Privacy Statement

Protecting your privacy and personal information

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 2020

Flower City Community Services ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of all personal information entrusted to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information in accordance with applicable Canadian privacy laws, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

By using our website and services, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

a) Personal Information

  • Full name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Mailing address
  • Date of birth (when required for programs)
  • Information provided through forms, registrations, or inquiries

b) Non-Personal Information

  • Browser type
  • IP address
  • Device type
  • Website usage data
  • Pages visited and time spent on our website

This information helps us improve our services and user experience.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Provide community programs and support services
  • Respond to inquiries and service requests
  • Register individuals for programs and events
  • Communicate updates, notices, and newsletters (with consent)
  • Improve our website and services
  • Ensure safety, compliance, and quality of services
  • Meet legal and regulatory obligations

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information.

3. Consent

We collect, use, and disclose personal information only with your consent, except where permitted or required by law. Consent may be expressed or implied based on your interaction with our services.

You may withdraw your consent at any time, subject to legal or contractual restrictions.

4. How We Protect Your Information

We take reasonable physical, organizational, and technological measures to protect your information, including:

  • Secure servers and encrypted systems
  • Restricted access to personal data
  • Confidentiality agreements for staff and volunteers
  • Regular security monitoring and updates

Despite all safeguards, no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

5. Sharing of Information

We may share your information only:

  • With trusted service providers who support our operations (under confidentiality obligations)
  • When required by law, court order, or regulatory authority
  • In situations where safety or legal protection is necessary

We never share personal information for marketing or commercial purposes.

6. Cookies & Website Tracking

Our website may use cookies to:

  • Improve functionality
  • Analyze website traffic
  • Enhance user experience

You may adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, though some features of the website may be limited.

7. Access to Your Information

You have the right to:

  • Request access to your personal information
  • Request corrections to inaccurate or outdated information
  • Withdraw consent for certain uses

Requests may be made in writing using the contact details below.

8. Retention of Information

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill service purposes or meet legal requirements. Once no longer required, information is securely destroyed.

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage users to review their privacy policies separately.

10. Children's Privacy

Flower City Community Services is committed to protecting the privacy of children and youth. Personal information of minors is collected only with appropriate parental/guardian consent and used strictly for program-related purposes.

11. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

Terms of Service

Effective Date: January 2020

Welcome to the website of Flower City Community Services ("we," "our," "us"). By accessing or using our website, programs, or services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use our website.

These Terms apply to all visitors, users, volunteers, donors, program participants, and partners.

1. About Flower City Community Services

Flower City Community Services is a community-focused organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families through social programs, education, inclusion, and community development initiatives.

2. Use of the Website

You agree to use this website only for lawful purposes and in a way that does not:

  • Violate any applicable laws or regulations
  • Infringe upon the rights of others
  • Disrupt or interfere with website functionality
  • Attempt unauthorized access to the website, systems, or data

We reserve the right to suspend or restrict access if misuse is identified.

3. Programs and Services

All programs and services:

  • Are offered subject to availability
  • May require registration and eligibility verification
  • May have specific rules, guidelines, or participation conditions
  • May be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time

Program participation does not guarantee acceptance into future programs.

4. User Submissions & Information

When you submit information through our website (contact forms, registrations, applications, etc.), you agree that:

  • The information provided is accurate and complete
  • You have the right to provide that information
  • You consent to our collection and use of this information as outlined in our Privacy Policy

We reserve the right to refuse or remove inappropriate submissions.

5. Donations and Payments

If online donations or payments are accepted:

  • All donations are voluntary and non-refundable unless required by law
  • We are not responsible for third-party payment processor errors
  • You agree to provide accurate billing and contact information

Receipts will be issued where applicable.

6. Intellectual Property

All website content, including:

  • Text
  • Logos
  • Images
  • Graphics
  • Videos
  • Downloadable materials

are the property of Flower City Community Services unless otherwise stated and are protected under Canadian intellectual property laws.

You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, or modify any content without written permission.

7. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We do not control or assume responsibility for:

  • Their content
  • Their privacy practices
  • Their policies or services

Visiting third-party sites is at your own risk.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Flower City Community Services shall not be liable for:

  • Any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
  • Loss of data, services, or access
  • Errors or omissions on the website
  • Service interruptions or technical issues

Use of the website is entirely at your own risk.

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Flower City Community Services, its directors, officers, staff, volunteers, and partners from:

  • Any claims
  • Damages
  • Losses
  • Legal fees

arising from your misuse of the website or violation of these Terms.

10. Privacy

Your use of this website is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

11. Accessibility Commitment

We strive to ensure our website is accessible to all users. If you experience any accessibility issues, please contact us so we can assist you.

12. Suspension or Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or permanently terminate access to our website or services if:

  • These Terms are violated
  • False information is provided
  • Conduct is harmful to our operations, staff, or community

13. Governing Law

These Terms of Service shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Province of Ontario and the laws of Canada.

14. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time without prior notice. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. Continued use of the website means you accept the updated Terms.

Questions About Privacy or Terms?

If you have any questions about our Privacy Policy or Terms of Service, please contact us:

Email: fcs.brampton@gmail.com

Phone: (416) 551-4980

Address: 54 Mount Pleasant Drive, Brampton, ON L6Z 1K2