Toronto`s Community Resources For Gay/Bi/Queer/Trans Guys
Transcription
Toronto`s Community Resources For Gay/Bi/Queer/Trans Guys
TORONTO’S COMMUNITY RESOURCES FOR GAY/BI/QUEER/TRANS GUYS Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming ______________________________________________________________________________________ November 2012 Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 4 PROGRAM PROFILE: Making the Links........................................................................................................ 5 519 Church Street Community Centre......................................................................................................... 6 Access Alliance Multicultural Health Centre ............................................................................................. 10 AIDS and Sexual Health InfoLine, Toronto Public Health .......................................................................... 10 AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT)............................................................................................................. 10 Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention (ASAAP) ................................................................................... 13 Asian Community AIDS Services (ACAS) .................................................................................................... 14 Africans in Partnership Against AIDS (APAA) ............................................................................................ 15 Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention (BLACK-CAP) ..................................................................................... 16 Centre for Spanish-Speaking Peoples (CSSP) – AIDS Program .................................................................. 18 Clinic for HIV-Related Concerns, Dept of Psychiatry, Mt Sinai Hospital ................................................... 19 Crystal Meth Anonymous .......................................................................................................................... 20 Episodic Disabilities Employment Network (EDEN) .................................................................................. 20 David Kelley Services, Family Service Toronto .......................................................................................... 20 Gay Churches - Database .......................................................................................................................... 21 Griffin Centre - ReachOUT ......................................................................................................................... 21 Ismaili Queers: Advocates for Pluralism ................................................................................................... 21 Kulanu ....................................................................................................................................................... 21 Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line ............................................................................................................... 22 LGBTOUT, University of Toronto ............................................................................................................... 22 Ontario Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf (ORAD).......................................................................................... 22 Over the Top, City of Toronto .................................................................................................................... 22 Parkdale Community Health Centre ......................................................................................................... 22 Prisoners with HIV/AIDS Support Action Network (PASAN) ...................................................................... 23 Peel HIV/AIDS Network (PHAN) ................................................................................................................ 23 Planned Parenthood Toronto .................................................................................................................... 24 Rainbow Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health ..................................................................... 25 2 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 RyePride, Ryerson University .................................................................................................................... 25 Salaam: Queer Muslim Community – Support Group............................................................................... 25 Sherbourne Health Centre......................................................................................................................... 26 SKETCH: Working Arts for Street Involved and Homeless Youth .............................................................. 27 Street Health ............................................................................................................................................. 27 Supporting Our Youth (SOY), Sherbourne Health Centre .......................................................................... 28 Stars Project, Delisle Youth Services ......................................................................................................... 30 TBLGAY: Trans, Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay Allies at York................................................................................ 30 Toronto People with AIDS Foundation (PWA) ........................................................................................... 30 Triangle Program – Canada’s ONLY LGBTQ High School .......................................................................... 33 INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................ 34 Acknowledgements: .................................................................................................................................. 35 3 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 INTRODUCTION This listing of programs and services for gay, bisexual, queer and trans men in Toronto has been developed through the Making the Links program housed at the Hassle Free Clinic. This City of Toronto-funded program is designed to increase and facilitate access to existing HIV/poz prevention community programs for men who access clinic services. Given that anxiety about sexual, physical, emotional, and mental health often peaks when guys come in to get tested for HIV and other STIs, it is an ideal opportunity to reflect on what a person is doing well and where they could use more support. There are many organizations, groups and services that can be of use whether someone is feeling isolated, depressed, experiencing low self-esteem, or perhaps just wanting to be more social and find spaces to have meaningful conversations about things that matter to them. Programs listed in this resource range from providing education to individually-focused services as well as broader social and support groups. These programs engage service users in a process of becoming more cognizant and taking ownership of their health needs whether physical, emotional, psychological, or spiritual. Please contact the Community Prevention Project Coordinator of Making the Links to be added to this list or to request changes in program information for future editions. November 2012 PROGRAM PROFILE: Making the Links Hassle Free Men/Trans’ Clinic 66 Gerard St. East, 2nd floor www.hasslefreeclinic.org Mon/Wed: 4pm-8pm, Tue/Thu: 10am-3pm, Fri: 4pm-7pm, Sat: 10am-2pm Brief counseling on any range of issues impacting mental, physical, and sexual health; emphasis on factors that influence informed/consent-based decision-making Opportunity to create insight around “high risk taking” with counsellor Community/counselling referral information and referral facilitation Access to database of queer- and queer-knowledgeable psychotherapists Sexual health information, risk assessment, and coordination for HIV testing Workshops services (e.g. healthy relationships, negotiating safer sex, pre- and post-test counseling role plays) for queer men’s community groups by request with underlying premise to increase access to testing and examine influences on decision-making Other clinic services: STI testing and treatment (drop-in basis) Anonymous HIV testing with pre- and post-test counseling (by appointment) Hepatitis A and B vaccination for gay/bi guys General men’s health education and referral Contact: Rahim Thawer, MSW, RSW Community Prevention Project