Black health in the GTA
Every individual brings their own history and identity to the abortion care experience. We often talk about the time-sensitive nature of the care we provide, making it a high priority when other concerns may get overlooked. It's our belief that folks should be able to access services that genuinely fulfill their needs and allow them to thrive. During Black History Month, as our socials showcase some of the exceptional Black women changing Canadian health care, we also want to highlight a few organizations that take a holistic, culturally safe approach to the health of Black communities.
If you are not receiving the support you need in Ontario, your local Community Health Centre (CHC) may be there to help. Most CHCs focus on serving anyone who lives within a set geographical area, but a few work with clients that belong to specific cultural groups. This includes TAIBU, which directs their services to Black clients (and all Malvern residents), and Women's Health in Women's Hands, supporting BIPOC women. Clients may access a range of programs and practitioners, taking an integrated approach to wellness. Although COVID has created barriers to accessing many service providers, for the most part CHCs continuously accept clients that meet eligibility requirements. To ensure access to individuals throughout the GTA, some services remain available virtually and a health card is not required.
CHCs make it possible for many folks to access mental health care for the first time because there is no charge for their counselling services. Even when cost is not a barrier, it's challenging to find a good fit with a therapist - potentially due to differences in cultural identity. Bloom Psychology is a collective of BIPOC therapists, with sliding scale fee options.
Some prefer to begin with peer support, from people who share and can affirm their lived experiences. Blackline is available 24/7 at 1-800-604-5841 (call or text). If a broader scope of counselling care would be able to address some of your needs, there is a Canada-wide helpline (plus companion app) available to everyone 24/7 at 1-866-585-0445.
Choice in Health will continue evolving to respond to the unique challenges that each individual shares during their time at the clinic. We always share resources for healing post-abortion, and many appreciate the practices in this workbook, which includes a ritual adapted from African American spirituality. With the resources and partnerships that we're working to develop, we hope to support more members of our community in accessing the full scope of care they need.