Over $6.8 million is going to Canadore College to enhance access to bed-based addictions treatment supports.
The money will create 53 new addictions treatment beds.
They include nine new withdrawal management services beds, 24 new addictions treatment beds, and 20 new supportive treatment beds.
“There have been mental health and addictions challenges in our community for some time,” says Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “Today’s investment of 53 new beds, through Canadore College, will increase access to support services for those dealing with addiction and provide the opportunity to grow and prosper.”
The province says the new beds will help hundreds of people in Nipissing and the surrounding region access specialized addictions treatment, including access to culturally-sensitive supports for Indigenous clients.
“The establishment of the Addictions and Mental Health Treatment Centre of Excellence adds a much-needed resource to the north,” says George Burton, President and CEO of Canadore College. “ As this new mental health and addictions centre integrates with existing service providers, our students will benefit from experiential learning opportunities led by an interprofessional faculty team. Indigenous Studies programs offered through The Village will allow us to provide culturally safe and appropriate mental health and addiction services for Indigenous clients.”
“Both before and during the pandemic, we’ve seen a surge in demand for high-quality addictions care that addresses the unique needs of vulnerable populations across Ontario,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “This historic investment is an important step forward to protect our progress in our fight against COVID-19, and ensuring that individuals and families in Nipissing and the surrounding region have targeted, reliable access to the help they expect and deserve.”
The province says studies have shown that opioid-related deaths surged by 79 percent during the first two waves of the pandemic, with rates being three times higher in Northern Ontario.
