Beds open for homeless people facing mental health, drug crisis in Windsor

People who are experiencing mental health issues or addiction crises will now have more community support in Windsor and may no longer be locked up in prison or hospitalized.

The safe bed short-term housing crisis project was launched Monday in downtown Windsor. It is a partnership between Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) and the local Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).

Someone in need can be transferred, mainly by police, to one of the four beds at the centre rather than being locked up overnight.

 CMHA offers more than just mental health resources at the centre in addition to having a place to sleep and a warm shower. People can learn how to maintain their homes, from washing clothes to talking to landlords.

The program runs from 4 p.m. until 8 a.m. During the day, participants will participate in HDGH’s transition stability center (TSC) programs, meals, and support. 

Although safe beds only occupy the main floor, there is room for growth. Upstairs, there is room for an additional eight beds, which have been partially renovated.

 About $335,000 was used for renovations, adding security and a fire sprinkler system. The ministry of health and long-term care gave funding to make the one-year project possible.