Ontario Investing in New Supportive Housing Units in Thunder Bay
Expanding Mental Health Services Across the Province
Ontario is investing in 8 new supportive housing units in Thunder Bay and an additional 31 units in 2016-17.
Across the province, Ontario is investing $16.2 million in 1,000 supporting housing units, including $4 million for 248 supportive housing units in 2016-17.
“I am very proud to be part of a government which is addressing mental health needs in our Northern communities and across the province. This announcement is a step forward to help people who are experiencing mental health and addiction challenges. Supporting studies that focus on our Indigenous population is a recognition of the unique challenges faced by people living in Northern Ontario. This is another way our government is strengthening Ontario’s Health Care system.” MPP Michael Gravelle, Thunder Bay – Superior North
Supportive housing is critical to reducing homelessness among people with mental illness and addictions. Housing with supports, such as counselling or addictions treatment, delivers better outcomes for individuals with mental health and addictions challenges, and reduces the risk of people becoming homeless.
As part of the continuing expansion of mental health services, Ontario is also providing $2 million to 10 Indigenous organizations to examine the unique mental health and addictions issues facing Indigenous peoples across the province. These organizations will seek input and advice from their local communities and membership, and provide key recommendations to the Ontario government.
“Thank you to the Mental Health and Addictions Leadership Advisory Council for their thoughtful recommendations that will help our government make significant improvements to Ontario’s mental health and addictions system. Investing in services that target our most vulnerable, like supportive housing, ensures that those who need care the most have the access they need. By supporting indigenous communities to engage their membership on what they need from their health care system, we are investing in a system that is more equitable and working towards solutions that work for patients.”Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
Investing in supportive housing spaces, and understanding the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples, are critical parts of the government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. The strategy aims to create a province where every person has the opportunity to achieve his or her full potential and contribute in a prosperous and healthy Ontario.
Expanding access to mental health and addictions services is also part of the government’s plan to build a better Ontario through its Patients First: Action Plan for Health Care, which is providing patients with faster access to the right care, better home and community care, the information they need to stay healthy and a health care system that’s sustainable for generations to come.
“We have set a bold commitment to end chronic homelessness within 10 years. Investing in supportive housing spaces is an important part of this plan. We know that Housing First works, and not only are people better off when they have the appropriate supports in place, it also saves money in the health care and justice systems.” Deb Matthews, Deputy Premier, President of the Treasury Board and Minister Responsible for the Poverty Reduction Strategy
