Providing access to healthcare services to a historically underserved community is the goal of the Black Health and Social Services (BHSS) Hub.

The Brampton-based agency recently held an open house to provide the community with information about the services offered by BHSS Hub, services that focus on a range of Afrocentric programs and activities in primary care, mental health and addictions, and social services in a culturally responsive environment.

“The Hub responds to well-documented disparities in health outcomes, with Black communities experiencing higher rates of chronic conditions and barriers to accessing culturally appropriate care. Peel Region alone is home to more than 137,000 Black residents, underscoring the need for a coordinated, community-centred approach,” according to information supplied by the agency.

The open house was held at 19 Rutherford Road South, Unit 2, ahead of its official opening.

In September 2023, the Ontario Ministry of Health announced a $25 million investment to support the development of BHSS Hub in Peel, led by Roots Community Services, LAMP Community Health Centre, and Canadian Mental Health Association Peel Dufferin, and informed by the Black Health Plan for Ontario.

Over the past two years, the initiative has engaged nearly 20,000 community members and provided coordinated services to more than 4,000 individuals through community-based and satellite locations across Peel.

Building on this foundation, the BHSS Hub will serve as a central site connected to multiple satellite locations, strengthening coordination and expanding access to integrated care through a hub and spoke model.

“If we want to go far, we have to go together. This Hub is built on partnership, and we are calling on partners across sectors to help us expand this model and deliver more coordinated, culturally responsive care,” said Shane Joseph, Chief Executive Officer of Roots Community Services Inc. and a member of the Hub’s Executive Committee.

The open house featured a keynote address by Angela J. Carter, an advocate for the program and current strategic advisor for Roots Community Services, and brought together community organizations, healthcare providers, and local leaders to reflect strong cross-sector collaboration ahead of the Hub’s official launch.

 

 


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