NEWMARKET, ON — York Region has committed $5 million to support the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) York-Simcoe in building a new mental health and addictions hub in Newmarket. The funding, confirmed by York Region Council on December 5, will help establish the facility at 17255 Yonge St. The CMHA anticipates that the facility will be operational by 2026, following the completion of provincial approvals.
Newmarket Mayor John Taylor emphasized that while the facility will be based in Newmarket, it is designed to serve the entire York Region. “When you talk about homelessness or youth mental health, this is a massive step forward,” Taylor said. “This is something that I think virtually every community in Ontario will be looking to replicate.”
The new mental health hub is set to provide a centralized location for individuals seeking mental health and addiction services, including those in crisis. The hub aims to address a critical gap in mental health services by offering a one-stop resource for residents, improving access to timely support and potentially reducing demand on local hospitals.
In addition to benefiting Newmarket, the hub is expected to support residents from all nine municipalities across York Region. According to a staff report, the new facility will not only provide specialized mental health and addiction services but also help alleviate pressure on local hospitals by diverting some of the demand for emergency care, freeing up hospital resources for other urgent needs.
York Region is funding the project by drawing from its reserves. This capital grant was initially tentatively approved in June 2023, and with provincial approvals now secured, it has been officially confirmed.
While some Newmarket residents voiced concerns about the potential impact of the hub during a September council meeting, CMHA representatives reassured the community that they are committed to working closely with local residents and stakeholders to address any issues and ensure the hub integrates well into the neighborhood.
Mayor Taylor expressed deep gratitude to CMHA York-Simcoe CEO Rebecca Shields, recognizing her leadership in making the project a reality. “Thank you for your amazing contributions to this community,” Taylor said. “This is a legacy that will live on for decades.”
The creation of this new mental health hub marks a significant investment in mental health care for the region, providing much-needed resources for individuals struggling with mental health and addiction issues. It reflects a growing commitment to improving mental health services in Ontario and addressing the challenges faced by those in need of care.
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