It has come to the attention of Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Algoma that a mayoral candidate recently published an opinion editorial in an online news source about the Verdi, our low barrier shelter in the Soo.
While we appreciate public dialogue about our local mental health and addictions landscape, we do not condone the approach the candidate used to better understand how the shelter operates. Individuals accessing our services are often experiencing tremendously difficult situations of mental health, addiction and/or homelessness. The opinion of the author stigmatizes the marginalized individuals we support and paints a picture that may deter individuals from using the services at the Verdi. The comments were unfair to our dedicated and committed staff, undermining the hard work and pressures they face every day supporting our most vulnerable community members.
The Verdi shelter, operated by CMHA Algoma, offers support to males in our community who are experiencing either chronic homelessness or short-term homelessness. Typically, we have space for 35-37 individuals. Our services provide shelter and a space to sleep, 3 meals per day, medical services, laundry and shower facilities, and supports from shelter staff as well as several community partners.
The candidate suggests his stay didn’t displace someone in need.
Unfortunately, most days the shelter’s beds are full and individuals seeking shelter must be diverted. Staff do everything to accommodate those needing support at the Verdi. With almost 60 years of community service, CMHA Algoma has forged strong local partnerships to provide a coordinated, continuum of care using the social determinants of health model. If there is no available space at the Verdi or services don’t meet an individuals’ needs, staff ensure they have access to appropriate community supports.
A historical lack of provincial funding has been a significant challenge for every CMHA. Unlike other areas of health care, CMHAs rarely receive annual budget increases, which impedes our ability to expand services and reduce wait lists. This only increases the pressures on our dedicated staff, many of whom are emotionally exhausted or burned out from increased demand for service. This difficulty with health human resources is a priority issue for the community mental health and addictions sector.
While the opinion piece paints a false and negative picture, our door is always open to all prospective council, mayoral candidates, and members of the public to provide accurate information and highlight the state of mental health and addiction care in the communities we serve. We encourage anyone with an interest or requiring information to reach out to us.
Pamela Lefave, Director of Services
(on behalf of Annette Katajamaki, CEO)
Canadian Mental Health Association, Algoma