Together in thanks: ARCH Fundraiser

This GoFundMe aims to raise funds for ARCH and its staff in their time of need as they navigate this unexpected closure. Funds will be given to ARCH for urgent needs including staff severance, additional closure fees, as well as provide resources for community members who are being affected by the closure, including supporting the Marley Yott Transgender Wellness Fund.

We are deeply devastated by the loss of ARCH, an organization in so-called Guelph that provided essential support and services to vulnerable communities through women’s community work, harm reduction, trans support programs, trans healthcare, HIV support programs, HIV healthcare, and more.

ARCH closed on March 31st after the Ministry of Health cut their funding. Over the past two years, ARCH has rallied to keep providing support to their community despite the precarious situation our provincial government has placed them in, time and time again. We have so much respect and love for the hardworking, passionate staff who have dedicated so much to serving their community. Staff have been destabilized by this closure, despite all they’ve done for our community.

Furthermore, countless vulnerable community members are being thrust into instability as ARCH provided uniquely compassionate and comprehensive care for people who are otherwise isolated in a world where their needs and experiences are often not respected. As we see an alarming increase in anti-trans legislation across Canada, it comes as no surprise that our government would deprioritize the kinds of services that ARCH offered to trans community members in need, along with harm reduction services and healthcare for other vulnerable populations. Harm reduction is trans healthcare. Sexual health is trans healthcare. ARCH provided life-saving care.

We are a small group of community members who are not only saddened and concerned by ARCH’s closure, but also want to celebrate and thank ARCH and all its staff for everything they’ve done for our community.

Additionally, please join us on Friday, May 17th from 6:30-9:30pm at the Art Gallery of Guelph for a night of celebration! This celebration will include an art sale, bake sale, refreshments, drag performances, educational resources, actions you can take- AND MORE! All proceeds from this event will be given to ARCH as part of the fundraising initiative.