Justice safe bed programs offer short-term, community residential services for persons in crisis (PIC) who interact with police and/or mobile crisis teams and are unable to remain in their current living situation. Assistance is provided for both their immediate and longer-term needs. Mental health distress and problematic substance use in Ontario have been exacerbated by the isolation, limited face-to-face support services, and lack of access to common community hubs like libraries and recreational facilities, so the volume and complexity of PIC during COVID-19 has increased while many safe bed programs have had to reduce their bed numbers to maintain physical distancing protocols. This presentation features a moderated panel of safe bed programs from across the province who will share some of their creative wisdom in meeting the needs of vulnerable PIC during the pandemic.
PRESENTERS:
Amy Herskowitz | Ministry of Solicitor General
Shereen Rampersad | Service and Housing in the Province
Dr. David Marsh | Jubilee Centre, Timmins
Tammy Linekar | Jubilee Centre, Timmins
Stephanie Trudel | Jubilee Centre, Timmins
Maureen Acuna-Harrison | Brant Safe Bed Program, CMHA Brand, Haldimand, Norfolk
