Council approves $500K to support Integrated Care Hub shelter services

By Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist and Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

At their April 15 meeting, Council unanimously approved $500,000 to support shelter operations at the Integrated Care Hub (ICH) and reviewed a report from staff on the facility’s operations.

Located at 661 Montreal Street and operated by a consortium of organizations, the ICH offers low-barrier services including meals, rest spaces, and harm reduction supplies. 

Following a September 2024 incident in which two people were killed near the ICH, Council required the hub submit a safety plan and form a community consultation group to continue receiving funding—both of which were completed. In addition to these conditions, a staff report covering safety metrics was requested.

The report showed sharp increases in emergency services in the area after the ICH opened, but also highlighted the facility’s vital role in supporting vulnerable residents. In January 2025 alone, the ICH recorded 1,649 visits to its Access & Support Centre and 2,241 visits to its Consumption & Treatment Service. 

“I think that this is a step in the right direction”, Councillor Ridge noted in response to the report and city support to shelter services.

Listen to the full story here.