Strengthening equity, diversity and inclusion to better serve people who use Canada’s crisis and disaster helplines.

May 9, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada

Crisis and survivor centers are an integral part of Public Health Canada’s approach to suicide prevention. They provide immediate support and resources when people need them most.

Today, as part of Mental Health Week, the Honorable Yaara Sachs, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Under Secretary of Health, announced more than $4.5 million in funding for 26 organizations that provide crisis intervention services to help them strengthen their capacity. to meet the diverse needs of Canadians. These organizations are the latest recipients of the $8 million Distress Line Equity Fund, which aims to close equity, diversity and inclusion gaps in the hotline sector in Canada.

This initiative to improve equality, diversity and inclusion in our crisis services sector is an important addition to the 9-8-8 suicide helpline. Anyone in Canada can call or text 9-8-8 to access suicide prevention and stress support. 24/7/365 emotional support that is bilingual, trauma safe, and culturally appropriate.

Additionally, to further improve access to mental health support for people who deserve justice, Budget 2024 proposes an additional $4 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to support community initiatives through the Black Mental Health Fund . The goal of this fund is to advance health equity and address mental health and its determinants in Black communities.

It is critical that all people in Canada have access to mental health resources when they need them most, regardless of their culture, social or economic status.