The Superior North Specialized Treatment and Alternative Responders, or STAR team, will be launching this year with the intent of reducing load on police and emergency medical services while also giving people experiencing homelessness or addictions crisis a new way to get the supports they need.
Michael Tibollo, associate minister of mental health and addictions for Ontario, said the plan for the team came from local sources to help ensure the emergency room remains reserved for patients who actually require it. “We listened to what the needs were in Thunder Bay. We’re going to address the issues in Thunder Bay with local solutions that are client centred, that are holistic, that are going to meet the person where they are. We’re going to ensure that they have that continuum of care in the community.”