Coordinator Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to Community Services rahim@hasslefreeclinic.org 416.922.3549 x124 5 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 519 Church Street Community Centre 519 Church Street 416-392-6878 www.the519.org Newcomer Settlement Services: Among Friends Refugee Support Group meets every Wednesday from 7:30-9:30pm at the 519. Topics are focused on information and support related to the refugee process and a meal is provided at each session. Contact: Karlene Williams-Clarke ext 4016 / kwilliamsclarke@the519.org The Next Steps Group meets weekly and focuses on topics that support successful settlement in Canada, such as orientation to LGBTQ communities in Toronto, accessing LGBTQ positive support services and social networking. Contact: Lisa Gore, 416-355-6791 / lgore@the519.org Breakthrough Network for LGBTQ newcomers who care about making Toronto a better place. The group organizes events the last Friday of every month from 7:00-10:00pm at the 519. To join the e-mail list, write to: breakthrough@the519.org Sport & Recreation Services: FREE Yoga (Mon 2:00-3:30pm/Thurs 4:30-6:00p), Taoist Tai Chi (Tue 1:30-2:30pm), Running group (Sat/Thurs), Go Club (Wed 6:00-10:00pm/Sun 1:00-6:00pm) FREE Dance lessons: contemporary/ballet (Tues 6:00-8:00pm/Sat 1:00-3:00pm), street style/body conditioning (Tues 8:00-10:00pm/Sat 3:00-5:00pm), swing dance (Thurs 7:00-10:00pm, pre-registration needed), square dance (Thurs 7:00-10:00pm) Community Drop-In Services Sunday Drop-In: staff and volunteers serve breakfast at 10:00am and lunch at 1:00pm. Programming includes referrals and resources, phone access, informal programming including bingo and movies and a sleeping room. 10-3:30p in Room 106. Support Services: Counselling Services: access to professionally trained and supervised counsellors who donate their time. There are no fees for this service. A Volunteer Counsellor offers up to 6 sessions. If longer term counselling or a group would be helpful, you will be referred to an affordable service. Contact: counselling@the519.org 6 Anti-Violence Program: interactive workshops on hate crimes, the impact of hate crimes on the individual/on the community; partner abuse in same-sex relationships; working with LGBT clients; homophobia in the workplace and on campus; and a “Homo 101” (primer on LGBT issues, dispelling myths and stereotypes re: LGBT communities). Contact: avp@the519.org Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Trans Community Services: Healthy TransActions is a drop-in program for trans-identified youth and youth exploring their gender identity. You will have the opportunity to explore the fun and fascinating world of active healthy living – sport, social recreation, nutrition and education. This group is open to anyone age 27 and under who is trans or exploring their gender identity and runs every Friday night 5-9. Meal Trans: a drop-in program serving nutritious meals to lower-income, street-active, homeless and sexworking trans women, trans men, genderqueer, and questioning people. Trans-only space. Mondays 6-9p. Trans Youth Toronto: a drop-in for trans-identified youth and youth exploring their gender identity. The space offers a place for trans youth to get together, have some snacks, learn about resources, and share ideas and experiences with each other. Two facilitators (a trans guy and a trans girl – both youth) who make the space welcoming and helpful. Open to anyone age 27 and under who is trans or exploring their gender identity and runs every Wednesday night from 5pm to 9pm. Trans Sex Worker Outreach: a project that hires trans women with sex work experience to make sure our local trans sex workers are getting the condoms, lube, and safer sex information they need to live healthy lives. FTM Support Group: serves trans men, FTMs, and all those who were born female/intersex and raised female but don’t identify as female/women. Whether you identify as male, boy/boi, FTM, transsexual, transgender, transman, tranny-fag, two-spirit trans, or are just at the stage where you are questioning your gender, you are invited to come share your experiences in a supportive environment. You don’t have to transition or even want to transition. The FTM Support Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month 7:30-9:30pm. Transition Support: a social and support group for transsexuals and transgendered people. The group is open to everyone on a trans spectrum but is mostly attended by MTF (male-to-female) individuals. Trans Community Services Contact: Morgan Page mpage@the519.org Older GBT Services: Older LGBT Program: provides people with opportunities to make deeper connections with their peers by socializing and learning through special events, guest speakers and promoting related community resources. Monday Drop-In times: 1:00pm to 4:00pm. 7 Men’s Book Club: a group for gay, bisexual, and trans men who are 50+. They meet every 4th Tuesday of each month from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Book Club meeting dates and books scheduled for reading are posted in advance on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/15570-the-mature-men-s-book-club Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 EXTERNAL GROUPS HOUSED AT THE 519 Peer Support: Alcoholics Anonymous Rainbow Group: 12 Step Program for gays and lesbians with an alcohol addiction. Fridays 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm For more information, call the AA Main number 416-487-5591 or visit www.aatoronto.org Survivors of Childhood Abuse: A mixed group (men and women) for recovery from effects of childhood incest. 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm-8:00pm. Survivors of Medical Abuse: A group to support medical victims in a safe and confidential environment. A medical victim is defined as anyone who has suffered emotional, physical or sexual abuse from a medical practitioner. 2nd Monday of every month from 8:00 pm-10:00 pm Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere (COLAGE): a social support group for students (Grade 3 and up) with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual or transgender parents. The group provides kids with a chance to meet new friends, talk confidentially about stuff important to them, and most of all have fun! 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm For more information, contact Steven Solomon and Sandi Parker by phone 416·994·8936 or email toronto@colage.org or visit www.colage.org Coming Out, Being Out: LGBT people 25-40 discuss coming out and being out: relationships, self-esteem, activism, homophobia in the workplace, coming out to families and being LGBT parents. Every Wednesday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Gay Fathers of Toronto: a peer support group run by and for gay men who are fathers. 8:00-9:45 pm, monthly on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays. Calendar of topics: http://www.gayfathers-toronto.com/ Positive Routes to Recovery: A peer presented health and wellness session to provide information on substance use to people who are HIV+, including community contacts. 3rd Tuesday every month from 6:00 - 8:00pm The Space Between: a non-judgemental, peer-facilitated support group for bio-females, or people assigned the gender of female at birth, who feel that this does not best describe their gender identity. This group is intended to create a space for people who fall in between female and FTM or who are questioning their gender, or who consider themselves genderqueer. This is a place for people to explore, express and question their gender. 1st Wednesday of the month from 8:00-10:00pm. Arts & Culture: Actors Jam is an ever-evolving space created for new and established actors to meet weekly to practice cold reads as well as memorized and directed scenes. We do not use any one acting method, preferring to leave the experience open to what works for each individual actors. Participation is free and scenes are provided, so all you need to bring is an open mind. Thursdays from 6:00-8:00pm. For more information, email jermyg@hotmail.com 8 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Counterpoint Community Orchestra (CCO): a community orchestra founded 25 years ago with a mandate to provide fine classical music in a climate of diversity, tolerance and free expression. First LGBTQ2S secular orchestra in the world. Most members are queer, though open to straight folks. Mondays from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm Contact: info@ccorchestra.org or visit www.ccorchestra.org Gay Men’s Art Project: a venue for the expression and celebration of gay men's creativity, a chance to have fun, share knowledge and explore gay men's connection to self and community. Participants are provided with drawing or painting materials and are facilitated to create artistic expressions that help acknowledge, identify, demonstrate or explore the strengths of gay men and their community. 