THUNDER BAY - After opening its doors more than four months ago and operating under temporary status, the city’s Overdose Prevention Site will now be a permanent service.
The Ontario government approved 15 consumption and treatment service sites in the province under its new model, which includes the Overdose Prevention Site at the NorWest Community Health Centre in Thunder Bay.
Of the 15 sites, six are located in Toronto, three in Ottawa, as well as individual sites in London, Guelph, Hamilton, Kingston, St. Catharines, and Thunder Bay.
"Our government takes the opioids crisis very seriously," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, in a release. "That's why we've created a new Consumption and Treatment Services model that will continue to save lives by preventing overdoses and connecting people to primary care, treatment, rehabilitation, and other health and social services to ensure those struggling with drug addiction get the help they need."
Priority was given to communities with high need, as well as sites offering integrated wrap-around health services and providing community support and engagement.
The Overdose Prevention Site in Thunder Bay opened in late November last year and provides people with a safe place to consume illicit drugs under the supervision of health care professionals.
It also links individuals to other mental health and addictions services, housing, education, and other supports.
The Overdose Prevention Site on Simpson Street received several extensions to remain open while the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care reviewed its application.
After it opened, Juanita Lawson, CAO at the NorWest Community Health Centre, said usage was slower than expected. In January, more people began using the site and Jennifer Lawrance, director of health services, said it is being used on a daily basis.
Lawrance said in January that exact usage numbers will not be available until later this spring.
The Ontario government intially said it would approve 21 sites across the province. In a release issued on Friday, the government said it will continue to accept applications from interested organizations.
