REPORT: Advancing Black Health Strategy in Ontario

In November 2020, the Black Health Committee (BHC) recognized the importance of advancing a Black health strategy to address the structural barriers and social determinants of health for Black Ontarians. Focus was given to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, anti-Black racism, and its impact on Black communities in accessing health services and maintaining good […]

Prescriptions for a Healthy Recovery: Decent Work for All

A new report from the Decent Work and Health Network shows how low wages, lack of paid sick days, and absence of workplace protections undermined public health during the pandemic. With Ontario entering a 6th wave and restrictions being lifted, workers in low-wage and precarious employment are yet again being abandoned without protections.  In the […]

Chat with PM Justin Trudeau on Toxic Drug supply and overdose crisis

On Thursday, March 17, Parkdale Queen West CHC was pleased to host the team of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, MP Arif Virani and MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith–it was truly whirlwind event! Thank you to Nanky, Bronwen, Matt, Gab, Board member Rozita and our colleagues from South Riverdale CHC, and from BC  Kilala Lelum Health Centre (Urban […]

PRESS RELEASE: The Government of Canada announces additional funding to four safer supply pilot projects

The original press release can be read here These investments will help respond to the toxic illegal drug supply and prevent overdose in Ontario and British Columbia TORONTO, March 17, 2022 /CNW/ – The evidence is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to a worsening of the overdose crisis, which continues to affect individuals, families and communities across Canada every […]

PRESS RELEASE: High Levels of Hazardous Chemicals Found in Canadian Nail Salons

A recent University of Toronto study, in collaboration with Parkdale Queen West Community Heath Centre and the Healthy Nail Salons Network, shows that nail technicians in discount salons are exposed to several chemicals widely used as plasticizers and flame retardants. The study, to be published Feb. 14 in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, found […]

PRESS RELEASE: Community Crisis Support Service Pilot

On January 19, Mayor John Tory announced details of the new Community Crisis Support Service pilot and the four community partners that will help implement and deliver the service starting this spring. As detailed in a staff report going to Executive Committee on January 26, the new Community Crisis Support Service will provide a community-led […]

REPORT: Opioid-Related Toxicity during the COVID-19

In Ontario, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the ongoing opioid overdose crisis, leading to a significant rise in unintentional deaths due to opioid-related toxicity. Specifically, between February 2020 – the month before Ontario declared a State of Emergency due to COVID-19 – and December 2020, there was a 79% increase in the number of opioid-related […]