3rd Monday of the month from 6:00-8:00pm and 1st Saturday from 2:00-4:00pm. Life Drawing: a venue for people to meet and draw fram a live model. Newcomers welcome, whatever your life drawing experience. Classes are $25 per month. No instruction is provided, drop by for more information or just to say hi! Thursdays from 8:00pm- 10:00pm OUTwrites: a queer space for writing and literature workshops for queer participants. 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 8:00pm - 10:00pm. Contact: Terence outwrites@rogers.com or visit www.outwrites.org Social and Community Groups: Deaf Outreach Program: Interpretation and advocacy for deaf people with HIV, and workshops on HIV/AIDS and deaf culture. A project of the Ontario Association of the Deaf. 4th Wednesday of each month, 8:0010:00pm Contact: Kevin Canning, Health Advocate TTY 416-513-1893 www.deafontario.org /oad@on.aibn.com Hola! Information, support, social & cultural activities for gays and lesbians of Latin American descent. 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month, 8:00-10:00pm. Contact: 416-925-9872 x 2850 / grouplatinogayhola@yahoo.ca Primer Timers: Discussion, support and social activities for older gay men (over 40). 3rd Saturday of the month 1:30 - 4:00pm. http://www.primetimerstoronto.ca/ Contact: 416-925-9872 x 2970 / pters_toronto@yahoo.com Euchre every Tuesday 1:00-4:00pm (Group meets at 460 Jarvis St) Bridge every Wednesday 1:00-4:00pm (Group meets at 460 Jarvis St) Toronto Bisexual Network: a safe place for bisexual and those questioning their sexuality. Meetings include discussions of relevant topics such as coming out, managing relationships, the meaning and theory of bisexuality, and political issues. 3rd Thursday of every month., 8:00pm - 10:00pm. Contact: 416-925-9872 x2810 / info@torontobinet.org / www.torontobinet.org 9 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Access Alliance Multicultural Health Centre 340 College St., Ste. 500 416-324-8677 http://accessalliance.ca/LGBTQ Services: NewTQs Project Monthly Drop-in for LGBTQ+ newcomers (all genders & ages); 2nd Tuesday of the month Located @ Access Point on 3079 Danforth Ave (at Victoria Park) Flyer: http://accessalliance.ca/sites/accessalliance/files/among-friends-flyer-june-full-page.pdf LGBT Settlement: call book an appointment with a counselor 416-324-8619 ext. 238 or 319 Non-insured walk-in clinic: 761 Jane St. 2nd Floor. Tel: 416-760-8677 Mon: 4:00pm to 7:30 pm Wed: 1:00 to 4:30pm AIDS and Sexual Health InfoLine, Toronto Public Health 1.800.668.2437 or 416.392.2437 Mon – Fri: 10am-10:30pm, Sat – Sun: 11am-3pm, Closed on public holidays Languages: Armenian, Bengali, Cantonese, Filipino, French, Hakka Chinese, Hindi, Mandarin, Russian, Sinhalese, Spanish, Swahili, Tamil, Urdu, Vietnamese. Services: Information and support on HIV/AIDS, testing, safer sex, risk assessment, STIs, birth control, contraception, sexuality, relationship concerns, sexual orientation, harm reduction, injection drug use, needle exchange programs Referral to clinics and community agencies AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT) 399 Church Street, 4th floor 416-340-8484 www.actoronto.org ACT provides a wide range of free, confidential services to people living with, concerned about or at-risk for HIV. To find out about the wide range of ACT services visit: www.actoronto.org/services To find out about sexual health programs and services specifically for gay/bi/queer guys visit: www.actoronto.org/gaymen Buddy Program Robin x219 Feeling isolated? ACT can connect you with a 'buddy' - a volunteer trained to provide ongoing friendly support. Counselling and Case Management Counselling is available to people living with HIV and those who are affected by it - friends, family, and partners of those with HIV, and individuals who are concerned about their risks for HIV. Case 10 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Management services are for those living with HIV who may need help navigating the health and social service system. For more information, including the drop-in counselling schedule visit: http://www.actoronto.org/counselling Community Health Forums Robin x219 Offered monthly from September through March, these free forums are held on a range of topics of interest to people living with HIV/AIDS. They usually consist of panel presentations and discussions with community and medical experts. Can't make a forum in person? Missed a forum? Watch online! To find the next event, to watch live on-line, or view a past forum (e.g. HIV and Healthy Relationships) visit www.actoronto.org/forum Employment ACTion A program is for people with HIV who are considering (re)employment. The program offers selfemployment, career exploration, benefits counselling, skills upgrading, competitive resumes and interview coaching along with job search, placement and retention follow-up services. For a confidential appointment call 416-623-1782 or visit our website at www.employmentaction.org Gay Poz Sex (GPS) Rick Julien x277 Confidential and anonymous, once a week for 7 weeks; small group meetings of 6-8 men facilitated by gay HIV-positive peers, for HIV-positive gay/bi/queer men. Program flyer: http://www.actoronto.org/home.nsf/pages/act.docs.1554 One Night Stand Discussion groups Rui Pires x264 Discussion group for gay men: a place to talk about issues that are important to you, such as dating and relationships, fitting in, finding friends, better sex, plus other topics suggested by the members. Topics and dates posted in advance: http://www.actoronto.org/onenightstand Ponto De Encontro Bruno Bini x242 This is a discussion group for Portuguese-speaking people. The group gets together twice a month and it promotes a friendly environment where the participants have the opportunity to talk about sexuality and health concerns and share their experiences For dates and more information visit: www.actoronto.org/portugues Positive Youth Outreach (PYO) Michael Schneider x265 PYO is a peer-driven program at ACT. PYO provides outreach, peer support, workshops, fun social activities, practical advice, a weekly discussion group, and referrals for young people (29 or younger) living with HIV. Thursday drop-in from 2:00-5:00pm and discussion group from 6:00-8:00pm More information: www.positiveyouth.com 11 Social Support Network Kate Murzin x283 Monthly opportunities for people with HIV to travel together - either somewhere in the city or just outside of it. Transportation to and from the event is provided, and there is usually only a minimal cost (for lunch, as an example). Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 SPUNK! A group for guys who use substances Adam Busch x235 SPUNK! is discussion based support group for gay, bi or queer (GBQ)-identified men. Trans men who like men are welcome too. SPUNK! is a free group offered every week for six (6) weeks in a location in downtown Toronto. To find out more visit: www.actoronto.org/spunk It is a harm reduction group. This means that they offer support to people who use drugs and no one is pressured into quitting. They operate with the perspective that drug users can be healthy and take care of themselves like anyone else. Discussion about drug use is open and honest in an atmosphere intended to be free of judgment and stigma. Support Groups Kate Murzin x283 ACT offers facilitated support groups for people living with HIV, some of which are specifically for gay men. Short-term (10-week) and on-going groups are available; group sessions start throughout the year (fall, winter, spring). Groups provide safe spaces in which members share information and provide mutual support Topics of conversation differ by group but may include: responding to a new diagnosis, aging with HIV, developing and maintaining coping strategies, navigating HIV services, relationships, disclosure, isolation, treatment, and your emotions Totally outRIGHT Rui Pires x264 Totally outRIGHT is a leadership workshop series for young gay and bi guys interested in being healthy, sex-savvy trendsetters. These workshops are for a cross-section of young gay and bi guys (ages 18-29). They are open to HIV-negative and HIV-positive guys, trans guys and guys from different ethnic backgrounds. The