsofmarkhamstouffville@gmail.com.