The non-profit will cease operations in 2026, citing funding struggles and groundbreaking HIV advancements for the closure...
2SLGBTQI+ Canadians are waking up to sad news this morning. The AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT) announced it would be ceasing operations. A leader in Toronto’s HIV response since 1983, the organization’s last day is March 31, 2026.
“It is with heavy hearts we announce that after 42 years of service to people living with and at risk for HIV in Toronto, ACT will wind down its programs and services over the next 6 months,” its Instagram post read.
The organization noted groundbreaking advancements in HIV prevention and treatment as one of the reasons for its decision. It also noted the changing landscape goes beyond its mission.
According to executive director Ryan Lisk, the closure represents a hope original organizers had in the ‘80s. “ACT began with the hope that at some point in the future it wouldn’t be needed anymore which is why it’s bittersweet, and we are grateful to our community partners that are able to continue to serve the needs of people living with and at risk of HIV.”
The organization stressed HIV is not over and that new infections continue to be diagnosed. Its press release said education is still needed, especially around what it means to be undetectable and untransmittable. It highlighted the need for mental health, aging, housing and social support services for those living with HIV. It also pointed to the continued inequality in accessing prevention care such as PrEP.
Why is ACT closing?
Beyond advancements in HIV treatment, a number of other factors contributed to the closure decision. Financial constraints have been a major issue. ACT shared that donations to the organization, and others across Canada, have been on the decline. This is credited to an increased cost-of-living and a turbulent economy. “In 2003, ACT raised $3.6 million through donations and fundraising; in 2025, projected philanthropy revenue is less than $300,000,” its press release stated.
Along with funding issues, restrictions in government funding and several years of a deficit budget have impacted the organization. “With rising costs and less revenue, ACT’s current structure is no longer financially sustainable,” it continued.
There has also been a sharp decrease in service users. The organization noted it has been serving a third of the users it did prior to COVID lockdowns. It revealed that 2026 was predicted to have less than a third of the service users of 2019.
What is the history of ACT?
Founded by a group of volunteers on July 12, 1983, ACT has been a leader in the efforts to end HIV in Toronto ever since its inception. It was founded in response to the mass hysteria surrounding AIDS and the stigmatization of people.
According to The ArQuives, the idea came during a public forum discussing AIDS and Hepatitis B in April 1983. Over 300 people were in attendance including members of The Body Politic, social workers, doctors and more. During the session it was proposed an AIDS Committee be established. The purpose would be to provide up-to-date information and resources about the disease as well as provide support services and advice.
Over the years its mission has remained constant. ACT looks to “support people living with, and at risk for HIV, to achieve their optimal social, sexual, and mental health.” Its vision is a future free of HIV.
What are people saying about ACT’s closure?
The reaction on social media has been pouring in since the announcement. Volunteers, service users, former board members and the community have been leaving messages of thanks, love and memories.
“I learned a lot about queer community, HIV information through ACT, and ACT was also my first job in the queer mental health space,” wrote Facebook user David C. “I feel lucky to have learned from wonderful mentors through ACT, and really carry knowledge from my time here into my clinical work in psychotherapy today.”
Former volunteer and member of ACT’s board of directors, Jamie S., shared their history with the organization that dates back to 1994. “ACT will forever be close to my heart…I did my university social work placement where I learned from some of the best counsellor practitioners I’ve ever met,” Jamie said in part on Facebook. He went on to iterate the organization’s ultimate goal that it would no longer be necessary, while noting for years it was a critical resource.
“You were there whenever I needed you,” a user named Steve wrote on Facebook. “You will be missed, but your legacy to our community will never be forgotten.”
Former volunteer Laurie sent her love via Instagram. “As someone who volunteered with ACT for 10 years, I’m so proud of the work you’ve done, and so thankful to have been a small part of it.”
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