events are for guys who identify as gay or bi, want to learn about love, life, sexuality, sexual health and apply that knowledge to their community. More project information at: www.actoronto.org/to Towel Talk: Bathhouse Counselling Program Marco Posadas x289 Free, professional counselling program for gay and bi men in Toronto’s bathhouses. Check out their schedule: www.actoronto.org/toweltalk or ask at your bathhouse of choice. If you’ve accessed bathhouse services in the past, you can get limited 8 session follow-up counselling at ACT with a Towel Talk counsellor by calling and booking an appointment. Volunteer program Sergio Martinez x224 ACT was founded by a group of volunteers in 1983. True to their history, they would not exist without the generosity, commitment and talents of volunteers. To find out more about volunteering visit: http://www.actoronto.org/home.nsf/pages/volunteer 12 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention (ASAAP) 120 Carlton St, Suite 315 www.asaap.ca Services: Monthly DOSTI support group meetings: a safe, confidential, and discreet place for guys to meet new friends and talk about whatever is on their minds. There is always fun conversations over chai and samosas! Occurs on the 4th Friday of the month, 6:00-9:00pm Online social and support information for South guys who are into guys (e.g. community events, sexual health and relationship Q&A with Munni Bai, and cruising message board). Check out www.dosti.ca or for a group with more Tamil community focus visit www.snehithan.ca. Follow ASAAP’s queer men’s groups and network on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/dosti.asaap & http://www.facebook.com/snehithan.asaap Kotha: South Asian Bathhouse Night Community outreach and workshops, 2nd Thursday of the month - Spa Excess 8:00-11:00p Psychotherapy services for South Asian gay, bisexual, questioning guys and/or people living with HIV; call for appointment or to schedule peer support counseling Support services for South Asians living with HIV: Contact: Bomi Daver, MSW (x223) Multi-lingual resources on sexual health, HIV/AIDS, and being queer available on request. Contact: Ram Sharvendiran, MSM Prevention and Tamil Outreach Coordinator 416.599.2727 ext 227 msmprevention@asaap.ca 13 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Asian Community AIDS Services (ACAS) 260 Spadina Avenue, Suite 410 www.acas.org Services include: Support services for people living with HIV Asian Bathhouse Night Workshops and outreach at Spa Excess; third Thursday of every month, 8:00-11:00p Blog and related news: http://aznbathhouse.blogspot.com/ iRice A gay Asian volunteer-based internet group in Toronto that provides education, information and social support for peers: www.iRice.org Queer Asian Youth (QAY) Social spaces for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, queer, curious, undecided, or questioning East and Southeast Asian youth and their friends. QAY organizes Bubble Tea Lounge, Movie Nites, Games Nites, and other fun events. All events are organized by QAY volunteers, and volunteers get together every month to plan the future QAY events. Event listing: http://www.qay.ca/ Volunteer program: community events and bathhouse outreach/workshops S.L.A.M. / Sex. Love. Asian Men. An interactive forum on sex, health, lifestyle and everything else: https://slam2011.wordpress.com/ Community education and advocacy; multi-lingual resources available Contacts: Daniel (Tiane) Le, Men’s Sexual Health Promoter (416) 963-4300 ext. 236 ∙ mensexualhealth@acas.org Richard Utama, Men’s Sexual Health Coordinator (416) 963-4300 ext. 235 ∙ men@acas.org 14 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Africans in Partnership Against AIDS (APAA) 314 Jarvis Street, Suite 101 416.924.5256 www.apaa.ca Services: Counseling service support@apaa.ca x303 / x304 Confidential service around most HIV-related issues. Multilingual service—some of the major African languages used include: Amharic, Arabic, Tigrinya, Swahili, French, Somalia, Jula and Dogon, Ga, Hausa, Lingala, Twi, Xhosa, Yoruba, Kiruwanda, etc. Community development anna@apaa.ca Raising Sexually Healthy Children (francophone) - by using the Community Capacity Building model, parents from ethno-specific communities are recruited and trained by Sexual Health Educators and experienced service providers from the community to talk to their children about sexuality Drop-in Centre/ Gay Men’s Programming msm@apaa.ca Talk to someone one-on-one, find out about ongoing events, and get involved Monthly gay/bi/questioning men’s group (refreshments and tokens provided): 3rd Thursday of the month, 6:00-9:00pm Emergency financial assistance This service is only available to people living with HIV/AIDS and provides them with a limited amount of financial assistance on an annual basis for medical emergencies Heterosexual Positive Men’s Group support@apaa.ca x303 / x304 The aim of the group is to bring straight-identified guys together to a safe space to freely talk about their issues, build a network, share experience. Prevention Program prevention@apaa.ca Workshops (request by email), group discussions, one-on-one sessions, HIV/AIDS resource distribution, outreach, phone counselling, and volunteer training Settlement Services APAA assists clients to get through immigration process, Housing, back to school and employment assistances in collaboration with other mainstream organizations and agencies. Contact: Davidson William, MSM Outreach Coordinator 416.924.5256 x310 msm@apaa.ca 15 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention (BLACK-CAP) 20 Victoria Street, 4th Floor 416.977.9955 www.blackcap.ca Services: Many Men, Many Voices (aka 3MV) Garfield x246 / Antoney x242 An innovative three-day, retreat-style workshop designed to build community and enhance selfesteem related to racial and sexual identity among young Black men in Toronto who identify as gay, bisexual and/or transgender. Through enhanced self-esteem and community building, the program aims to empower participants to adopt behaviour that reduces their risk for contracting and transmitting HIV and other STIs. Black Family & Friends (BFF) Garfield x246 Provides support, education, & resources to Black LGBTQI youth, their families, friends, classmates, coworkers, service providers & allies through the Love, Acceptance & Support campaign. We want to remind Black youth in the LGBTQ community that they are not alone — and that they are well supported. More information: www.blackfamiliesandfriends.ca Socialite 411 Sebastiao x252 / Antoney x242 A biweekly, drop - in peer support group for gay/bi/queer/trans/questioning male-identified youth of colour, 16-29 years old. 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month, 6-8pm. Through open discussion of sexuality, sexual health and orientation; with guest speakers, music, video & film clips, creative and interactive activities. Socialite 411 looks to address issues of identity, sex, love, race, relationships & gender. http://socialite411.wordpress.com/about/ Pepper Pot Antoney x242 A group for black guys (29 and up) who love other black guys; last Friday of the month. We’ll talk about things like brothers, men’s health, classism, sex, androgyny, discrimination, HIV, down low, sisters, bisexuality, femme, gay bashing, culture, marriage, growing up gay, trans inclusion, shadism, history, in the life, church, queens, homosexuality, bullying, education, sissies, the closet, relationships, homophobia, butch, religion, parenting, school, coming out, interracial dating, sexuality... love. MSM POZ Support Group Call for meeting dates and times. LGBT Foreign Integration group Craig x250 Newcomers & Immigration issues; Last Monday of the month, 6-9pm. Newly Diagnosed group Kemar x288 For people who are recently diagnosed with HIV and interested in learning more about treatment, coping with new diagnosis, and about how other people live with HIV. 2nd Wednesday of the month, 5-7:30pm 16 Antoney x242 / Craig x250 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Settlement program for newcomers living with HIV Kemar x288 Individual counselling, pre-employment counselling, referrals for immigration lawyers, housing and income support, health services or specialist referrals Monthly workshops: 2nd Wednesday of the month, 5-7:30pm Long term survivors group Rose x260 For people who have lived with HIV for more than 10 years; focus on treatment adherence and side effects, body image, loss and grief and resilience. Social determinants of health group Rose x260 1st Friday of the month, 6-8pm This group is focused