A Saturday morning fire in the east end of the city, led to the local chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association into scramble mode.
Fire crews were called to the structure fire at around 9am at Armour Road and Paddock Wood, and found the north side of the buildings exterior fully engulfed. Crews worked quick to keep the flames from entering the building.
The cause of the fire was considered accidental, and was caused by discarded smoking materials, and caused $300,000 damage.
The financial damage was just part of the story for the CMHA HKPR, who says that the building belonged to them, and served as a safe bed facility.
The CMHA says that the fire caused damage to the building, temporarily suspending the services delivered from it. All staff and clients that were in the building at the time of the fire were able to safely evacuate and clients are being housed at a nearby motel.
Programs and services that came from the building were put on hold, including the Four County Crisis Hotline, however that hotline was restored at around 430pm, but, at a reduced capacity.
They say that while some lines are now available, callers may potentially face a “busy signal” when calling in. They are currently unable to receive voicemails due to damage to the system. They’re asking those that experience this “busy signal” to hang up, wait a short while and try calling again. For those in need of immediate support, contact the following:
The following phone numbers are also available for those looking for immediate mental health support:
Kids Help Phone 800-668-6868
Telecare Peterborough 705-745-2273
Durham Distress Centre 905-430-2522
Programs and services will resume on their normally scheduled hours at the CMHA’s three office locations Monday morning.
(photo courtesy Harrison Perkins Peterborough-Kawartha Lake News)
