Partners
The Community of Practice is led by Ottawa Public Health, South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre, and the Ottawa Health Team-Équipe santé Ottawa. It works with community health centers, the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa, the African Caribbean Black Wellness Centre, Ottawa Community Housing, the City of Ottawa, and the Community Development Framework.
Goals and Collaboration Approach
The community shares timely public health information amongst partners at the Health and Wellbeing Sector Table. It amplifies community voices and shares best practices. Partners support each other in facing challenges. The focus is on health equity and community-centered strategies.
The initiative aims to provide timely public health information, amplify community voices, share best practices, and support each other in tackling challenges marginalized communities face. It has evolved to address broader health equity needs and promote community-centred strategies.
Activities
Starting in the fall of 2020, the initiative held weekly meetings, later moving to bi-weekly sessions. Partners shared knowledge, discussed health equity, and developed communication strategies. They coordinated outreach and organized town hall activities. They aimed to support people in 21 neighbourhoods, especially racialized groups, newcomers, and those in shelters and hotels.
Link to the Ottawa Immigration Strategy
The initiative supports priority number one of the Ottawa Immigration Strategy. This priority aims to improve newcomers’ access to healthcare. By enhancing access to preventive, primary, and dental services, the initiative helps marginalized communities receive essential care and promotes well-being.
Timelines and Milestones
Launched in fall 2020, the initiative has updated its goals to focus on health equity beyond COVID-19. It works with the Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership to align strategies and maximize community engagement. The aim is to empower frontline partners and drive positive change.
Impact Areas and Client Outcomes
The initiative brought together frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provided a space to address health equity issues through open discussions. Partners worked together to overcome barriers and support marginalized voices. The initiative created a strong sense of solidarity and shared responsibility.
Conclusion
The Community of Practice has been key for collaboration and knowledge sharing. It supported marginalized communities during the pandemic and continues to do so. The initiative will keep reviewing goals and working with the Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership to enhance its impact. It shows how collaboration can advance health equity and social justice.
