On August 20, 2024, we were informed by the Ministry of Health that Hamilton Urban Core Community Health Centre’s Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) must close by March 31, 2025. This news was unexpected and raises many concerns for the vulnerable clients accessing these vital services.
At this moment, we need time to fully understand the details of this decision before providing further comment. Our immediate focus is on supporting our staff and clients as we navigate through this unexpected situation.
We firmly believe that the CTS model saves lives and plays a vital role in our community. We plan to meet with the Ministry to explore our options for ensuring continued access to low-barrier mental health and addiction support services for those in need.
Despite this setback, we believe we are well positioned to apply for the Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment Hub model recently introduced by the Minister of Health. This model aligns closely with the work we are already doing, and we are committed to pursuing this opportunity.
We look forward to collaborating closely with our provincial, municipal, and community partners to establish a successful hub that continues to serve and support our community effectively.
Sincerely,
Sandy Ezepue
Executive Director
Statement re Announcement by Health Minister Sylvia Jones