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Health Equity

What is Health Equity?

Health equity is a foundational standard that ensures health and well-being for all individuals in a community. Using a Population Health approach enables everyone to have the opportunity to live a healthy life. Equality does not mean equity. This means that even when providing everyone with equal resources and opportunities, there will be some who have no need for them or there will be some that require more or different resources and opportunities to live a healthier life. Equity recognizes that resources and opportunities delivered equally do not always meet the needs of every individual, group, or community. Services or programs delivered equitably do!

In this video, the National Collaboration Centre for Healthy Public Policy describes and defines Health Equity and what is means in the context of Public Health.

For general information about Health Equity:

For more information about Health Equity, or any questions, you can call 1-800-660-5853 and ask speak to our Health Equity Coordinator.

Our Commitment

As an organization, we strive to embed Health Equity principles within all our resources, programs, services and initiatives. Working towards an equitable future in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark is a priority and we are fortunate to have the opportunity to support Health Equity work internally, and in our communities. As an organization, we reflect and acknowledge that there is room for growth. Every day is a learning opportunity, and working towards Health Equity is a journey – one where we will continue to work and advocate for equity in our communities.

Social Determinants of Health

The Social Determinants of Health, as seen below, play an influential role in the way individuals and communities experience health. This video, created by the Sudbury and District Health Unit, shows the bigger picture of how they influence a person’s health and well-being.

  • Access to health services
  • Culture, racism, and ethnicity
  • Disability
  • Early childhood development
  • Education, literacy, and skills
  • Employment, job security, and working conditions
  • Food insecurity 
  • Gender identity and expression
  • Housing
  • Income and income distribution
  • Indigenous status
  • Personal health practices and resiliency
  • Physical environments
  • Sexual orientation and attraction
  • Social inclusion/exclusion
  • Social support networks

Health Equity in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark

Working towards Health Equity is a key principal in our Strategic Plan (coming soon). The list below highlights some of the important work, activities and initiatives happening or available in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark.

Each year, the Health Unit undergoes Nutritious Food Basket Costing, to bring awareness to the issue of food insecurity in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville. This resource shows the average cost of food alongside the cost of living expenses (i.e., rent), and income. Current research in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville indicates that individuals or families living with low income experience difficulty purchasing nutritious, balanced food following the cost of living. If you or someone you know is looking for help with getting food, there are food programs available as well as local food banks and low and no-cost meal programs.

For more information, or to speak to a Registered Dietician, you can call 1-800-660-5853.

A living wage is the minimum hourly wage a worker needs to earn in order to cover their basic expenses (i.e., housing, nutritious food, clothing etc.) and participate fully in their community. It is calculated yearly using community data and informs and advocates for discussion around what it costs to live in a given area. In 2023, the living wage for Leeds, Grenville and Lanark is $20.60. One thing an organization can do to support this movement, is become a living wage employer. Living wage employers are certified organizations or companies that reflect the values of Living Wage Ontario and pay all employees at the rate of the living wage (or more) for the region they operate in. For more information on becoming a living wage employer, click here.

SmartSAVER is a resource for Canadian individuals and families looking for financial guidance on saving for their children’s education. SmartSAVER offers toolkits for families, as well as provides valuable information on Canada’s Learning Bond.

Roots to Health – Health Equity & Well-Being

Community Services Links

Transportation Services

Family Doctor

Indigenous Working Groups

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