The Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario and the Ontario Federation of Community Mental Health and Addictions Programs/Addictions Ontario are delighted to endorse Ontario’s new budget. The budget provides investments for some of this province’s most vulnerable residents, including seniors and adults with mental health and addiction needs; and those receiving social assistance. Today’s budget provides one percent additional funding for Ontario’s home and community services, including community mental health and addictions. “The government’s investment in the community sector will increase availability of services for adults with mental health and/or addiction needs. We applaud the government for recognizing the vital role of community-based services by investing upstream”, said Camille Quenneville, CEO of CMHA Ontario.
Ontario’s Comprehensive Mental Health and Addictions Strategy began with an initial focus on children and youth. Implementation will now be expanded to focus on adults, beginning in 2014/15.
Ontario’s older adults often face mental health and addiction issues as they age, including depression and anxiety. Today’s budget will help older adults access services and supports to live well at home, and in their own communities. In addition, increases in social assistance rates and changes in rules will benefit recipients.
“The continued commitment of Ontario’s government to move the 10 year mental health and addiction strategy forward, support for community-based services, and steps to address poverty puts the government on track to improve the health of all Ontarians,” commented David Kelly, Executive Director of OFCMHAP/AO.
For More Information, please contact:
Michelle Gold, Senior Director Policy and Planning, CMHA Ontario
mgold@ontario.cmha.ca
David Kelly, Executive Director, OFCMHAP/AO
dkelly@ofcmhap.on.ca
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