Social service organizations in Sault Ste. Marie are calling on the province to establish a Justice Centre that would provide integrated supports for individuals involved in the justice system. The proposed model would connect people leaving custody with housing, addictions, mental health, education, and employment services to help address the root causes of crime and reduce the cycle of homelessness and reincarceration.

Local advocates say the need for additional supports is growing. At the time of reporting, 461 people were experiencing homelessness in Sault Ste. Marie, including 99 individuals housed within the Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre. Community leaders believe a Justice Centre could improve discharge planning, strengthen collaboration between service providers, and help connect vulnerable residents with the supports needed to achieve long-term stability.