Durham Region calls for funding to support homelessness and opioid crisis

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“We’ve seen cities and towns across Canada facing mental health, addictions and homelessness crises. And Durham Region is not immune. It’s a situation that requires the support of all three levels of government.

We’ve seen a 67 per cent increase in homelessness here. Yes, we are doing what we can, but we can’t keep up. We’re opening a 45-bed shelter with wrap-around supports; planning for revitalization of our community housing stock; and exploring mixed-use affordable housing on regional land.

There are many reasons why people may end up in crisis. But the sad fact is that we are seeing it much more often. Our local hospital network reported more than 14,000 emergency department visits for mental health issues and substance abuse.

The situation is putting strain on our emergency services. From January 1 to February 11, the Region of Durham’s Paramedic Services fielded 127 calls for suspected opioid overdoses—72 more calls than this time frame in 2023. Sadly, most of these calls are from bystanders; individuals who are reacting to an overdose on our streets.

We’ve seen an Ontario municipality issue a state of emergency because of this opioid and homelessness reality. A staggering number of overdoses—pushing their emergency services to a breaking point. But sadly, they are not alone. This is what so many other communities are also facing.

I applaud the province for responding with urgent funding to help. It is absolutely the right thing to do. And we gratefully acknowledge the one-time increase to federal homelessness funding that will help unsheltered individuals this winter.

We need to advance long-term solutions in Durham to meet the need. We invite the Prime Minister and Premier of Ontario to meet with Durham Regional Council to discuss this crisis, the challenges and proposed solutions here in our community.

In conversation with community partners, we’ve developed a policy paper that outlines solutions. Ideas that would allow all levels of government to come together, now. To make meaningful impacts in the lives of residents.

This is a serious situation that requires immediate action. We have impactful solutions that can be put in place quickly. By working hand-in-hand with senior levels of government.”

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.