on addressing the HIV and STI prevention needs of HIV positive clients and their partners (e.g. serodiscordant relationships) Issues addressed: disclosure, pregnancy and family planning, criminalization, proper condom use, and living well with HIV Black CAP Youth Group Mary x228 Bi-Weekly, Sundays – for guys living with or affected by HIV Kazi Workshops Jalila x270 Employment counselling for those considering returning to work ODSP/OW and pursuing employment / education Disclosure in the workplace Gaining Canadian experience HIV and workplace accommodation Interview preparation Resume and cover letter Harm Reduction Andre x254 Youth/adult workshops, street outreach, and monthly drop-in Contacts: Antoney Baccas, Men’s Outreach Coordinator 416.977.995 ext. 242 ∙ men2gether@black-cap.com Garfield Durrant, Men’s Prevention Coordinator 416.977.995 ext. 246 ∙ g.durrant@black-cap.com Craig Cromwell, LGBT Settlement Coordinator 416.977.995 ext. 250 ∙ lgbt@black-cap.com 17 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Centre for Spanish-Speaking Peoples (CSSP) – AIDS Program 40 Wellesley St. East, 4th Floor, Suite 405. Tel.: 416-925-2800 http://www.spanishservices.org Services: Chicos Net Gerardo Betancourt x 222/ Jeisson Tabares x 224 4 session group for Latino gay/bi guys to discuss issues such as the impact of immigration, sexual identity, HIV/STIs, experiences in the gay community, casual sex/bathhouses, and relationships. Runs 4x per year. Movie Nights – seasonal Gerardo Betancourt x 222 Info for newcomers living with HIV Rene Lopez x 225 STI workshops/trainings offered 4 times a year for gay/bi guys and people living with HIV Sign up via main telephone line or Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/CPGHH?ref=ts&fref=ts Connections with community health centers, HIV specialists and agency community partners Gay/Bi Youth Group Christel Perez 416-533-8545 x 520 Twice per week: Tuesdays and Fridays, 2:00-6:00pm (requires prior intake/registration) Counselling Services Celeste Joseph x 223 Short/Long term individual Psychotherapeutic Counselling (can range from mental health to HIVrelated concerns to sexuality/gender identity/relationships). Crisis Counselling by phone or in person Group Support Services on different topics (e.g. Depression, Anxiety, Coming out, Coping with New Diagnosis, Supporting a loved one, etc.) Other CSSP resources: Guys Like You/Chicos Como Tu An informative and fun photo-novela- this resource is designed for newcomer Latino gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. The narrative explores some key aspects of adapting to an openly gay culture. Contact CATIE to order a sample http://orders.catie.ca/product_info.php?products_id=25452 Contacts: Rene Lopez, Gay Men’s Outreach Coordinator 416.925.2800 ext. 225 rlopez@spanishservices.org Gerardo Betancourt, AIDS Community Educator 416.925.2800 ext. 222 gbetancourt@spanishservices.org 18 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Clinic for HIV-Related Concerns, Dept of Psychiatry, Mt Sinai Hospital 600 University Avenue Toronto, ON M5G 1X5 416-586-4800 x8714 http://www.mountsinai.on.ca/care/psych/patient-programs/hiv-clinic/hiv-clinic-programs *Referral form available online – at the request of physician or self-referral, depending on service* Services: Couple and Family Psychotherapy The psychotherapy integrates a range of therapies such as psychoanalytic, cognitive, systemic, communicational and structural. The work within the therapy is designed to meet the different needs of each couple or family. Contacts: Mary Fennessey ext. 8714 / Charlotte Chagoya ext. 8722 Emotion-Focused Meditation (EFM) Groups An eight-week group approach with a one-day retreat for HIV+ gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men Learn to cope better with difficult emotional patterns associated with internalized stigma around HIV and sexual orientation This is an approach to meditation that does not emphasize calming so much as exploration aimed at getting to know oneself more deeply and engaging more assertively in relationships and life Groups run in the spring and fall Contact: Bill Gayner ext. 8647 Narrative Competence Psychotherapy Group This is a creative opportunity for individuals living with HIV who share an interest in writing and the discussion of writing. Space is limited to 12 people. Sessions begin in January (intake interviews scheduled in the fall) and September (intake interviews scheduled prior to the summer), each year. Groups schedule: Mondays, 2:00 to 3:30 pm. Contacts: Mary Fennessey ext. 8714 19 Individual Psychotherapy Individual psychotherapy is a central focus for the work of the clinic and is offered by all of the staff members. Staff includes specialists in psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and client-centered therapy Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Crystal Meth Anonymous Toronto CMA – Interested? Just show up. The 519 Community Centre - 519 Church Street TorontoCMA@yahoo.ca Weekly meeting: Saturdays 1:30-2:30pm Episodic Disabilities Employment Network (EDEN) A Project of the Canadian Working Group on HIV and Rehabilitation (CWGHR) http://edencanada.ca/ The Episodic Disabilities Employment Network (EDEN) is a network of people living with episodic disabilities, including HIV, from across Canada who are seeking supports to find solutions to employment challenges. The issues covered by EDEN include: Disclosure in the Workplace Employment Counselling Employment Rights Extended Drug and Health Benefits Income Security Returning to Work Stigma and Discrimination Work/Life Balance Workplace Accommodation David Kelley Services, Family Service Toronto 355 Church Street 416-595-9618 www.familyservicetoronto.org Services: LGBTQ Supportive Counselling: coming out, relationship issues, gender identity, discrimination, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, isolation, parenting. Affordable payment plan. HIV-Specific Counselling: impact of diagnosis, well-being, stigma, loss, disclosure, sexual orientation, anxiety, violence & trauma, depression, etc. Free services. FREE Walk-in Counselling: Sessions are offered on a first-come first-served basis, Wednesdays from 4:008:00pm to individuals, couples and families in need of immediate support. No restrictions based on age or address. No appointment is necessary. Must arrive by 6:45pm at the latest. Counselling is offered in English, French, Spanish, Tamil and Mandarin 20 Ongoing workshops: http://www.familyservicetoronto.org/programs/dks/workshops.html E.g. Hold Me Tight: Conversations for Connection - A 10-week workshop for LGBT couples based on Sue Johnson’s “Hold Me Tight” series. Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Gay Churches - Database Listing of gay friendly churches in Ontario: http://www.gaychurch.org/Find_a_Church/foriegn_nations/Canada/canada_Ontario_ON.htm Griffin Centre - ReachOUT 24 Silverview Drive 416-222-1153 http://www.griffin-centre.org Services: Tart!: Weekly arts-based social drop-in for LGBTQ youth under 25. Projects include comic scripting, theatre, drag, and zine making. Spektrum: A popular social group for LGBTQ youth of colour under 30. Weekly activities include movies, sports, sharing stories and delicious food. Compass: A social group for LGBTQ youth under 25 labelled with intellectual disabilities. Exciting weekly activities include watching movies, workshops about sexual health & relationships, great food and fun! ReachOUT Newcomer Network: offers services for youth between the ages of 14-25 who are permanent residents of Canada and government assisted refugees. Contact: Idil Hyder, Outreach and Settlement Worker ext. 181 or newcomer@griffin-centre.org sprOUT: all about connecting LGBTQ people labelled with intellectual disabilities across Ontario. We hold fun events such as dances, BBQs, movie nights and parties. Our workshops on sexual health, self advocacy, and how to create LGBTQ positive space are co-facilitated by LGBTQ people labelled with intellectual disabilities. We also offer consultation to individuals, their families and support workers. Ismaili Queers: Advocates for Pluralism Confidential space for queer/trans-identified Ismaili Muslims. For information about socials and online support, contact ismaili.queers@gmail.com Public information & discussion forum: http://thequeerismaili.wordpress.com/ Kulanu Toronto’s Jewish LGBT social, educational, and cultural organization. http://kulanutoronto.blogspot.ca/ kulanutoronto@gmail.com 21 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line http://www.youthline.ca Services: Toll-free