Today, the Chatham-Kent Police Service would like to highlight their partnership with Chatham-Kent Employment & Social Services.
As of April 26, the Homeless Response Line at 519-354-6628 is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“This is great news,” according to Sgt. Doug Cowell, of the CKPS Community Mobilization Unit. “We’ve seen how the pandemic has affected a vulnerable population and we (police) are empathic towards those experiencing homelessness. Our goal is to assist ESS to ensure everyone has access to temporary housing and appropriate resources. By doing so, we hope to decrease police interactions and increase their stability in the community.”
“Homelessness is rarely a choice. Housing is essential and it affects all aspects of a person’s life. Without it, their stabilization is lost and their focus changes to surviving one day to the next,” said Tara Lauzon, Emergency Housing Supervisor. “The Chatham-Kent Emergency and Rapid Rehousing Program is about meeting people where they are at, to find the best solutions to obtain permanent housing for everyone. The van is a new addition and will be used primarily for outreach and to support those we are working with in staying connected with our community partners and resources.”
