Impact Analysis of COVID 19 on Mental Wellness of ACB
The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the pre-existing health inequalities and systemic racism that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, particularly those of Indigenous and African, Carribean and Black backgrounds as well as people of color. This made it more imperative to develop targeted interventions that prioritize the health and well-being of marginalized communities and work towards creating a more equitable and just healthcare system for all.
AFYA Equity Hub
The AFYA Equity Hub, was born out of the Intersectoral Action Fund Project funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. The project brought together individuals with/without lived experience and organizations to address the four key social determinants of health: income, employment, education, social support, and coping skills (mental health). An advisory board was formed, with 37 individuals/organizations showing interest. Three sub-advisory groups: education, income & employment, and mental health, were formed with the final 22 people that committed to the project. Over five months, the subgroups met to develop recommendations based on lived experiences, expectations, and organizational encounters to improve/achieve ACB health equity.