Our Story

ROAR began as a bold and compassionate vision: to provide free affirming, inclusive, and evidence-based addiction treatment for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Winnipeg. In 2023, that vision came to life through a pilot program funded by the Winnipeg Foundation. Developed in partnership between JP Grimard Clinical Counselling and Our Own Health Centre, ROAR was created by JP Grimard as a 16-week harm reduction outpatient program tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of queer and trans individuals navigating substance use and recovery.

From the very beginning, ROAR was built on principles of dignity, affirmation, and accessibility. The pilot demonstrated not only the need for such a space, but the power of what happens when community-specific care meets clinical expertise. Participants showed remarkable engagement, growth, and transformation, prompting attention from both funders and sector leaders.

Recognizing the potential and early success of the pilot, ROAR received additional funding from Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries to expand the program in the fall of 2024. The expanded version deepened its reach and impact in the community. It offered more spaces, more support through individual sessions and aftercare, bus passes, a meal program and even more opportunity for participants to explore recovery through a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and empowering lens.

The momentum didn’t stop there.

ROAR was nationally recognized with a Changemakers Award by A Dollar a Day Foundation, celebrating its excellence in mental health and substance use care. This award placed ROAR among a select group of programs across Canada making transformative change in mental health and substance use care.

Following this recognition, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries renewed their commitment by funding to ensure the program’s continuity for another year. Further cementing its sustainability, A Dollar a Day Foundation generously committed to three years of additional funding, ensuring that ROAR continues to be a safe and transformative space for queer and trans folks seeking support, healing, and recovery.

From a grassroots pilot to a nationally recognized initiative, ROAR continues to grow—but its heart remains the same: community-first, client-centered care rooted in hope, compassion, and resilience.