Hamilton hospitals, drop-in centre partner to offer warm space for patients with nowhere to go

On chilly nights, finding safe places for unhoused patients to go can be a challenge, according to emergency department doctors in Hamilton. However, a new collaboration with the downtown drop-in center, The Hub, has provided a solution for local hospital networks.

Dr. Erich Hanel, interim chief of emergency medicine at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, explained in an interview that patients who are ready to leave the hospital are often discharged with instructions for follow-up care. However, this poses a problem when individuals have nowhere to go or lack access to resources.

In extreme cold weather conditions, discharging patients becomes even more difficult. Dr. Alim Pardhan, chief of emergency medicine at Hamilton Health Sciences, mentioned that on dangerously cold nights, some unhoused individuals end up staying overnight in emergency departments because finding shelter is a challenge.

The new pilot program, a partnership between St. Joe’s, HHS, and The Hub, has proven to be a valuable resource for individuals experiencing homelessness. Since its launch just before Christmas, the program has assisted at least 40 people. The Hub, located on Vine Street, is open seven days a week from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. and serves as a low-barrier site, welcoming individuals who may not be accepted at traditional shelters due to certain restrictions.

Jen Bonner, executive director of The Hub, emphasized the importance of this partnership, calling it a vital lifeline for the unhoused community facing numerous challenges. The pilot program is currently funded through the end of March.

The staff at The Hub, which includes outreach workers, healthcare students, and individuals training to be police officers, play a crucial role in connecting patients with necessary care and follow-up appointments. Dr. Hanel highlighted the significance of having resources available at The Hub for patients with chronic conditions and winter-related health risks like frostbite and hypothermia.

Both Dr. Hanel and Dr. Pardhan expressed satisfaction with the program, noting that connecting patients to The Hub has been effective. They believe that having more shelter spaces and services available is essential for addressing the needs of the unhoused population.

The success of this program in Hamilton has sparked interest from other organizations, with Dr. Hanel suggesting that it could serve as a valuable model for similar initiatives. The recent announcement of funding for a peer support program in hospitals further demonstrates the commitment to addressing the challenges faced by unhoused individuals.

In conclusion, the collaboration between hospital networks and The Hub has provided a much-needed solution for unhoused patients in Hamilton, showcasing the importance of community partnerships in addressing homelessness and healthcare needs.