Ontario’s major city mayors are once more urging increased support from both provincial and federal governments to address issues related to homelessness, addiction, and mental health. This plea was reiterated during the recent Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference in Ottawa.
Chairing the Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM) and serving as Mayor of Burlington, Marianne Meed Ward emphasized the escalating crisis of homelessness, mental health, and addictions in various communities across the province. Meed Ward stressed the urgency for action, stating that while municipalities are willing to contribute, it is crucial for other government levels to step up.
The OBCM, consisting of 29 cities with populations exceeding 100,000, representing nearly 70% of Ontario’s population, has been advocating for enhanced tools and assistance from both the provincial and federal governments since launching the Solve the Crisis Campaign in 2024.
This renewed call aligns with the increasing homelessness rates in the province and the challenges faced by municipalities in managing homeless encampments in public areas. The campaign urges the province to declare a state of emergency on the crisis, boost investment in recovery-based treatments, and appoint a dedicated minister to oversee mental health and addictions services.
Moreover, the campaign seeks to expand addiction treatment and rehabilitation programs in provincial and federal correctional institutions. It also calls for a review of Ontario’s Mental Health Act and Healthcare Consent Act to establish a more compassionate care model that respects individuals’ rights and dignity while ensuring necessary interventions.
Harini Silvalinga from the Canadian Civil Liberties Association cautioned against involuntary care, emphasizing the importance of holistic community-based treatments, safe consumption sites, and housing solutions rather than forced interventions. The campaign emphasizes the need for compassion and accountability in providing access to essential services while maintaining public safety and accessibility in shared spaces.
