Faith Leaders Urge Ford to Halt Closure of Ontario Supervised Consumption Sites

Ontario's plan to close 10 sites near schools and daycares sparks concerns over increased overdose deaths.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government plans to close 10 supervised consumption sites by March 31, 2025, citing proximity to schools and daycares.
Faith leaders gathered at Queen's Park, appealing to Ford's humanity to reverse the decision, warning of potential spikes in overdose deaths.
Health Minister Sylvia Jones announced a shift to an abstinence-based treatment model, prohibiting new supervised consumption sites from opening.
The Ford government will introduce 19 new 'homelessness and addiction recovery treatment hubs' and 375 supportive housing units, costing $378 million.
Advocates argue the closures will endanger vulnerable populations, while the government insists the new model will ensure community safety and support recovery.