BLACK HISTORY MONTH
This Black History Month, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black communities to the fabric of our society, while acknowledging the ongoing struggle for equity and justice. In Toronto and beyond, Black individuals have long been at the forefront of advocacy for social change, and their stories are a vital part of the history of homelessness and housing.
As we reflect on the legacy of Black leaders, activists, and innovators, we also recognize the disproportionate impact systemic racism has on the experiences of Black individuals in the shelter system. This month offers an opportunity to amplify Black voices, honor the resilience of Black communities, and engage in meaningful conversations about racial justice and equity.
Equally important, Black History Month is a time to focus on wellness—particularly for Black staff, clients, and community members who may face additional emotional and mental health challenges due to the compounded effects of racism and inequality. We encourage all to access wellness resources that promote mental health, self-care, and healing.
Black Emotional Mental Health Toolkits and resources
https://beam.community/wellness-tools
Services offered: BEAM is a national training, movement building, and grant making institution that is dedicated to the healing, wellness, and liberation of Black and marginalized communities.
Black Mental Health Canada
Services offered: Advocates for culturally safe, accessible and affordable Mental Health Care to the diverse Black communities in Canada.
CAMH SAPACCY (Substance Use Program for African-Canadian Caribbean Youth)
Services offered: SAPACCY provides services to African and Caribbean Canadian youth and their families who are dealing with problem substance use and mental health concerns. The SAPACCY team works from a cultural competence lens to help Black youth work through mental health and addiction concerns. Our programs offer mental health and addictions counselling and support in accessing resources to assist youth and their families/caregivers in reducing harm, moving toward recovery, and making the best choices for themselves and their family.
Caribbean African Canadian Social Services
Services offered: CAFCAN provides culturally appropriate social services that enrich the lives of the African, Caribbean and Diaspora (ACD) communities in the Greater Toronto Area.
RITES for Black and African Canadian Youth
https://ctys.org/services-programs/r-i-t-e-s-program
Services offered: The RITES program at Central Toronto Youth Services (CTYS) is a culturally specific, identity development initiative that supports the empowerment of Black and African-Canadian youth between the ages of 13 and 18. RITES employs an integrated, full spectrum model of support and care so participants have access to a range of coordinated mental health clinical and program supports and resources.
TAIBU Community Health Centre
https://www.taibuchc.ca/en/
Services offered: TAIBU Community Health Centre is a community-driven organization, located in Malvern, serving the Greater Toronto Area’s Black-identifying communities.