A new team will be dispatched to Owen Sound's River District next month to support the unhoused population and local businesses.
Safe ‘N Sound, in partnership with the Supportive Outreach Services (SOS), is launching a pilot program in November known as the Neighbourhood Response Team.
The team will serve as social navigators, responding to public and business concerns, connecting individuals with essential services, collecting personal items from public areas to be reclaimed by owners, and discarding sharps as required.
"Our goal is simple: offer compassionate, non-emergency support that helps people and lightens the load on emergency services," said Annette Pedlar, Executive Director of Safe 'N Sound Grey Bruce. "This pilot will not solve homelessness, yet it is a concrete step we can take now while we keep pushing for increased supports for vulnerable members of our community. We see this as a partnership with the public as much as with the City, and we invite our community to engage with us so we can make this work together."
The pilot's funding is provided by the federal government through Grey County and the SOS program. It is funded until March 31, 2026.
"The Neighbourhood Response Team is innovative, community-driven program that will help care for our vulnerable," said Owen Sound Mayor Ian Boddy. "We are grateful to Safe ‘N Sound, the SOS program, and our partners at Grey County and the Federal Government for their continuing leadership and commitment to making a real difference."
Residents and business owners will be able to reach the Neighbourhood Response Team by calling 211, or through a dedicated local number of 519-373-6263 once the program launches in early November.
A page on Safe ‘N Sound’s website will also provide up-to-date information about the pilot, how to request support, and an opportunity to share feedback and suggestions.
