Health Canada provides $693,434 for emergency treatment and harm reduction in Timmins
Health Canada is providing $693,434 through the Emergency Treatment Fund to expand emergency treatment and harm reduction services in Timmins, the City of Timmins announced Oct. 31. The funding, secured through the city’s Community Safety and Well-Being initiative, will be distributed to Timmins and District Hospital and Northeastern Public Health.
The money will support local responses to substance use and related health emergencies. Planned uses include blood-borne infection prevention and treatment, withdrawal management, and mobile crisis response at Timmins and District Hospital. It also funds dedicated outreach for social and health workers to support follow-up care.
Health Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund is a time-limited federal contribution program for urgent responses to substance use and the overdose crisis. According to the city, it supports programs identified by communities.
“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to solving the overdose crisis, and no community can solve it alone. By investing in community-driven, culturally relevant, and evidence-based initiatives, we are making sure people have access to the care and support they need, close to home,” Health Minister Marjorie Michel said.
“Improving the outcome of mental health and addictions is a core priority of the City’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan,” said Meagan Baranyk, the city’s Community Programs Manager.
“NEPH is committed to advancing equitable access to community education and support,” said Krista Green, Program Manager at Northeastern Public Health.
“This program will strengthen mobile crisis response, offer assessment, treatment, and support for those facing substance use challenges 7 days a week. By advancing withdrawal management and blood-borne infection prevention and treatment services, we will be helping more people get the care they need,” said Natalie Carle, Director of Clinical Services at Timmins and District Hospital.
The Community Safety and Well-Being Plan convenes local partners to address priority health and safety needs in Timmins.