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Black Student Supports

Resources for Black students, and for those looking to support Black students.

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Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) Learn More

The BSSC exists to connect Black students to the programs, people, and resources that will nurture their academic and personal growth. Our programmes and services focus on building a sense of belonging and safety amongst McMaster’s Black students.

PGCLL M07
905-525-9140 ext. 21786
bss@mcmaster.ca

Blackspace: McMaster Student Union Learn More

A student-initiative that focuses on the empowerment and development of those who identify as black women and non binary at McMaster University.

Email: blackspace@mcmaster.ca

Instagram: @blackspace.mcmaster

Black X-Scape 

SWC Wellness Program

The student-led Black X-Scape provides a space for Black students to participate in safe and liberating discussions about mental health and healing. Black students can express themselves freely and engage in conversations about the nuances of mental health, wellness, stigma, and more. The program focuses on sharing resources, offering support, developing coping skills, and fostering collective healing, while exploring and expanding on meaningful aspects of Blackness.

Email: bxscape@mcmaster.ca

Instagram: @blacxscape

McMaster Equity & Inclusion Office Learn More

The Equity and Inclusion Office (EIO) works closely with staff, students and faculty members to advance equity and inclusion by promoting an environment of respect, safety, collegiality and openness.

UH 104
905-525-9140 ext. 27581

equity@mcmaster.ca

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Black Student Mentorship Program (BSMP) Learn More

The Black Student Mentorship Program (BSMP) was established in 2020 to create community among Black students and faculty at McMaster. The program’s core objectives include improving Black student academic performance, strengthening awareness of resources, creating a safe space for relationship building among peers and faculty, and fostering a sense of belonging within the wider McMaster community.

Student Assistance Plan - WeConnect (Undergraduate) Learn More

The MSU Student Assistance Program (SAP) offers free, confidential 24/7 support to all undergraduate McMaster students.

On-demand counselling from professional experts in areas such as mental health, family and relationships, career counselling, financial planning, and more. Easy and quick access to multilingual support, wellness programs, women’s health, and out-of-country coaching services.

Appointments available in as little as 24 hours or the next day.

Call 1-855-853-0565

Student Care - Conversation (Graduate Students) Learn More

As many students do, you may find it challenging to get adequate and affordable mental health support. But did you know that Conversation, a service offered in partnership with Dialogue, helps reduce barriers to care by ensuring fast access to support? No more waiting lists and high fees!

The service allows students to register and book appointments on its online platform. Sessions take place virtually on the Dialogue platform, which means that you can see a mental health professional wherever you like, quickly and confidentially. 

1-855-853-0565

Career Access Professional Services (CAPS) Learn More

CAPS is for students and alumni who identify as a member of an equity-deserving group or have barriers to employment.

Equity-deserving groups include people who experience discrimination and social barriers that prevent them from receiving equal access to services and opportunities. Some equity-deserving groups include women; racialized persons; First Nations, Métis and Inuit; persons with disabilities; and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

The CAPS team provides individualized support to assist with all aspects of career development including exploration, preparation and the building of skills and confidence.

careeraccess@mcmaster.ca

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Barrett Centre for Crisis Support More Information

Provides a safe environment in the community and responds to the needs of individuals, 16 years of age or older, who experience a mental health crisis and do not require a hospital stay. Confidential and free services 24/7/365.

24 Hour Crisis Line: 905-529-7878
Toll Free: 1-844-777-3571

Black Youth HelpLine More Information

Primary prevention of social, psychological breakdown in communities through a focus on education, health and community development. Available everyday from 9am to 10pm.

1-833-294-8650

Good2Talk More Information

Free, confidential helpline providing professional counselling and information and referrals for mental health, addictions and well-being to post-secondary students in Ontario, 24/7/365.

1-866-925-5454 or dial 211 and ask to be connected to Good2Talk.

YouThrive Contact for more information

YouThrive is a new mental health program for BIPOC children, youth, & families offered by the Youth Wellness Centre & St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton.

Call: 905-522-1155 ext. 31725