HIV Support Services
Treatment + Supports
All of our HIV Support Services are available to clients living with HIV who complete an intake with our HIV Support Services Team. Get in touch with us to learn more about our services and intake process!
Our Case Managers are here to support clients with service navigation, referrals, and application support to programs like Ontario Works (OW), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), or Rent-Geared-to-Income Housing. We can also support clients with advocacy and referrals to support for legal matters and identification. We can also assist in connecting clients with HIV-related health care services.
Clients can access our once-monthly food pantry program to help meet their nutritional needs. The program is offered on a first-come, first-served basis in the middle of every month. The pantry provides non-perishable food items, as well as meat, vegetables, and fruit when available. While clients are responsible for transporting themselves and their food items, we can provide bus tickets to offset the cost of transportation.
When To Join Us: Our food pantry program runs once a month (usually on the 15th, unless the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday): 10:00am-4:00pm
Our team can support rides to medically-necessary appointments for clients diagnosed with HIV who have completed an intake. Transportation is available during our regular office hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"Please note that advance notice is required to ensure availability for transportation assistance on a specific day.
Financial assistance is available for HIV-positive clients who have emergency or “one-time” expenses related to their wellness, which are not covered by any other benefits or existing resources in the community. WAF is discussed on a case-by-case basis with assigned Case Managers.
Counselling is available at RHAC for those living with, at risk for, and affected by HIV/AIDS, including partners or family members. Through counseling, clients may explore issues such as grief and loss, sexual health, disclosure, pre- and post-test counselling, or whatever else they may be coping with.
Please note: RHAC is not a crisis service. We can support clients in navigating local crisis resources. We can also help clients to create safety plans and explore their options. Our team members are not certified counsellors and are not meant to replace the role of qualified therapists or counsellors.
Social + Peer Supports
Social events are an important opportunity to support people living with HIV, who may experience isolation due to HIV stigma. Client events and programs offer a supportive space for people living with HIV to connect with peers. Be sure to check our events page for dates, times and locations!
RHAC’s Women’s Programming is meant to provide a safe and supportive social setting for women living with HIV to build community and share experiences. The group meets eight times a year for social programming, including meals, art-based activities, or structured discussions.
Offered approximately 8 times per year.
Eligibility criteria: Our women’s programming welcomes all women, including cisgender and transgender women. Participants will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement.
Throughout the year, HIV Support Services organizes Lunch n’ Learn sessions for clients to meet team members and join discussions or presentations about practical supports over a free lunch.
Every December, clients and their loved ones are welcomed to celebrate the holiday season with a traditional holiday dinner.
Contact
Ala Krivov
Jaime Foxton