Community-Based Prevention

There are several ways to prevent HIV and hepatitis C. Making sense of it all can feel confusing and overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At RHAC, we’re here to help you understand your options and support you to make informed decisions about what’s right for you and your wellbeing.

Finding Community-Based Support 

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t effectively address the specific needs of communities and individuals most impacted by HIV. That’s why we’re committed to community-based approaches to HIV prevention — to help address and respect your unique needs and the needs of specific populations. 

Get in touch with us to start the conversation! RHAC’s Education team is available to answer questions, provide information, and share resources about HIV prevention and sexual health for people of all HIV statuses (positive, negative and unknown). Whether you’re a community member, a community group or a service provider, we can help you build knowledge, understanding and capacity about HIV, harm reduction, and more!

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Priority Population Networks + Programs

HIV can affect anyone. However, some communities experience increased vulnerability to HIV due to oppression, stigma, discrimination, and other barriers. Many people face a higher risk for HIV as the result of social and economic factors that create health inequities, negatively impact health outcomes, and make it harder to access the services they need and deserve.  

Belonging to a specific community is not itself a risk factor for HIV.  Everyone is impacted by the by a variety of factors and experiences differently. We’re here to help you find services, supports and resources to meet your unique priorities and needs. 

Regional HIV/AIDS Connection is working to address these inequities through the work we do. In Ontario,  some populations are disproportionately affected by HIV. RHAC has increased its focus on providing education and community development services to address the unique needs of each priority population.

You can connect with a relevant team member and learn more about work being done locally and across the province for and by members of each of the following communities.

Other Resources

• HelloOntario
• ConnexOntario

Peer-Led Initiatives

Peers are people who share life experiences similar to those we serve. Peers can be a powerful source of support to marginalized community members, people living with HIV, and individuals who use substances. In delivering our services to diverse communities, we continuously strive to build a sense of belonging and connection through peers with lived/living experience across our programs.