A Historic Closure for a Lifesaving Organization

In a bittersweet turn of events, Canada’s oldest and largest HIV service organization, the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT), will shut down operations in March 2026 after an impressive 42 years of dedicated service. Founded in 1983 amidst the initial panic of the HIV/AIDS crisis, ACT has been a lifeline for countless individuals, offering peer support, mental health resources, and championing crucial advocacy to fight the stigma surrounding HIV.

A Transforming Landscape in HIV Treatment

The decision to close ACT stems from a significant decline in service requests, a direct result of groundbreaking advancements in HIV treatment and prevention. Life-changing medications have transformed HIV from a terminal diagnosis into a manageable condition, enabling individuals to lead long, healthy lives and significantly reducing transmission risks.

From Crisis Support to Comprehensive Care

In its early days, ACT focused on providing urgent crisis support, primarily from those who had lived through the trauma of the epidemic. As time went on and treatments improved, the organization adapted its services to address broader issues. According to executive director Ryan Lisk, clients began to seek assistance in areas like employment, housing, and mental health—issues that emerged as people transitioned from crisis mode to rebuilding their lives.

Evolving Challenges: Aging with HIV

Now, the organization has shifted its focus towards supporting an aging population of individuals living with HIV. Many who were diagnosed during the 1980s are now facing the dual challenges of aging and living with a chronic condition. Lisk notes the importance of helping those who outlived their peers and are now dealing with social isolation.

Bridging the Gap: Coordinating Future Support

Over the next six months, ACT staff will work diligently to transition their current clients to other supportive organizations, including Women’s Health in Women’s Hands and HQ Toronto, which offer essential health services tailored for the needs of those with HIV. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the legacy of support continues even after ACT's closure.

Rising Infections Highlight Ongoing Need for Services

Interestingly, the closure of ACT arrives at a time when new HIV infections are on the rise in Canada, with 2,434 cases diagnosed in 2023—a staggering 35% increase from the previous year. This underscores the crucial need for ongoing education and resources as many still feel uncomfortable discussing HIV with healthcare providers.

A Call to Action for Continued Support

Lisk emphasizes the urgent need for funding and services that promote HIV testing and treatment, particularly for vulnerable populations without insurance. As the landscape changes, it is vital that new organizations rise to address these enduring challenges, ensuring that HIV remains a manageable condition and not a life sentence.