peer support anywhere in Ontario. That is, a free service made up of youth talking to youth, 26 and under. Contact if you have a question, concern, need to know about supports in your area, or….just need to talk! By phone: 1-800-268-9688 If you prefer online chat, add askus@youthline.ca to whatever instant messaging service you use. Volunteers available for online conversations everyday (except Saturday) from 4:00-9:30pm. Use the same address to send an email if you prefer to collect your thoughts and correspond with time between messages. LGBTOUT, University of Toronto http://lgbtout.wordpress.com/ Queer/trans social and support group for UofT students. Ontario Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf (ORAD) http://new2.orad.ca Services: Monthly socials, including a Deaf Awareness Week ASL training program @ the 519 LGBTQ friendly interpreter listing General enquiries: info@orad.ca Over the Top, City of Toronto Leslie Grove Youth Centre 1158 Queen St East (at Jones Ave) Weekly group for LGBT youth and their allies that are looking for a safe place to meet up and hang out. Includes movies, games, workshops and more. Wednesday evenings, 6:00-8:00pm. Parkdale Community Health Centre 1229 Queen Street West 416-537-2455 http://www.pchc.on.ca/ Service users must live in the neighbourhoods bounded by Bloor to the north, Lakeshore to the south, Parkside to the west and Dovercourt to the east of the CHC. Catchment requirements apply to clinical services but not LGBTQ health promotion services. Health Promotion Services: Weekly LGBTQ drop-in group to meet other queer and trans people, access resources and harm reduction supplies, and participate in socials (movies, guest speakers, discussion): Tuesdays, 2:00-4:00pm 22 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Annual Trans Day of Remembrance & Annual Pride events Contact: Connie Collinson 416-537-2455 x232 Clinical Services: Daily medical drop-in. See website for hours. Anonymous HIV testing by appointment, by phone or in person on 2nd floor Counselling and therapy Prisoners with HIV/AIDS Support Action Network (PASAN) 314 Jarvis St #100 416-920-9567 / Toll Free: 1-866-224-9978 http://www.pasan.org PASAN offers support services to prisoners, young offenders and their families, as well as to other organizations working on issues of HIV/AIDS and/ or prison. Services: Individual support counselling, case management, pre-release planning and referrals for prisoners and young offenders living with HIV/AIDS , primarily in Ontario region institutions. Ability to assist clients in accessing proper medical care and support while incarcerated, as well as help to arrange housing and medical/social support upon release. Much of this support is coordinated via telephone through collect calls, although in-person support is a possibility. The only national AIDS Hotline specifically for prisoners. They accept collect calls from prisoners across Canada at 416-920-9567 to answer questions about HIV/AIDS and help connect people to supports. Peel HIV/AIDS Network (PHAN) 160 Traders Blvd., Mississauga 905-361-0523 www.phan.ca Services: Men’s Health Information and support services on HIV/AIDS, risk assessment, STIs, sexuality, relationship concerns, and sexual orientation. HIV testing referrals and treatment option information, positive prevention for HIV+ gay and bisexual men, as well as referrals to clinics and community agencies Client Support and Care for People Living with HIV/AIDS One-on-one counselling and case management Accompaniment to appointments and advocacy Assistance with filling out applications, such as the Trillium Drug Plan Meet and greet sessions, monthly drop-in, and social groups for clients 23 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Workshops on topics such as ODSP, HIV Treatment, Dealing with Stigma and positive prevention Emergency Financial Assistance, transit tokens and food vouchers Harm/Risk Reduction Needle Exchange, Condom and Lube Distribution Street and Prescribed Drug Information Referrals to Addiction Services/Housing Contact: Aaron Maynard, Men’s Health Promotion Coordinator 905.361.0523 ext. 219 ∙ arronm@phan.ca Planned Parenthood Toronto 36B Prince Arthur Avenue 416-961-0113 www.ppt.on.ca PPT is a community based organization committed to the principles of equity and providing accessible and inclusive services to youth 13-29. PPT provides a safe space to access Clinical services, Mental Health services and Case Coordination. Clinical Services STI testing & treatment Immunizations Anonymous HIV testing (standard or rapid point of care) Primary Health care To access Clinical Services you can book an appointment or attend our drop in clinic. Call 416-961-0113 ext 121 Mental Health Services Case Coordination can offer you access to community resources, provide referrals, support and advocacy in relation to issues such as housing, obtaining a health card, legal information, obtaining a legal aid certificate, immigration and settlement information, social assistance, ODSP, emergency shelter, food banks, employment support and brief support counseling. Therapists provide confidential counselling sessions who will help you to identify and work through difficult issues affecting your life. Some of these issues may include but are not exclusive to: sexual identity, sexual orientation, coming out, depression, anxiety, mood swings, body image, substance use, stress management, settlement, family and relationship conflicts, low self esteem, the impact of abuse, trauma and violence. To access the case coordination and psychotherapy services offered at PPT, youth must complete a Mental Health Intake with the Case Coordinator, Kate Hann. Please call 416-961-0113 ext 121 to schedule an appointment. 24 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Rainbow Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health 60 White Squirrel Way 416-535-8501 x4647 1-800-463-2338 x4647 http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/care_program_and_services/addiction_programs/Pages/guide_rainbow_servi ces.aspx Rainbow Services is staffed by gay, lesbian, bisexual and straight professionals who are trained and experienced in counselling people with concerns about their use of alcohol and other drugs. Services are available to individuals with a variety of goals, including those who want to try to quit, cut down, or who would just like to gain more awareness about their drinking or drug use. Programs and Services: First Stage Treatment groups - for group times, call 416-535-8501 Ext. 7043 3 Week Day or Residential Programs are available every 8 weeks Ongoing weekly s abuse groups for Gay/Bi Men are also available. Contact 416-535-8501, ext 6784 for more info. The Gay/Bi/Trans Men's Continuing Care group accepts clients on a regular basis. Prior treatment/addiction counseling required. Contact 416-535-8501, ext 7066 Psychiatric services: Individuals who are experiencing both substance use and mental health problems can gain access to a psychiatric consultation within the service RyePride, Ryerson University Queer/trans social and support group for students at Ryerson University. www.ryepride.ca Salaam: Queer Muslim Community – Support Group c/o The 519 Church Street Community Centre www.salaamcanada.com The Salaam Support Group is directed towards providing support to and fostering a sense of community amongst queer-identified Muslims and their allies within the GTA. Discussion topics will range from sex to spirituality, relationships to health, and so on… Monthly meetings 6:30-8:00pm, 4th Tuesday of the month at the 519. Contact: salaamgroup.to@gmail.com 25 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Sherbourne Health Centre 333 Sherbourne Street 416-324-4103 (call to make an appointment) www.sherbourne.on.ca Services: LGBT Primary Health Care Treatment and monitoring of temporary and chronic illness Preventative health care including routine physicals, vaccinations and screening for disease Trans Health Care Mental health counselling for transitioning, gender identity, harassment or violence, isolation and substance abuse Support groups , workshops and links to community groups Hormone therapy and trans-specific resources & information LGBT Health Promotion Trans Partner Network: Eight-week group for partners, lovers, spouses, or significant others of transgender, transsexual or genderqueer people. Contact: info@transpartnernetwork.on.ca or call Laura at 416-324-4100 x 5096. The B-side EXPLORING BISEXUALITY: 10 week group session for people who are exploring their attraction to more than one gender or struggling with what their bisexuality means to their lives. Contact: thebside@sherbourne.on.ca for more information or to register. Gender Journeys: 11 weeks of reliable information and meaningful community connections for anyone thinking about their own gender changes. 