In a major recognition of dedication and repair to Canada’s multicultural communities, the Caribbean Digicam and its writer, Anthony Joseph, had been lately honoured by the Nationwide Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada. This prestigious group, which represents over 600 media homes throughout the nation, acknowledged the newspaper’s outstanding contribution to the Black and Caribbean communities. The award, which was introduced in late December 2024, celebrates the Caribbean Digicam’s dedication to management, dedication, and group involvement.
For over 35 years, Caribbean Digicam has served as a significant supply of reports and knowledge, highlighting the achievements, struggles, and contributions of Black and Caribbean people throughout Canada. This award underscores the paper’s unwavering mission to supply a voice to traditionally marginalized communities, making certain their tales are advised and their points are addressed.
Whereas the popularity of Caribbean Digicam was a spotlight of the night, a unprecedented particular person was additionally celebrated for her vital affect on group well being. Cheryl Prescod, Government Director of the Black Creek Neighborhood Well being Centre, was honored for her tireless work in offering important healthcare providers to a few of Toronto’s most susceptible populations.
Prescod, who has led the Black Creek Neighborhood Well being Centre for over a decade, has devoted her profession to making sure that newcomers and marginalized teams obtain equitable healthcare entry. Beneath her management, the group has expanded its providers to handle the distinctive well being challenges confronted by immigrants, refugees, and low-income residents.
One of many heart’s most crucial initiatives was the institution of the Bridging Clinic, which was created in response to the inflow of African asylum seekers to Canada. Recognizing the pressing want for medical care amongst people missing official healthcare documentation, Prescod and her group stepped as much as present important well being assessments, medicine, and assist. Many of those people had fled dire circumstances, arriving in Canada with out entry to vital prescriptions or medical steering.
The Black Creek Neighborhood Well being Centre additionally performs a significant position in addressing continual well being points that disproportionately affect Black and Caribbean populations, comparable to diabetes and hypertension. The middle affords specialised packages, together with diabetes training and assist, life-style counseling, and help in accessing inexpensive medicine. Moreover, it collaborates with group organizations such because the Jamaican Canadian Affiliation to host well being festivals and outreach packages, making certain that very important healthcare data reaches those that want it most.
Past diabetes administration, the middle acknowledges the broader well being disparities confronted by Black ladies, notably in maternal and reproductive well being. With a scarcity of gynecologists and obstetricians serving racialized communities, Prescod and her group work tirelessly to attach expectant moms with important prenatal and postnatal care, making certain higher well being outcomes for each moms and infants.
With two principal areas at Jane and Wilson and Yorkgate Mall within the Jane and Finch space, in addition to outreach providers extending into senior houses and shelters, the Black Creek Neighborhood Well being Centre stays deeply embedded locally it serves.
Reflecting on her work, Prescod said, “I don’t do that for recognition, however as a result of I see myself locally we serve. I perceive the struggles of immigrants and people dealing with systemic limitations to care. That’s what drives me to do that work day-after-day.”
The awards introduced to each Caribbean Digicam and Cheryl Prescod spotlight the important contributions of media and healthcare in strengthening Canada’s various communities. As these organizations proceed their work, their affect resonates far past the awards they obtain, fostering a extra inclusive and equitable society for all.
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LJI Reporter
