Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grants - Institute/Initiative Community Support

Manitoba is facing a severe public health crisis, with HIV rates three to four times the national average, alongside high rates of syphilis and hepatitis C (HCV). These infections most heavily impact northern, rural, remote, and Indigenous communities due to long-standing inequities and a lack of culturally safe healthcare. Recognizing the urgency, the province declared an HIV public health emergency in May 2026. To bridge these gaps, REACH Nexus launched the Ayaangwaamiziwin Centre, a community-led initiative using a "screen, test, treat, and connect" model to reach underserved individuals. Between 2025 and 2026, the project enrolled over 2,500 participants across the Prairies, successfully diagnosing and connecting dozens of individuals with HIV and syphilis directly to ongoing care. A key part of this success is the Rapid Test, Link and Connect (Rapid TLC) program, a partnership with the National Microbiology Laboratory. Rapid TLC brings advanced molecular testing (GeneXpert) directly into communities. This allows for same-day confirmatory results, eliminating standard laboratory delays so individuals can start treatment immediately. A recent three-day health fair in Swan River, Manitoba, proved the power of this approach: local health navigators identified 9 new HIV cases, re-engaged 26 people into HIV care, and connected 41 people to HCV treatment-all with same-day results and culturally grounded support. Backed by a new planning grant, REACH Nexus and the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network are preparing to replicate this success in The Pas, Manitoba, in fall 2026. The funding will support vital groundwork, including building local care networks with nurses, doctors, and pharmacists, and establishing rapid treatment and follow-up protocols. This initiative will provide immediate, safe care in The Pas while creating a blueprint for other northern communities.