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GDAAY Gender Diversity and Affirming Action for Youth

Gender Diversity and Affirming Action for Youth (GDAAY) is a program in Winnipeg that offers integrated care for youth in Manitoba during their gender affirming journey. Every youth’s journey is different and our program aims to support youth through the transition they feel is affirming for them. 

Our waitlist can be long and we are working to shorten it, however this will take time. We know the waiting period can be a challenging time for youth. There are many steps in a youth’s gender affirming journey that can be done without medications or that can be started by a family doctor or pediatrician.

Gender affirming care is the standard of care for youth. Primary care providers and other health care professionals have an important role in supporting youth through their gender-affirming journey.  Primary care providers will often see youth before they are seen by a GDAAY and will continue to follow youth through their journey into adulthood.  

We recommend reading the Canadian Pediatric Society’s statement on gender affirming care.  Some important aspects of gender affirming care include: 

  • Ask about chosen name and pronouns 
  • Create a supportive environment in your clinic 
  • Be able to discuss medical gender affirming care with patients 
  • Start therapies that are within your scope of practice and comfort level. 
  • Learn about gender affirming care so you can best support your patients (resources provided)