The Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO) awarded funding from TD Bank Group to support Ontarians with sickle cell disease
SCAGO awarded a grant from TD Bank Group to improve health outcomes of individuals with sickle cell disease.
Toronto, ON − April 10, 2022 − The Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO) has been granted funding from TD Bank Group (TD) for the project “Improving Health Outcomes and Reducing Preventable Complications in the Sickle Cell Disease Community.”
SCAGO will receive $30,000 for the project over a two-year period as a part of funding provided by TD through the TD Ready Commitment, the Bank’s corporate citizenship platform.
SCAGO supports and advocates for Ontarians living with sickle cell disease, a debilitating and life-shortening blood disorder that primarily affects people of African descent. There are approximately 6000 Canadians living with sickle cell disease, 3500 of which live in Ontario, and many face numerous barriers to quality care. Through this initiative, the underserved and marginalized SCD community will have improved access to disease-management health education, and psycho-social programs.
Quotes:
“Health equity ensures all people attain their optimal health outcomes. Accessing this funding from TD will allow the Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario to improve the health outcomes of Canadians living with sickle cell disease and we are grateful to TD for extending support to the marginalized SCD community,” said Mrs. Lanre Tunji-Ajayi, SCAGO’s President and CEO.
“We know that many people, including those living with sickle cell disease, face barriers to accessing essential health programs and services when they need them most,” said Amy Hanen, Associate Vice President, Social Impact – Canada. “Disease management education, virtual medical appointments and peer support programs can help reduce the severity and burden of the disease. That’s why, through the TD Ready Commitment, we are supporting innovative solutions that improve access to care and help create more equitable health outcomes for everyone.”
About the Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO)
The Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO) is a leading charitable patient organization providing evidence-based support to families with children, adolescents, and adults, with sickle cell disease across the four regions of the province of Ontario. It supports clinical research, engages in psycho-social research, health promotion, patients and care providers’ education, community awareness, and development of best practices and guidelines. Since its establishment, SCAGO has invested 100% of its resources in improving the quality of life of individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. It engages in evidentiary advocacy on their behalf with the government, schools, and the health care system.
Media Contact: media@sicklecellanemia.ca
