TLC provides eligible clients (released from custody, unstably housed, and/or currently using substances) diagnosed with chronic HCV infection with a free cell phone with a six-month calling and texting plan, along with linkage to a Peer Health Mentor. Clients enrolled receive ‘standard of care’ from the service they are connected to, along with additional supports to enable other services they may need. TLC is an example of a “wrap-around” intervention as it has many added bene昀椀ts to individuals. Beyond improving convenience in accessing HCV care and other services, other hopeful themes have arisen from TLC such as enhanced communication and trust, increased social connection, greater motivation to change or start HCV treatment, and an elevated sense of personal value. This year, amazing momentum was achieved— being, such as the Connect by LifeGuard app and the enrollments in TLC sustained an average of 22 Brave app, which can help reduce the risk of fatal clients per month! What’s more, among participants overdose for people who use drugs. in TLC who saw a treatment provider to get a prescription, 81% started HCV treatment. All of our work is interconnected, with shared themes running through our various programs and projects. TLC serves as a prime example of a program Providing funding for the 昀椀rst year pilot project’s scope has rapidly broadened to encompass more at committed to promoting equity that intersects risk individuals in the community, including people with multiple areas such as Indigenous health, substance use, and supports for individuals facing who use drugs. Recognizing a larger need, Dr So昀椀a Bartlett, Senior Scientist, Sexually Transmitted criminalization and discrimination. As a public health and Blood-borne infections (STBBIs), BCCDC, organization, our responsibility lies in understanding has expanded TLC to include an increased focus these intersections and selecting projects that on providing additional comprehensive services prioritize populations disproportionately affected by and support, including culturally-sensitive apps systemic obstacles and barriers. speci昀椀cally designed for Indigenous health and well- We’re pleased to share that we’ll be funding TLC for a second year, which will help expand the program to include testing and treatment for hepatitis B (HBV) and human immunode昀椀ciency virus (HIV), and will be eager to share more positive outcomes of this project. 16 2022-23 ANNUAL REPORT