After some uncertainty earlier this year, Reach Out Chatham-Kent’s (ROCK) new Wallaceburg drop-in center is officially open.
After some uncertainty earlier this year, Reach Out Chatham-Kent’s (ROCK) new Wallaceburg drop-in center is officially open.
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233 Nelson St. will be a community hub for the agency’s ongoing efforts to offer food, harm-reduction supplies, hygiene products, community connection, and a safe place for people to go five days a week.
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“Wallaceburg has always shown strong support for ROCK and the work that they do,” ROCK said in a release this week. “The drop-in center is a vital resource in the community, offering physical and emotional support to the individuals it serves.”
ROCK’s once-a-week outreach program helps 120 people a week in Wallaceburg.
In February, the agency announced plans to shut down its Wallceburg center March 31 amid unforeseen challenges, including loss of United Way of Chatham-Kent funding and the end of a partnership with 7 Generations Indigenous Cultural Friendship Center at 1531 Dufferin Ave., where the drop -in center had operated.
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But it announced later the center would stay open, thanks to funding from Chatham-Kent and a local family’s donation.
“ROCK is excited to embark on this new chapter at the updated location,” the release said. “This move represents (the community’s) unwavering commitment to providing a safe and supportive space for those who rely on their services.”
The center is open Monday to Friday from 1 to 5 pm
As for homeless services in Chatham-Kent, municipal council recently approved continuing its partnership with ROCK to provide outreach under a 12-month sole-source agreement, with the possibility of a one-year renewal.
Since April 2023, ROCK has provided 285 outreach visits to more than 14 locations in Chatham-Kent, connecting with 560 people experiencing homelessness or living in deep poverty.
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These connections have resulted in engagement with 143 individuals known by name, and other anonymous participants.
ROCK also has helped 121 people with 237 community referrals, including to health-care and addiction supports, housing application assistance, and connections to the Victoria Park Place shelter in Chatham.
Municipal staff at the time recommended sole-source approval because there are no other agencies in Chatham-Kent with the capacity or experience to deliver a program of this nature.
For more about ROCK and its services, visit reachoutck.com.
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