Ontario is under pressure to establish a 24/7 mental health and addictions ward at Lakeridge Health Oshawa following unanimous endorsement from the Durham Regional Council. The council pledged up to $2.25 million towards the project, although the hospital requires $30 million for the initial investment.
Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter, who initiated the motion, expressed his determination to address the issue of individuals suffering on the streets daily. The Ministry of Health did not provide direct responses but mentioned significant investments in the Durham Region, including funding for 300 additional beds across the Lakeridge Health network.
As part of the 2025 budget, the province plans to boost funding for community-based mental health and addictions services by four percent. The proposed emergency ward aims to offer timely care to individuals in crisis, reducing the strain on emergency departments and first responders.
Beth Brannon, the senior director for mental health and addictions at Lakeridge Health, emphasized the potential benefits of the ward in providing immediate, specialized support to those in crisis. Mayor Carter highlighted the urgency of timely care, especially for individuals in psychosis or undergoing withdrawal.
With around 1,000 homeless individuals in Durham, Chair John Henry acknowledged the challenges faced by communities in addressing mental health, addiction, and homelessness. He expressed enthusiasm for the mental health and addictions ward, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care for individuals with complex needs.
Mayor Carter is pushing for $30 million in provincial funding, with Lakeridge Health Foundation committing $10 million to the project. The mayor aims to discuss the project further with Premier Ford, emphasizing strong support from the city and the region for the initiative.