Your Space for Healing and Wellness
At AMANI, we are dedicated to providing culturally affirming mental health and/or substance use support for Black youth aged 14–29 across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
MENTAL HEALTH & SUBSTANCE USE SERVICES FOR BLACK YOUTH
Who We Are
AMANI is the first-ever Canadian hospital and community partnership focused on advancing mental health care for Black youth. We represent a provincial network of organizations dedicated to supporting Black youth as they navigate mental health and/or substance use challenges.
Our approach is Africentric, healing-centered, and rooted in the values of anti-oppression and anti-racism. At AMANI, we strive to create a safe and welcoming space where youth can access the care they need.
Through collaboration with the Toronto Northwest Justice Centre and guidance from our Black Youth Advisory Panel, AMANI ensures that services remain responsive and community-driven. These partnerships empower youth to advocate for systemic change while shaping a mental health care system that truly meets their unique needs.
Culturally Responsive Care
At AMANI, we honor the rich and diverse cultural heritage of African, Caribbean, and Black communities. Africentrism is central to our approach, emphasizing the import, respect, and dignity afforded to persons of African descent. We celebrate the multitude of African cultural expressions and values, recognizing that Black communities in Canada are not a monolith.
Whether multi-generation Canadians or newcomers from Africa, the Caribbean, South or Central America, England, the United States, or elsewhere, all Black-identifying youth are welcomed here. Our care combats a complex history of anti-Black racism and colonialism while uplifting and supporting youth in their journey towards self-determination and wellness.
Our Services
AMANI offers a range of confidential, personalized services designed to support your wellness journey. These include:
Reach Out for Support
- Are you experiencing mental health or substance use challenges (including alcohol and cannabis)?
- Do you proudly identify as Black?
- Are you between the ages of 14 and 29?
- Do you live in the Greater Toronto Area?
If you identify with the statements above, AMANI is a program you may benefit greatly from.
AMANI at TAIBU Community Health Centre:
- All AMANI staff at TAIBU Community Health Centre identify as Black;
- AMANI clients at TAIBU Community Health Centre can have telephone, video call, or in-person appointments. In person appointments happen in a wheelchair accessible building;
- We define Africentricity as embracing and empowering people of African descent with dignity, self-determination, and resilience.
The 7 Principles of Kwanzaa in Action at AMANI
Umoja (Unity):
Building a supportive community that uplifts Black youth and families.
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination):
Encouraging youth to take charge of their mental wellness journey.
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility):
Partnering with families, caregivers, and communities for comprehensive care.
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics):
Advocating for equitable access to wellness resources and opportunities.
Nia (Purpose):
Supporting youth in achieving their goals and aspirations.
Kuumba (Creativity):
Offering innovative, culturally affirming programming.
Imani (Faith):
Promoting hope and confidence in the resilience of Black youth.
Get in touch with your AMANI team at TAIBU Community Health Centre
Call: 416-679-2735 x212
Email: info@taibuchc.ca
AMANI across Ontario
The AMANI Mental Health & Substance Use Program is available in eight communities across Ontario. For details about other locations and to learn more about AMANI, visit the AMANI website.
