Northwestern Ontario’s Kenora Chiefs Advisory is receiving new funding from the province to help address mental health and addictions in their home communities.
The Ontario government is investing $667,000 through their new Addictions Recovery Fund to help add and enhance specialized addictions treatments in northwestern Ontario.
“Our government recognizes the importance of making substantial investments in high-quality addictions care across Northwestern Ontario,” Kenora-Rainy River MPP and Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Greg Rickford.
“Our $667,000 investment will help residents access specialized treatment that is culturally appropriate, and will improve the lives of people in our communities.”
Ontario says that studies have shown that opioid-related deaths surged by nearly 80 per cent during the COVID-19 pandemic, with rates being three times higher in Northern Ontario.
In the area, the Kenora Chiefs Advisory will be receiving $273,750 to immediately enhance access to bed-based addictions treatment supports through 2022-2023. The Rainy River District Ontario Health Team is also seeing $394,200 through 2024.
“This opportunity allows for greater options and flexibility for participants seeking treatment closer to their First Nation community. This much-needed programming will be located at our Youth and Family Camp property located just outside the City of Kenora,” explained Jennifer Dreaver, KCA’s Chief Operating Officer.
“We continue to lead in the development of a full continuum of holistic care for all ages, and look forward to building on our established work as the lead agency for one of the first 10 Youth Wellness Hubs in Ontario.”
Overall, Ontario’s $90 million Addictions Recovery Fund aims to build close to 400 new addictions treatment beds across the province, helping to care for roughly 7,000 clients. Other investments include six new youth wellness hubs, mobile mental health clinics and additional community supports.
“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 region has targeted, reliable access to the help they expect and deserve.”
The Ontario government is also investing $2.5 million in Breaking Free Online, a new therapy tool that makes it faster and easier for Ontarians to access safe and effective additions supports. You can find more information on the free programming and resources HERE.
More mental health, wellness and addictions supports can be found through the Ontario government.