Featured in the Ottawa Hunger Report is the African, Caribbean & Black (ACB) Wellness Resource Centre – a food cupboard within the Ottawa Food Bank network of 71 member agencies and 98 food programs. ACB Wellness Resource Centre stands as Ottawa’s first and only hub dedicated to the African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities. Founded by Toni Jacob in May 2021, ACB Wellness Resource Centre has rapidly evolved from a humble food cupboard into a vital resource centre, addressing the pressing needs of local residents.
ACB Wellness Resource Centre is a welcoming home for all community members, regardless of their background. “This is a place where we offer different supports for everyone,” Toni explains. “We have something for everybody.” The centre offers a range of vital services, including:
Food Cupboard:
Initially serving about 20 families, the food cupboard now supports nearly 1,000 families each month, highlighting the significant increase in demand for food assistance in the community. Toni likens the food cupboard to “just one bedroom in the house,” emphasizing that while it’s a crucial part of ACB’s offerings, the centre encompasses much more in its mission to support individuals and families.
Health and Wellness Programs:
Collaborating with Ottawa Public Health, ACB provides essential services such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, diabetes screenings, and dental check-ups. The centre also hosts social gatherings for seniors and youth programs focused on personal development and financial literacy.
Employment Support:
Understanding the unique challenges newcomers face, ACB offers programs tailored for men that include resume building and interview preparation, helping many secure jobs in the Canadian market.
Toni’s vision for ACB Wellness Resource Centre is deeply personal. Growing up in Ottawa, she wished for a supportive community space that truly understood her needs. Today, ACB Wellness Resource Centre embodies that vision, tackling crucial issues like food insecurity and mental health while fostering a strong sense of community.
Despite its successes, ACB Wellness Resource Centre grapples with significant challenges, particularly in securing adequate funding. Toni reflects, “The biggest thing we’re lacking is the resources.” She emphasizes the necessity for government support comparable to that given to larger organizations, highlighting the importance of investing in grassroots initiatives that directly serve the community.
“The people who come here are family to me,” Toni shares, illustrating the deep connections formed at the centre. “When I see them in the grocery store, they know my name. That fills my heart.” ACB Wellness Resource Centre not only provides essential services; it cultivates an atmosphere where individuals feel valued and connected.
Toni’s unwavering commitment to the ACB Wellness Resource Centre reflects her belief that “food is a right.” Her advocacy for the needs of newcomers and long-time residents alike underscores the importance of community support. With continued backing and resources, ACB Wellness Resource Centre can expand its reach and empower even more individuals who walk through its doors.
To learn more about ACB Wellness Resource Centre and how you can support their work, visit acbwellness.ca.
