03/19/2026
“The response to HIV has always relied on community. The AIDS crisis is a history of tragic losses, hard-won progress, and communities who came together when no one else would. Around the world, small groups of community members stepped up to support the same people their governments chose to ignore. These community groups showed up for dear friends and complete strangers alike. They cooked meals. They raised money. They mourned the dying and celebrated the living. No act was too small. Every kindness was needed. People did what they could, because they cared. Things only changed for the better when ordinary people united with hope, love, and solidarity. The same holds true today. Plenty of progress has been made since those earlier days. HIV still exists, but community support makes a profound difference for the people living longer, healthier lives with HIV.
RHAC recently shared news of the provincial decision to defund London’s supervised consumption program. This service has been an important part of our efforts to prevent HIV transmission and reduce drug-related harms and deaths. This decision does not affect funding for other RHAC programs, such as HIV Support Services. However, it does reflect a devastating trend that UNAIDS calls a “funding crisis.” Around the world, financial cuts and program closures have slowed the global response to HIV/AIDS. With lives on the line, these are setbacks we cannot afford to make.
With provincial funding for supervised consumption set to expire in June, RHAC is navigating the impacts of this decision. In the meantime, RHAC places the highest priority on maintaining the best supports possible for the people we serve. Our valued funders and donors continue to ensure that RHAC’s additional client programs continue to support people living with, at risk for, and affected by HIV and hepatitis C. Fundraised dollars, from events like A Taste for Life, are critical to supporting these additional programs.
This time of year is when RHAC typically invites community to celebrate A Taste for Life. On April 15, our annual fundraiser returns to local restaurants, where 25% of proceeds will support client programs and services. In light of recent events, it can be hard to imagine any kind of celebration. Then again, this is precisely when we need our community the most. History teaches us that these are the moments when we can come together for the better, and for each other. This year, we hope that A Taste for Life continues to be a meaningful way to make a positive impact, even in the most difficult times. The funding crisis shows how fragile the fight against AIDS and HIV stigma can be. But the support of our community proves how strong we are.
A Taste for Life is when caring community members make all the difference, and I hope you can make it on April 15. Thank you to our friends, champions, and supporters for being a constant source of support. I also want to acknowledge the generosity of A Taste for Life’s 2026 Presenting Sponsor TD Bank Group and Supporting Sponsor Kim Mullan, Broker Sutton Group Select Realty Inc., Brokerage. I am touched by the new and returning restaurants who are opening their doors to our cause. Most importantly, thank you to the people we serve for entrusting us with your care and support.”
Martin McIntosh
Executive Director, Regional HIV/AIDS Connection
