By Caribbean News Global 
TORONTO, CANADA – Carolyn Bennett, minister of mental health and addictions and associate minister of health, announced $2.8 million in funding to the Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC). With this funding, CBRC is delivering “Investigaytors,” a 2SLGBTQI+ focussed community-based health leadership program that fosters important resources for good mental health, including mental health literacy, social connection and problem-solving skills.
In addition to reaching 13,000 2SLGBTQI+ individuals through this project, CBRC is also developing and mobilizing 2SLGBTQI+ mental health resources to increase the knowledge and capacity of 11,000 stakeholders, including health care providers and policymakers, to design and deliver culturally competent and safe care for 2SLGBTQI+ populations.
“As we recognize the beginning of Mental Health Week 2023, [May 1], we remain committed to promoting positive mental health for everyone, particularly individuals from 2SLGBTQI+ communities who already face disproportionate challenges to their mental health due to discrimination and social exclusion,” noted the Public Health Agency of Canada, press release.
“Today’s announcement builds on the government of Canada’s investments in budget 2023, including our plan to invest nearly $200 billion over 10 years to improve healthcare services for Canadians, reduce surgical backlogs, support health workers, and improve integrated mental health and substance use services. We will continue to do whatever it takes to provide all Canadians with the mental health and substance use supports they need, whenever and wherever they need them.”
“Our government recognizes the importance of supporting the mental health and substance use needs 2SLGBTQIA+ communities who already face disproportionate challenges to their mental health. As we work to improve Canada’s universal health care system, [today’s] funding will enable more people with lived and living experience, front-line workers and experts to support the mental health and well-being of thousands more 2SLGBTQI+ individuals from coast to coast to coast,” said minister Bennett.
