Windsor-Essex HART hub approved

Windsor’s application for a local Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub has been approved.

The HART hub model is one the Ford government has opted to pursue over consumption and treatment service sites – especially in communities where such sites had been close to schools or playgrounds.

The facilities aim to address homelessness and addiction by providing centralized access to services such as mental health care, addiction treatment, housing assistance, and employment support.

Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) will co-lead Windsor’s hub, alongside the House of Sophrosyne and the Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre.

“This is very good news, not just for Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare or the health community in general, but for the general public as well,” said Bill Marra, President and CEO of HDGH.

Marra emphasized that the hub will focus on those aged 16 and older who are experiencing homelessness and seeking help with addiction or mental health challenges.

The province has committed $529 million to establish 27 HART Hubs across Ontario, saying the goal is to have them ready to go by April 1.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones said the initiative aims to make critical supports more accessible.

“Our government is helping more people get the treatment and support they need, when and where they need it,” said Jones.

“This investment will ensure timely and comprehensive access to mental health support, addictions care, primary care, supportive housing, and employment services, no matter where you live.”

Locally, Marra said preparations are already underway, with working groups established in anticipation of the announcement.

“We are a shovel-ready proposal,” said Marra.

“It’s going to be a phased implementation, so we’re not going to flip a light switch on April 1st and see everything going at once. However, we can phase it in and make progress quickly.”

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens also welcomed the news, noting the hub’s potential to address ongoing challenges.

“With a focus on community safety, crucial treatment, and stability, the HART Hubs will support vulnerable residents and help to meet their basic needs,” said Dilkens.

“Through this initiative, folks will have help finding shelter, and accessing transitional housing services and key supports around mental health, primary care, substance use, addiction, and more.”

Marra further explained that the hub will build on existing services while taking a more comprehensive approach to care.

“It’s about providing treatment, recovery beds, and a true continuum of services connecting individuals to other community-based agencies,” he said.

The phased rollout of Windsor’s HART Hub is expected to begin in April 2025. Officials say updates will be shared as the initiative progresses.