Toronto Social Capital Grantees
Ontario Brain Injury Association (OBIA)
OBIA enhances the lives of Ontarians living with the effects of acquired brain injury (ABI) through education, awareness and support. The Association addresses the stigma and in turn, feelings of distrust that can come with the cognitive, physical and behavioural challenges experienced following brain injury, as well as disconnects with social networks, police, healthcare systems, etc.
Over 50% of homeless people in Toronto are living with a brain injury and up to 60% of those in the criminal justice system have a history of traumatic brain injury.
Source: Sources: Traumatic Brain Injury in the Homeless Population: A Toronto Study, Journal of Correctional Health Care: Prevalence of traumatic brain injury in an offender population: A meta-analysis.
Brain injuries don’t discriminate. They can happen to anyone at any time. OBIA prioritizes partnerships to support diverse, vulnerable and marginalized populations.
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Captions:
Top Right: OBIA staff connect with local brain injury associations and MPPs at the Brain Injury Awareness Month kick-off event at Queen’s Park (2019).
Bottom Left: Vijaya Kantipuly and Katy Kumar, OBIA Staff, taking a moment to admire the ‘Unmasking Brain Injury’ artwork painted by members of local brain injury associations at the Brain Injury Awareness Month kick-off event at Queen’s Park (2019).
We acknowledge we are on the traditional territories of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. While Indigenous communities in Toronto remain strong, vibrant, and resilient, they need support to address and overcome the impact of colonialism and systemic inequalities. Furthering Indigenous reconciliation and sovereignty are integral to achieving a more fair and just society where everyone can thrive.
We aim to be an ally and to fund local Indigenous organizations.