The site will close March 31, 2025, following provincial legislation under Bill 223
BRAMPTON, ON (February 28, 2025) – Peel Public Health remains committed to supporting residents impacted by substance-related harms by enhancing harm reduction services following the upcoming closure of Peel’s supervised consumption site.
“We know substance use is a complex issue and it’s important that residents know they are not alone. We are committed to working with our provincial and community partners so residents who are at risk of substance-related harms have health and social supports that meet their individual needs. The conversation doesn’t end here – it has to continue so we can build a healthier community together.” – Nando Iannicca, Peel Region Chair, Board of Health Chair and CEO.
Along with looking for ways to expand frontline service, the Peel Public Health Harm Reduction Program will continue to offer free, anonymous, and confidential mobile harm reduction services from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday to Saturday. Peel will also enhance its evidence-based Opioid Strategy, which focuses on prevention, harm reduction, treatment and justice. The strategy will continue to be co-designed with community partners and people who have lived experience with substance use.
Supervised consumption and drug checking services at the site will close March 31, 2025, at 10 Peel Centre Drive. Until May 1, 2025, services including basic first aid, distribution of harm reduction supplies and education, counselling and referrals will continue. The site has had over 760 visits (210 unique), preventing substance-related harms, such as overdose, HIV, hepatitis and deaths.
“Thank you to all the partners and neighbours of Peel’s supervised consumption site for your dedication to our community. We deeply appreciate your support. Your commitment to providing life-saving health services continues to make a real impact for residents in Peel.” – Nancy Polsinelli, Peel Region Health Services Commissioner.
Peel Public Health is committed to improving the health and well-being of all residents in Peel Region by providing programs, services, and education that promote health, prevent disease, and protect the community. Peel Public Health’s mandate aligns with the Peel’s vision to build healthy, safe, and vibrant communities for all.
Background
- On December 4, 2024, the Government of Ontario passed Bill 223 – Safer Streets, Stronger Communities Act. As a result, the Province has advised that Peel’s supervised consumption site must close by March 31, 2025.
- There will be a 60-day transition period to support service users after the closure of supervised consumption and drug checking services.
- Peel’s supervised consumption site opened on March 4, 2024, as an Urgent Public Health Need Site under a federal exemption with Moyo Health & Community Services as the operator and WellFort Community Health Services as the Clinical Lead. The site is funded by the Region of Peel.
- Peel’s drug-toxicity crisis continues, with 705 deaths between 2019-2023.
- In Peel, people are dying alone, with nearly half (49 per cent) of deaths occurring when there was no one present who could intervene. This is higher than in Ontario (42 per cent).
Resources
Regional Council report – Closure and Transition Plan for Peel’s Urgent Public Health Need Site
Regional Council presentation – Peel’s Interim Urgent Public Health Need Site
