Cobourg Police Service and Canadian Centre for Addictions Forge Transformative Community Partnership

Pete Fisher
1 year ago
• Categories: Editor Choice, Local

The Community Bed Pilot partnership provides a roadmap to recovery for vulnerable individuals

The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is thrilled to announce an innovative community partnership with the Canadian Centre for Addictions (CCFA). This pioneering collaboration, developed through the CPS’s Homelessness Addiction Resource Program (HARP) and V13 Policetech Accelerator, represents a major step forward in the collective effort to address mental health and addiction issues within our community.

The heart of this groundbreaking partnership lies in the joint effort between CPS, CCFA, and the CPS’ existing partnership with Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH). Here’s how the program works:

1. Identification: CPS’ HARP officer works collaboratively with the NHH Homelessness Case Manager to identify individuals within our community who are experiencing struggles with
homelessness and addiction challenges, and who are ready and willing participants who may not have the means to access this critical care otherwise.

2. Treatment: Each month, CCFA, through their generous commitment to this pilot, will donate a community bed to the identified individual and provide them with access to their comprehensive range of services.

HARP has long been committed to providing compassionate and effective support for individuals struggling with homelessness, mental health challenges, and addiction. As part of our ongoing
dedication to improving the lives of those most vulnerable in our community, CPS sought out like-minded partners who shared our vision for a healthier, more inclusive Cobourg. In this regard, we are excited to have found an invaluable ally in the Canadian Centre for Addictions (CCFA). CCFA brings a wealth of experience and expertise in addiction recovery and mental health services, making them the perfect partner to help us expand our impact.

This pilot program marks a significant turning point in our community’s approach to addressing homelessness, mental health, and addiction issues. By combining the resources, experience, and
dedication of CPS, CCFA, and NHH, we aim to:

• Reduce the impact of mental health and addiction on our underserved community members.

• Foster a sense of belonging and support for individuals who may have otherwise felt isolated.

• Provide a seamless and comprehensive roadmap to recovery for those who are ready for treatment but experiencing barriers to care.

Sergeant Janice MacDonald, who has been instrumental in the development of this partnership, expressed her enthusiasm: “Through the extensive programming The Canadian Centre For Addictions offers and their generous establishment of this community bed, we can now work with our local partners to identify individuals who would not have the means or support to obtain the treatment they need. These individuals, passionate about transforming their lives, will work with us to make sure that they meet all criteria prior to referral to CCFA. We believe that this pilot program can create a unique model for other communities to establish similar collaborative programs to address this ever-increasing problem.”

“The Canadian Centre for Addictions is extremely excited to be able to work alongside our community partners towards connecting local residents to a new journey of health, wellness and meaningful recovery. We have already found inspiration in the growth of those who have already accessed our Community Treatment program and we look forward to the continued work ahead and the positive outcomes that our community can achieve.”- Seth Fletcher, General Manager, Canadian Centre for Addictions CPS extends its sincere gratitude to the CCFA for its generous commitment to this vital community initiative. Together, we look forward to creating a healthier, more compassionate Cobourg.

Photo: (left to right) Sergeant Janice MacDonald, Morgan Emerson (NHH Homelessness Case Manager), Seth Fletcher (General Manager of CCFA), and Deputy Chief Jeff Haskins