Back to SearchSarnia, ON – The Homelessness Prevention team is working closely with community partners to open a low-barrier, multidisciplinary, and multiagency Housing and Homelessness Hub to provide day programs for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The Hub opened its doors at the former Laurel-Lea St. Matthew’s Presbyterian Church on Exmouth Street on Monday, June 5. It is currently within a soft-launch stage and will be open Monday to Friday from 12 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. beginning Monday, June 12.
“Visitors to the Hub can access snacks, restrooms, quiet spaces, as well as computers and phones,” said Melissa Fitzpatrick, Manager, Homelessness Prevention & Children’s Services. “We also have community partners accessible on site that can provide assistance with accessing housing, harm reduction, and mental health services, provide referrals to outside services, and get support with obtaining identifications, among other things.”
Two caseworkers from the Social Services Division will be onsite during operating hours, along with staff from community partner organizations and the County’s Public Health Services Division.
“When developing this program, staff explored best practices and noted successes in other communities and consulted individuals with lived experience of homelessness who form the A Better Tomorrow committee,” continued Fitzpatrick. “The wrap-around, person-centred, housing-first, trauma-informed model of care that will be provided creates a safe and inclusive space for those experiencing homelessness to access critical supports.”
The pilot program will run until March 2024. Hours of operation may change as needs and programming are assessed, and consultations with community service providers will be ongoing throughout the pilot program.
-30-
Please contact:
Valerie Colasanti
General Manager, Social Services Division
County of Lambton
519-344-2062 ext. 2010
Email Valerie Colasanti
Subscribe
Subscribe to this page
