Burlington Celebrates Provincial Funding for New Mental Health Unit at Joseph Brant Hospital

Burlington, Ont.—Nov. 26, 2024— The City of Burlington is pleased to share the Ontario government’s announcement this week of funding for a new mental health unit at Joseph Brant Hospital. This investment reflects Burlington City Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing mental health and addiction services for residents and addressing critical gaps in care.

The Province’s funding follows sustained advocacy by Burlington City Council. In October 2021, Council directed Mayor Marianne Meed Ward to write to the Premier of Ontario, local Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), the Prime Minister, Members of Parliament (MPs), and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to champion Joseph Brant Hospital’s Mental Health and Addictions Redevelopment Project. In September 2024, City Council supported a motion calling on provincial and federal governments to commit to immediate action to solve the Humanitarian Crisis that Ontario is facing as the numbers of unhoused individuals and those suffering with mental health and addictions grows.

This week’s announcement of a new investment in Burlington’s mental health services will provide critical access to care for residents who call the City home now and those who are projected to join the local population in the years to come.

The new mental health unit at Joseph Brant Hospital will include:

• An adult outpatient area.
• Improved adult psychiatric intensive care.
• Expanded child and youth programming.
• Specialized programs with interdisciplinary teams of nurses, physicians, social workers, and psychiatrists for crisis intervention, assessment, and stabilization.

By prioritizing this investment, Burlington takes another significant step in preparing for its future growth, ensuring housing options, and addressing the most pressing needs of its community.

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Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward

“The community’s call for better mental health care has been heard and supported by the Province of Ontario. This project has long been identified as the top priority by the Burlington Ontario Health Team and many local community groups, as it will provide the essential mental health services our residents desperately need. In October 2021, Burlington City Council urged the Province to fund this project. In addition, OBCM’s #SolveTheCrisis campaign, which was also unanimously endorsed by Halton Regional Council, has also called for expanded mental health funding across the province. Together, we’ll ensure our community has access to the care, support, and resources every individual deserves.”

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