In response to the dynamic conversation had at the Community Solutions Summit for Mental Health, Substance Use, and Housing held on June 12, 2023, several main issues and concerns were identified.

As part of actualizing the outcomes to lessen the public and business community fear of engaging with individuals thought to be experiencing housing instability or exhibiting unsettling behaviours, MHCHS has actioned a two-prong educational approach.

“What To Do If . . .”  is a support document that provides a breakdown of who you can reach out to when you need help dealing with everything from medical emergencies, crime, encountering encampments, family violence, housing instability and substance use debris.

“We Can Help You” offers downtown businesses the opportunity to engage with the Homeless and Housing Development Department of the MHCHS to provide an understanding of outreach and resources available in community, as well as a way to navigate engagement with those experiencing housing instability. Our goal is to create an understanding and reduce negative feelings and fear within the community.