Black Mental Health Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of the impacts of anti-Black racism on Black communities, families and individuals. This year, the celebration highlights the power of joy as a transformative tool in overcoming the impacts of anti-Black racism and promoting Black mental wellness.
The City has partnered with community organizations to lead the initiative and animate spaces across Toronto from March 3 to 9. Find more information on the City’s Black Mental Health Week webpage.
Events this year include a youth art exhibit, thought-provoking film screening, powerful panel discussion and an afternoon of comedy and cultural healing. All events are free, but registration is required. Visit blackmentalhealthweek.ca for event details and registration.
The City offers free, confidential, 24 hours 7 days a week easy access to culturally-appropriate mental health supports and services. Residents aged 16 and older can access the Toronto Community Crisis Service by calling 211. Find more information on the City’s Toronto Community Crisis Service webpage.
Recently, the Friends of Allan Gardens (FOAG), in partnership with the City’s Parks and Recreation department, released the newest iteration of the envisioning document that will serve as the masterplan for the future of Allan Gardens. This initiative, "Growing with the City," reflects our shared and ongoing commitment to engagement, fundraising and stewardship in the development of cultural and capital projects within the park and in service of the people that use it.
At the end of March, five safe consumption sites across Toronto are slated to close as a result of the Community Care and Recovery Act, which prohibits safe consumption sites within a 200 metre radius of schools and child care centres. As we prepare for this change, I wanted to provide an update and answers to some frequently asked questions.
I'm excited to invite you all to the Moss Park Community Information Fair on Thursday, March 6 at the John Innes Community Recreation Centre. If you're seeking job prospects, housing assistance, health services, or community programs, this fair will provide you with necessary connections.
