Change is coming to the way Reach Out Chatham-Kent (R.O.C.K.) delivers its vital programming to the most vulnerable in the community.
R.O.C.K. has announced that as of April 1, the drop-in centre on Richmond Street in Chatham will be closed all week, except on Wednesdays. However, the drop-in centre on Nelson Street in Wallaceburg will be open every weekday from 1 to 5 p.m., except Wednesdays.
The agency said its current funding grant is coming to an end and it has decided to focus its funding on encampment and homelessness outreach and community impact and training in relation to opioid emergency response.
R.O.C.K. noted drop-in services will continue at the centre in Chatham on Wednesdays from 1-5 p.m. for the Pathways 2 Care clinic and engagement with the Street Health team from Windsor.
The community outreach agency said it will serve the Wallaceburg community through outreach on Wednesdays while the centre is closed on that day.
"With changes in funding come changes in programming. Recently we began to provide outreach seven days per week, focused mainly on encampment and outdoor locations, with a secondary focus on congregate living situations. This allows us to have a more focused approach to how we engage our friends," said Reach Out Chatham-Kent.
R.O.C.K. noted it will still support the Peer-2-Peer and People with Lived/Living Expertise programs.
"To our community and partners – We are still committed to being the strong community partner that we are. We recognize the impact that we have had on our ability to work with you, and for you, in engaging those experiencing homelessness. While, currently, we must make decisions based on funding, our resolve to serve as effectively as we can has not changed. And our commitment to working as collaboratively as possible with each of you has not changed. We appreciate your patience as we implement these changes and appreciate your support," R.O.C.K. said.
R.O.C.K. said on average, it serves 30-60 people a day.
Click here for more information on donating and volunteering.
