Guelph Community Health Centre has received $1 million in base funding from the provincial government to expand their HIV and gender-affirming care services.
The funding is for the 2023-2024 period, and will allow them to expand their services for people living with, at risk of and impacted by HIV/AIDS, including transgender, non-binary and two-spirit community members.
"This funding will have a profound impact on our communities," said HIV/AIDS Resources and Community Health (ARCH) executive director Jasper Smith in a press release.
"For years, ARCH has worked hard and tirelessly to advocate for substantial investment in supporting individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and those seeking essential gender affirming care services. We are thrilled that our efforts have been recognized and supported.”
Smith added the funding is a critical milestone in ensuring accessible and life-saving care for all.
ARCH was responsible for HIV and gender-affirming healthcare in the area until April, when the clinical services were handed over to Guelph CHC, with both organizations working together to co-design an integrated program model.
“This new funding will allow us to provide holistic care that is very much needed by the communities that we serve,” said Guelph CHC clinical nurse specialist Deanna Clatworthy in a press release.
“We are so grateful to have the Ministry acknowledge the importance of this specialized healthcare and provide this funding to support it,” she said.
More details about the new funding will be known in the coming days.
