Community Safety and Wellbeing Program for Black Families

Ifarada is a proud recipient of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Program funded by the Region of Durham

Overview: The Community Safety and Wellbeing Program is dedicated to supporting families in creating safer, healthier, and more resilient communities. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by families in today’s society, this program provides a range of services, resources, and Africentric supports designed to address both immediate crises and long-term well-being. We aim to empower families, support mental health, promote safety, and foster positive community connections.

This program is built on an Africentric foundation, focusing on healing, strength, and cultural empowerment. Through our crisis phone line, support services, and community-building initiatives, we aim to ensure that all Black families have access to the tools they need to thrive.

Key Features of the Program

1. Crisis Phone Line for Immediate Support

Our Kujali Family Support Phone Line is available to families who are experiencing emergencies, mental health challenges, or safety concerns. Whether you are facing a family conflict, encounter concerns with your child’s mental health, or navigating a personal crisis, our team of trained professionals is ready to offer immediate support, guidance, and resources.

• Available daily for families facing emergencies or crises.
• Confidential and culturally informed support from trained counselors and caseworkers.
• Assistance for a wide range of issues, including domestic violence, mental health challenges, racial trauma, community violence, and family conflict.
• Direct referrals to relevant local services, such as social services, shelters, mental health providers, and legal aid.

2. Africentric Mental Health & Wellness Support

We believe in a holistic approach to mental health that is deeply rooted in Africentric principles of community, spirituality, and healing. Our Africentric Mental Health and Wellness Services provide culturally relevant counseling, therapy, and support groups for families.

• Therapeutic Services: Individual and family counselling with licensed therapists who understand the unique cultural and social dynamics of Black families.
• Group Therapy: Culturally informed support groups where Black families can share experiences, heal, and gain strength from one another.
• Restorative Practices: Sessions focused on healing from trauma, including racial trauma, grief, and intergenerational challenges.
• Spiritual & Community Healing: Integrating spiritual practices and community resources to promote healing and resilience. This may include spiritual counselling, ancestral healing, or cultural rituals designed to restore balance and well-being.

3. Safety Promotion Programs

Our program provides resources and strategies to improve safety at home and in the community. These services include:

• Safety Planning: Support for families to create personalized safety plans that address potential risks, including domestic violence, neighbourhood violence, and mental health crises.
• Conflict Resolution: Programs that teach conflict resolution and communication strategies to reduce violence in the home and community.

4. Educational Resources and Family Empowerment

The program offers educational workshops and resources to help families navigate critical life skills, such as parenting, financial literacy, and accessing community services.

• Parenting Workshops: Empowering parents with knowledge and strategies to foster healthy child development, manage discipline, and build strong family bonds.
• Financial Literacy: Workshops on budgeting, saving, and creating financial security for families.
• Legal Support: Access to legal resources and referrals for families navigating issues related to housing, custody, domestic violence, or discrimination.

How to Access Support

• Crisis Phone Line: Available daily 10 am to 6 pm at 437-500-3496. Call or text for immediate assistance, whether you’re facing an emergency or need support navigating a challenging situation.
• In-Person Services: We offer in-person counselling sessions, support groups, and workshops at various community centers.
• Online Resources: Visit our website at Kujenga Family Wellness for online mental health resources, downloadable safety planning guides, and information on upcoming events and workshops.
• Community Referrals: Our program connects families to a wide network of local organizations, including housing, healthcare, and education services, to ensure holistic support.

Why Africentric Supports Matter

Africentric supports are essential to addressing the specific needs of families, acknowledging the history and ongoing impact of systemic racism, and celebrating the richness of African cultural heritage. This program is designed to uplift families by incorporating culturally relevant healing practices, fostering community connections, and promoting wellness through the lens of African traditions.

• Cultural Competency: Our team members and service providers are trained in cultural competency and are sensitive to the unique challenges faced by families, including the trauma caused by racial discrimination.
• Healing from Racial Trauma: Many Black and racialized families experience racial trauma that affects their mental health and well-being. Our program includes services specifically designed to help individuals and families heal from these experiences.
• Community-Centered Approach: The program emphasizes the importance of strong, supportive communities. We provide a safe space for families to come together, share experiences, and strengthen their ties with one another.

Our Commitment

Our commitment to families goes beyond just offering services; we are dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where families can heal, grow, and thrive. We understand the unique challenges faced by Black families, and our mission is to provide resources that are not only practical and accessible but also affirming and empowering.

We are here to support families in every aspect of their safety, well-being, and mental health. We invite you to reach out, participate in our programs, and help us build a stronger, safer community for all.

Contact Information:

• Crisis Phone Line: 437-500-3496 (Available 10 am- 6pm)
• Email: info@blackfamilysupport.org
• Website: [Kujali Line: Black Family Support

For more information about the Community Safety and Wellbeing Program or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. Together, we can ensure that families have the resources, support, and community they need to thrive.

Program Partners and Collaborators

This program is made possible through partnerships with local organizations, mental health professionals, cultural institutions, and community leaders who share our vision of creating stronger, safer Black families. Together, we are building a network of support that empowers families to flourish.

This Community Safety and Wellbeing Program for Families centers on the importance of culturally competent care, Africentric healing practices, and community solidarity to ensure that every family has the support they need to navigate and overcome challenges while prioritizing their overall safety and well-being.

Funded by: