Downtown Oshawa is currently grappling with an unprecedented mix of homelessness, mental health challenges, and a dangerous drug supply. These issues are set to play a significant role in the upcoming municipal election, according to advocates and workers in the community. The latest statistics from the regional municipality show that nearly 2,000 individuals are experiencing homelessness in Durham Region, with half of them located in Oshawa.
As the incumbent Mayor Dan Carter opts not to run for re-election, voters will soon have to decide on new leadership for the city during this critical period. Recently, CBC Radio’s Metro Morning hosted a live show in downtown Oshawa to delve into the current situation with three frontline experts.
Beth Whalen, the harm reduction services coordinator at the John Howard Society of Durham Region, highlighted the significant shift in the street drug supply, which has become increasingly unpredictable. She mentioned that the previous primary drugs like OxyContin have been replaced by a toxic supply, leaving many unaware of the substances they are consuming. Whalen also mentioned the rise in suspected overdoses due to economic pressures post-COVID, leading to higher risks for individuals experiencing homelessness.
In a related development, paramedic calls for suspected overdoses in the region hit a four-year high earlier this year, according to opioid tracking data. Chris Cull, a peer support specialist at Lakeridge Health Oshawa’s Crisis Intervention Team, echoed concerns about the overwhelming caseloads in the emergency department due to complex issues.
The panel stressed the importance of a comprehensive system of social services to support individuals throughout their recovery journey. Kimberly Wazny, who heads the Oshawa HART Hub, a housing and drug treatment facility, emphasized the need for harm reduction and treatment. The program currently operates ten beds with plans to expand to serve 45 clients next year.
Advocates emphasized the need for mayoral candidates to address systemic issues rather than focusing on displacement in their visions for downtown revitalization and public safety. They pointed out municipal barriers, such as bylaws restricting new social service agencies, as obstacles that hinder access to essential services. Cull called for collaboration among service providers, local businesses, and residents to develop holistic solutions.
As the election for Oshawa’s mayor approaches on Oct. 26, there are currently nine candidates vying for the position.