Provincial funding approval for residential drug treatment and detox beds in Peterborough welcomed

Peterborough MPP Dave Smith’s announcement that $1.138 million in provincial money has been approved for 12 residential drug treatment and detox beds in Peterborough has put a huge smile on Donna Rogers’ face.

The executive director of Four Counties Addiction Services Team, or Fourcast, says the May 2nd announcement at the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Peterborough office is proof of increased recognition by government funders that drug addiction treatment and rehab is an important and lifesaving investment.

Rogers says the severity of the opioid poisoning crisis and an escalation in those struggling with addiction has brought a much needed and welcome response in terms of the funding needed.

With the hope that the beds’ location will be open come the fall, what isn’t known now is where the site will be. Rogers says a strong partnership with CMHA is a big plus in efforts to nail that down.

Along with the provincial funding for the two-year pilot project, the City and County have contributed $200,000 cover a funding shortfall.

(Written by: Paul Rellinger)