NEWS RELEASE
COUNTY OF SIMCOE
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Community safety teams will soon be seen in four communities across Simcoe County, thanks to an innovative partnership between the County of Simcoe and One Community Solutions.
In 2023, the County of Simcoe introduced its 10-point homelessness prevention strategy, and as part of this, piloted community safety teams, operated by One Community Solutions, from May to December 2023 in the City of Barrie. As a result of this successful pilot program, the county has extended operations in Barrie and expanded to Orillia, Midland, and soon Collingwood.
Working together with the downtown business improvement associations and officials from the county and city/municipality, One Community Solutions provides access to supports, services, and safe cleanup. They build relationships with not only unhoused persons and the businesses in the downtown cores, but also with community service providers who are able to provide care for those who need it.
“Seeing the success of the pilot program in the Barrie area, we knew that this initiative could benefit individuals in communities across our region,” said Mina Fayez-Bahgat, general manager of social and community services for the County of Simcoe. “We’re pleased to extend our partnership with One Community Solutions to expand this program into Orillia, Midland, and Collingwood. This is an innovative support model that will complement existing programs to help us build up an even stronger support network for those in need.”
Enhanced street outreach services provide support to those experiencing homelessness, with increased emphasis during extreme winter temperatures. These teams offer a range of services to those who are vulnerable and who may not otherwise access shelters.
Outreach teams facilitate access to shelter or respite beds in addition to offering individualized supports to help with accessing a range of services such as income supports, mental health and addiction services, healthcare services and assisting individuals to develop plans to transition to more permanent housing options.
Community safety teams build meaningful connections with people who are experiencing homelessness, intensify referrals to services, and work with the broader community to keep the community safe through safety walks, cleanup, and more.
For more information on street outreach services provided through the County of Simcoe, visit simcoe.ca/StreetOutreach.
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