The Regional Municipality of York is giving a $148,476 boost to the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) to help improve mental and public health in the community.
NACCA now has a funding partnership with the region’s community investment fund. Through the fund, NACCA will launch a project called Black Community Mental Wellness - A Way Forward, which will help support mental health in the local Black community and help hire a Black health manager to oversee the project.
“We are thrilled with the support of York Region, who have truly recognized the importance of mental wellness for those who identify as Black and of African heritage,” NACCA chairperson Jerisha Grant-Hall said in a news release. “By encouraging open discussions, providing culturally affirming care, and fostering a supportive environment, we are taking pro-active steps toward creating a healthier and more resilient community.”
Through the funding, NACCA will provide counselling through a network of therapists it established, as well as four mental wellness workshops meant to meet the needs of Black and African descent peoples.
The services will be available through a team of fully certified practitioners through an online intake process, including ones through Southlake Regional Health Centre. You can access the service at naccacommunity.ca.
“Serving some of the fastest growing communities in the province with increasing need for mental-health care, we’re proud to work with Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association to help facilitate these critical patient supports,” Southlake director of emergency department and mental health Stella Johnson said.
Editor's Note, May 10: This story and its headline has been altered to correct the amount of funding.
