Programs provided through a proposed Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub would help thousands of people annually, a report prepared for city councilors says.
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The report, to be presented to city councilors at a special Oct. 15 council meeting, says the hub would help at least 6,000 people a year through a projected 20,000 interactions. Councilors will be asked to endorse an application to establish a HART Hub to serve Brantford and Brant County.
The application is being led by SOAR Community Services with input and support from several community agencies. It is in support of a four-year $378 million provincial government initiative to create 10 new HART Hubs throughout Ontario.
The hubs would connect people with complex needs to a comprehensive, locally-based approach to treatment. They will provide a range of services including primary care, mental health and addiction care, social services and employment support, says the report.
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As well, the hubs will increase availability and access to supportive housing to promote stability for clients and communities, the report says.
The province is aiming to have the hubs operational by the winter of 2025.
Formerly known as St. Leonard’s Community Services, SOAR has been delivering housing, employment, justice addictions and mental health programs in the community for more than 56 years. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors.
The report, prepared by city staff, says SOAR has extensive formal and informal relationships with community partners to deliver coordinated, wraparound services to clients.
The partnerships cover addictions, housing and the emergency shelter intake and Housing Resource Center that is funded and operated through a partnership with the city, the report says.
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“They (SOAR) have a history of effectively managing funding contracts, using project resources efficiently and effectively, executing project deliverables, implementing and overseeing complex programs, and collaborating effectively with partners,” the report says. “SOAR’s senior leadership team has more than 50 years of combined experience in health and social services, and expertise in program development, implementation, evaluation, and quality improvement.”
The city and county face significant challenges related to homelessness and addiction. Establishment of a HART Hub in the region is essential to address these issues comprehensively and effectively, the report says.
The hub would provide a centralized location for services and supported by community agencies including Brantford Native Housing Aboriginal Health Centre, Grand River Community Health Centre, Brant Community Health Centre.
According to the report
- At least 40 people a year would have support for access withdrawal management through the HART Hub.
- At least 20 people a year would have access to bed-based addiction treatment.
- A minimum of 24 people will be served in transitional housing units annually, with individualized supports following treatment including intensive supportive housing.
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