While there are many organizations providing support, the Health Minister says that he wants to see a facility open at all times to serve adults with mental health and addiction issues.

The province is taking proposals for a community drop-in space to fill these needs all day, every day.

“There are organizations that provide supportive environments for individuals with mental health and addictions issues, but very few are able to stay open for 24 hours. This gap can lead to unnecessary emergency department visits,” Health Minister Cameron Friesen says. “By closing the gap and expanding access to community drop-in space for people over the age of 18 with addictions and mental health issues, we are providing a safe place to rest or participate in recreational activities while providing appropriate care and resources.”

The province says space is for people using substances but not requiring hospitalization. The drop-in space is to give people an alternative place to be other than on the street.

“We know that police and emergency department providers are being asked to support people with mental health and addiction issues, but this is not always the best way for individuals to get connected with other resources,” Justice Minister Cliff Cullen says. “Expanding services and ensuring staff with the right skills are in place to help people in their time of need will ensure our community has the right care in the right place at the right time.”

A reduction of unneeded emergency department visits, violence and injury, and reducing police involvement is the hopeful outcome of the space.

During the tendering process, the province says at least one existing community health organization with annual funding and in an urban and high-need area will be awarded the funding to expand its drop-in capacity.

The space needs to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and have experienced support workers trained in mental health and addiction issues. The province says the drop in must be welcoming and non-stigmatizing. Clients at the space will need to be given the support to access other health and social services.

The investment must also complement recent Manitoba housing projects. 

“This investment builds on the strong partnerships we have forged with the exceptional community organizations that provide health and social support services to vulnerable individuals in Winnipeg,” Sharon Kuropatwa, regional director for housing, supports and service integration, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority says. “This investment will help further develop a network that is meant to ensure people with mental health and addiction issues have the supports they need to regain their lives.” 

The province says the drop-in should pair well with previous initiatives such as:

  • the creation of six additional beds at HSC Winnipeg for patients with severe alcohol or drug intoxication, along with additional mental health, addictions and security staff within its emergency department;
  • the opening of women’s treatment beds at AFM Winnipeg and the Behavioural Health Foundation, as well as flexible-length withdrawal beds in Winnipeg and Brandon that are suitable for those with a meth addiction; and
  • the creation of 70 supportive recovery housing units, giving those recovering from addiction access to stable housing and a safe place to live as they transition back into their lives.

Since the fall, the province says it has invested over $42 million in new or expended mental health and addictions services and programs.

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