2hr45min weekly meetings. Contact: Rupert Raj 416-324-4174 or rraj@sherbourne.on.ca for registration/waitlist information. Supportive workshops and groups for LGBT people who are questioning their gender identity, coming out, transitioning or living in difficult situations. Safe and welcoming meeting places to obtain support and information, make social connections, and learn new coping skills. Contact: Fatema Mullan at 416-324-4100 x5256 or fmullan@sherbourne.on.ca Ongoing groups Community Kitchen: Sherbourne and SOY clients learn how to prepare easy, cost-effective and nutritious meals. Drop-in; no registration needed. Free, bi-weekly: Fridays 1:30pm - 4:00pm. Contact Nicole at 416-324-4180 x.5243 26 LGBT Youth: Supporting Our Youth (SOY) – Listed separately in this resource. Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 SKETCH: Working Arts for Street Involved and Homeless Youth 180 Sudbury St. (near Queen West) 416-516-1559 info@sketch.ca / www.sketch.ca SKETCH is a community-arts development initiative for young people, ages 15-29, who are homeless or living on the margins. Based in Toronto, SKETCH engages youth from all over Canada. Open Studio (the entry point for youth to connect with SKETCH) Self-directed, skill-building activities where participants exchange ideas, cook and share meals together, care for the studio areas and incubate projects together. The space also serves as a communication hub where youth gather to discuss opportunities in employment, arts grants, and housing. A popular weekly Workshop Series connects youth to outside artists who facilitate workshops and share their ideas, skills, art processes and feedback. Youth participating in the Series get exposure to diverse artists and art techniques from around the globe. Music Recording Arts Studio and Performance Where youth discover their musical voice and skill through playful use of the studio resources, as well as formal workshops (vocal lessons, recording-engineer training, beat-making tutorials, piano lessons and lyric-writing support) Community Artists Leadership program Training and job opportunities in which SKETCH hires street-involved youth in full-time employment as Community Artists (CAs). This educational, skills-based paid internship offers training to youth who wish to develop their organizational and facilitation skills. Also: Arts Workshop series with established artists Income generation through exhibition and sales Strategic programs to increase equity and inclusion in all SKETCH activities Street Health 338 Dundad Street West 416-921-8668 www.streethealth.ca On the street, in parks, or in homeless shelters, Street Health provides healthcare to homeless and underhoused individuals. Many people living on the street avoid mainstream health services, so these programs support people in the places they spend their time. Services include: nurse-run drop-in centres, community mental health supports, The Safer Stroll program for women who work on ‘street level’, harm reduction program, access to health cards for homeless, and safe storage of important identification documents. 27 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Supporting Our Youth (SOY), Sherbourne Health Centre 333 Sherbourne St, 2nd Floor 416-324-5077 soy@sherbourne.on.ca www.soytoronto.org Community Programs: Black Queer Youth (BQY) A safe and social open space for Black, Multiracial, African/Caribbean youth under 29 who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, transsexual and questioning. Come chill, learn how to take up space, go on outings, create zines, attend workshops and just socialize with other youth! Weekly on Wednesday evenings, from 6.30-8.30pm Contacts: Lorelei King, 416-324-5083; bqy@sherbourne.on.ca Adam Benn, 416-324-4100 ext. 5283; abenn@sherbourne.on.ca ESSENCE A youth-centred group where queer, trans and/or questioning youth gather to uncover, discover and recover our deeper selves. Come learn, socialize and share wisdom through workshops, guest speakers and discussions about different non-denominational and queer-positive ideas and practicies of sprituality, faith and community. Contact: Adam Benn, 416-324-4100 ext. 5283; abenn@sherbourne.on.ca EXPRESS Targets and provides support for youth between16 and 29 who are immigrants, newcomers to Canada, refugees, refugee claimants and non-status queer and trans youth. Weekly meeting on Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. Contact: Olimpia, 416-324-5080; oboido@sherbourne.on.ca FLUID Fluid is an 8-week group for sexually-fluid, bisexual, pansexual, bi-curious, omnisexual, questioning and other youth (29 and under) who don't fit neatly into categories around sexuality. We come together to explore themes around bisexuality and sexual fluidity through group discussions, art, games and fun. Snacks and TTC tokens are provided. Tuesdays, 7-9 pm, June 5 - July 24 To register, please email soynatalyn@gmail.com or call 416-324-5077 GET OUT LBGTQ Youth A new FREE outdoor activity group for LGBTTI2ASQQ youth aged 15-29. Get Out is a SOY initiative dedicated to providing opportunities for LGB2TQ youth to get outdoors, get active in Toronto and in the Ontario Wilderness Monthly events For more information, please email getout@sherbourne.on.ca or call 416-324-4100 ext. 5283 28 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Trans Fusion Crew (TFC) Are you transgender, transsexual, genderqueer, of trans experience, or questioning your gender? Every Thursday from 5:00-8:00pm. Contact: Yegi 416.324.5078 or ydadui@sherbourne.on.ca ALPHABET SOUP An afternoon drop-in for queer and trans youth under age 20. Come chill out, grab a snack, get community resources and info, meet new people, maybe do some sewing or other craft work, or do workshops with special guests. Tuesdays 4-6pm Contacts: John Caffery jcaffery@sherbourne.on.ca Adam Benn, abenn@sherbourne.on.ca o r soy@sherbourne.on.ca Pink Ink Writing group for queer/trans youth. Pink Ink is a conscious, multi-disciplinary writing program for queer, transgender, Two Spirit and questioning youth writers in Toronto aged 14-29. Everybody's story is important. Nobody can tell your story but you. Contact: Vivek Shraya vpinkink@gmail.com SHIFT SOY's photography project, in partnership with Gallery 44 Centre for Contemporary Photography. Facilitated by Chris Ironside, this is a project for queer and trans youth, under age 29, who are interested in learning about photography, camera operation, darkroom printing, and creative expression Mentoring Programs: Community Mentoring matches a youth with a safe, screened adult in a one to one relationship. Matches are based on the needs of the youth and shared interests and values. Mentors and youth spend time together on a regular basis (once a week or so) to: meet at a coffee shop/juice bar to hang out and talk go to a movie or a play in the community explore the city together cook and share a meal celebrate birthdays and holidays, etc Monday Night Drop-In: adult mentors and youth create community together. It's a fun 'queer' space for socializing, relaxing and sharing a home cooked meal. Enjoy movie nights, arts and recreational activities and special workshops and events. Monday night (including statutory holidays) from 5:30-8:00 p.m. Contact: John 416-324-4100 x5339 or jcaffery@sherbourne.on.ca 29 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Stars Project, Delisle Youth Services 40 Orchard View Blvd. Suite 255 416-482-0081 http://www.delisleyouth.org/pages/stars-y Strong and Resilient (STARS) is a program for Queer, Trans, & Questioning youth and allies ages 13-21. Offering a range of activities and workshops including expressive arts workshops, field trips, discussion groups and nonjudgmental comprehensive drug education. STARS takes place in The Studio where you can do all kinds of performance: acting, drag, drama, dance and theatre to name a few. More information : http://www.facebook.com/theSTARSproject TBLGAY: Trans, Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay Allies at York Queer/trans social and support group for York University students. http://tblgay.yfs.ca/ Toronto People with AIDS Foundation (PWA) 200 Gerrard Street East 2nd Floor 416-506-1400 www.pwatoronto.org Services: Food Programs Essentials Market Ext 208 Clients can access the market twice a month. ‘Ensure’ is available short term with a Doctor’s referral and additional fresh fruits & veggies can be purchased through the Good Food Box Program. Hours of Operation – Wednesday and Thursday 2pm - 7pm. Food Access Ext 211 Short term, emergency meal delivery program available for clients experiencing health and mobility challenges. One-on-one support in accessing other community nutrition and food programs outside of PWA offered to all clients. Engagement Programs Ext 207 Peer Leaders Program: graduates of the OAN’s Positive Leadership Development Institute or the Committee for Accessible AIDS Treatment’s ETSN Training can come to PWA and work with PWA’s Peer Leaders Program to help create their own programming ideas. Expressive Arts Therapy: Arts based therapy that allows people to show their creativity while working on healing and self-care in partnership with Hospice Toronto. Spiritual Wellness: Working in partnership with The Church of the Redeemer and the Diocese of Toronto to offer an 8 week program which will explore definitions, principles and methods of spiritual wellness. This facilitated peer group is non-denominational and open to all regardless of spiritual or religious background. 