Province launches HART hubs in Barrie, Simcoe County

The County of Simcoe logo is pictured in this file image from Tue., June 10, 2025. CTV NEWS/BARRIE

The Ontario government officially launched its new Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment hubs (HART) in Barrie and across Simcoe County on Friday.

In a news release, the province stated that it invested nearly $550 million to open 28 HART Hubs across Ontario, allowing for expanded access to high-quality mental health and addictions care. Its purpose is to protect the safety of children and families while improving the access to services for those facing homelessness, mental health challenges and substance abuse.

“We are building a stronger, more connected system of mental health and addictions care that better reflects the needs of communities and focuses on lasting recovery,” said Vijay Thanigasalam, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, in the news release. “The opening of this new HART Hub will ensure that people struggling with mental health and addictions challenges in Simcoe County can get the care they need on their path to recovery, while keeping the community safe.”

The HART Hub locations in Simcoe County include Barrie, Orillia and Midland. The County of Simcoe and City of Barrie are among the operators delivering the services, which include community outreach, withdrawal management, treatment, crisis support, supportive housing, employment and social support and primary care.

“The HART Hub represents what we can achieve when every level of government, along with our community partners, comes together with a shared commitment to care, compassion and public safety,” said Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall in part of his statement. “This is a critical step forward for Barrie and for the people we serve.”

“On behalf of County Council, we would like to thank our provincial partners for investing in The HART of Simcoe County, an incredible resource now available to support those living unhoused in the region who are battling addiction,” added Basil Clarke, County of Simcoe Warden.

The province says additional HART Hubs will soon be opening across Ontario. The Simcoe County HART hub has been servicing those in need since the summer.