Canadians deserve better access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services as well as resources that are safe, accurate, and stigma-free. However, members of marginalized groups and newcomers to Canada often experience barriers to care. This is why the Government of Canada is providing culturally safe and relevant care to underserved populations, including members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, Indigenous and racialized people, women, and youth.
This past weekend, the Honourable Senator Dr. Kristopher Wells, on behalf of the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced an investment of almost $600,000 to support the delivery of inclusive, culturally sensitive SRH services and resources to the communities across the country that need them. The announcement took place at the Positive Light Gala in Edmonton, AB, held in support of building a more inclusive and accepting society for all, including people living with HIV.
The Association for New Canadians will receive $210,000 to enhance SRH services and health outcomes for women, youth and LGBTQI+ newcomers in Newfoundland and Labrador by addressing language barriers, cultural sensitivities, and access gaps through an online cloud-based portal.
The Canadian Black, African and Caribbean HIV/AIDS Network will receive over $375,000 to further connect with African, Caribbean, and Black youth across Canada, as well as their parents and community leaders, to develop and deliver comprehensive SRH learning resources. These resources will be based on anti-racism, inclusive practices and cultural competency, and will be used by health care providers who serve these communities.
These projects are funded through the SRH Fund, which supports community-based organizations that make SRH services more accessible for Canadians.