30 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Positive Life: a 12 week life coaching program. Goals of the program will encourage people living with HIV/AIDS to: engage in the process of self-awareness/efficacy, discover they are not alone in their challenges/struggles, learn problem solving behaviours, develop appropriate goals and balance their intellectual, physical and affective need. Haircuts: Free haircuts are offered to everyone Tuesday. 1 haircut per 4 week period. PHA Community Summer Picnic: PWA teams up with other AIDS Service Organizations to organize a fun, social picnic in one of Toronto’s city parks each mid-September Holiday Programs: PWA likes to make the Holidays a little bit easier by providing services like Starry Night show, Holiday Gift Bags and Children’s Holiday Gift Cards. Pet Care Program: the vet referral program PWA works with a number of vet clinics that will offer our clients a variety of different discounts. The Essentials Market also provides cat and dog food when it is available and folks can access financial assistance for accidents & illnesses. Theater Access: PWA runs a variety of programs that give people access to things like movie tickets, passes to various events and attractions around Toronto. For folks which dependents under age 18 PWA works with Kids Up Front which provides tickets to a variety of youth oriented events across the City. PHA Engagement Ext 254 Volunteer run programming that engages PHAs in leadership roles in HIV outreach and prevention programs that support PHAs’ right to live healthy, positive, sexual lives, and to access the information, resources and tools they need. Programs include: Poz Prevention: Providing outreach from an explicitly gay PHA perspective in the bathhouse and on line chat sites Speakers Bureau: work to correct the myths and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS. Trained volunteers living with HIV/AIDS share their experiences with the public (schools, health centers, companies, social services) Dreaming & Opportunities Ext. 222 This program combines an individual’s desire to meaningfully collaborate with and contribute to the important work of PWA through volunteerism with the opportunity to increase their capacity to be fulfilled in the volunteering, working, learning, contributing and social environments of their choice. People interested in volunteering can attend a volunteer information session held the first Wednesday of every month from 7pm-8pm Income Support Programs Income & Community Liaisons Ext 212, 213, 215 Workers that can help service users access income supports including PWA’s Financial Assistance, OW and ODSP. They can also facilitate access to other resources in the community. 31 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Treatment Programs Therapeutic Care Ext 261 Complementary Therapies: Volunteer professionals and student clinics provide free complementary therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, Shiatsu, massage and Reiki to support PHA health and well-being. Community PHA Naturopathic Clinic: A student naturopathic clinic operated in partnership with the Canadian Naturopathic College, the Sherbourne Health Centre and PWA. Call 416-324-4164 for an appointment. Vitamin supplements: Vitamins can be accessed based on availability at the Service Access Workstation in reception every 6 months Treatment Access Ext 217 HIV Medication / Drug coverage: we have partnerships with many of the pharmaceutical companies to get short term compassionate access to many, but not all, of the HIV medications (e.g. those without status in Canada). We also sometimes have access to PEP (Post-Exposure prophylaxis) if individuals cannot afford their own. Medical care / Trillium: PWA can help people get onto Trillium and advocate if they need any coverage; i.e. current low income yet deductible is based on higher previous earning. Medical Marijuana: Cards to possess – we will help people figure out the long and complex forms to get their card from Health Canada enabling them to carry legally possess and grow medical marijuana. o Letter to Buyer’s clubs – PWA can make a referral for a client to the various buyers’ club that we also accept receipts to our financial assistance program for. Treatment Resources Ext. 237 Information: Treatment Bulletins – on the East wall of the Information Centre, you’ll find a variety of topics on PHA health and wellness. They are also available in Spanish & French on the spinning rack and for electronic download on the PWA website. Workshops: PWA hosts informational sessions on different topics of health and wellness. Advance registration is required. A meal is always served and it’s either a lunch or a dinner. Consultations: staff are available to meet with individuals to talk about their health and well-being living with HIV and the side effects of the medications. Note: Harm Reduction supplies are available at the Service Access Workstation or through the Treatment or Therapeutic staff. Contact: Andre Ceranto, PHA Engagement Coordinator 416-506-1400 ext. 254 aceranto@pwatoronto.org 32 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Triangle Program – Canada’s ONLY LGBTQ High School 115 Simpson Avenue 416-393-8443 www.triangleprogram.ca/ The Triangle Program is one of three programs that make up Oasis Alternative Secondary School. This full-time TDSB program offers the structure, support and a community of gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight and transgender peers as part of students’ high school education. See website for admission information, intake process, and student requirements. 33 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 INDEX 12 Step, 8 music, 9, 16 Muslims, 21, 25 abuse, 6, 8, 24, 25, 26 acting, 8, 30 alcohol, 8, 25 arts, 21, 27, 29, 30 bathhouse, 12, 14, 31 bisexual, 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 23, 25, 28, 33 churches, 21 CMA, 20 coming out, 8, 9, 16, 20, 24, 26 counselling, 5, 6, 11, 12, 15, 17, 23, 24, 25, 26 depression, 20, 24 disabilities, 20, 21 drawing, 9 drop in, 24 naturopathic, 32 newcomers, 6, 10, 17, 18, 28 Non-insured, 10 ODSP, 17, 24, 31 of colour, 16, 21 older, 9 outdoor, 28 pansexual, 28 peer support, 11, 13, 16, 22 photography, 29 poz, 4 prisoners, 23 relationships, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 25 employment, 11, 15, 17, 20, 24, 27 fathers, 8 financial, 15, 31, 32 gender identity, 7, 8, 18, 20, 26 genderqueer, 7, 8, 26, 29 HIV+, 8, 19, 23 housing, 17, 23, 24, 27 Safer Stroll, 27 settlement, 6, 24 sex workers, 7 spiritual, 4, 30 spirituality, 25 students, 8, 22, 25, 30, 33 substance use, 8, 24, 25 substances, 12 immigration, 15, 17, 18, 24 testing, 5, 10, 23, 24 trans, 4, 7, 12, 16, 21, 22, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30 treatment, 5, 12, 16, 17, 23, 24, 25 Jewish, 21 volunteer, 10, 12, 14, 15, 31 Latin, 9 living with HIV, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23, 31, 32 mental health, 4, 18, 25, 27 Multi-lingual, 13 workplace, 6, 8, 17 writing, 9, 19, 27, 29 34 youth, 7, 14, 16, 21, 22, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 Making the Links: Connecting Gay/Bi Men to HIV Prevention Programming Nov 2012 Acknowledgements: AIDS Prevention Community Investment Program - City of Toronto Hassle Free Clinic & M2Men Network: ACT, ACAS, ACYR, APAA, ASAAP, B-CAP, CSSP, HFC, PHAN Prepared by Rahim Thawer MSW, RSW November 2012