Peel’s Black Health and Social Services Hub opens to the public

By KATHRYN FRASER

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On August 28, Peel's Black Health and Social Services Hub hosted their Grand Opening.

The event included a Kids Zone with face painting, games, a bouncy castle and ice cream truck, free health care on-site screenings, and a tour of the Hub. 

Attendees of the celebration also had the ability to meet many of the practitioners that work at the Hub and learn more about the programs they offer. 

This opening marked a significant milestone and will be able to help many members in the community while providing support in a variety of areas, including mental health, social services, physiotherapy and many more. 

“Today is more than a ribbon-cutting, it's a celebration of what's possible when a community's needs shape the solution, not the other way around. For too long, Black residents in Peel have had to navigate a system that wasn't built with them in mind,” says the Hub's Director of Integrated Operations Hope Ramsay. “This Hub changes that. Every service here, from primary care to mental health support and social services, was designed by and for our community, so people can walk through our doors and see themselves reflected in the care they receive. We can't wait to celebrate this moment with the community that made it possible.” 

The area was filled with many members of the community who were left in awe of the Hub and all of the services that were offered. 

Peel Emergency Services were also there to show the support and check out the space. 

The Hub includes a variety of rooms available to those using the services – from activity rooms to family exam rooms to multifaith rooms there is something for all members looking to be part of the Hub. 

As the Hub is spread over one floor, the area is easily accessible to all. 

Some of the highlighted programs within the Black Health and Social Services Hub include diabetes education, prenatal care, cancer screening, chronic disease management, gynaecological care, addiction support, trauma counselling, assertive community treatment (ACT), early psychosis intervention (EPI), caregiver support sessions, Moms2Be Loved, a program to provide pregnant and expecting mothers with a safe and welcoming space, and much more. 

For more information about Peel's Black Health & Social Services Hub, visit bhsshubpeel.ca.