Inmates released from Sudbury Jail face homelessness, toxic drug scene
Two local agencies that work with the homeless are concerned about the lack of support for people released from the Sudbury Jail.
The John Howard Society said some inmates are released from jail and go directly to living on the streets. In turn, that leads to them using drugs from a toxic supply.
Overdoses are the end result.
"Unfortunately we are continuing to see people affected by substance abuse," said Sarah Berghammer, CEO of the John Howard Society Sudbury.
“One thing that brings us hope is that we have a safe consumption site here in Sudbury … It's only be operational for a couple of months but I am hopeful that with that service that they are able to save some of the people that we are losing."
Berghammer said inmates often get out of jail in Sudbury with no release plan. Even discussing the dangers of substance abuse could help, she said.
"They could … remind them about substance use and how their level of tolerance may be low,” said Berghammer.
“There is some education that they could do that wouldn't take that much time.”
In response to a request, the Ministry of the Solicitor General sent this statement:
“The ministry has worked closely with the Ministry of Health to distribute nasal naloxone kits directly to at-risk inmates at all provincial correctional facilities at the time of their release. The ministry is also actively working with community health partners to identify care pathways for people with mental health and addictions needs who are returning to community care settings.”
The Homelessness Network said people who use drugs and spend time in institutions like hospitals, therapeutic facilities or jails can face risks upon their release.
"If they are without utilizing their drugs for a while their bodies change and sometimes they think can start using at the same level they did before entering an institution that would put them at extreme risk for overdosing," said Ray Landry, the coordinator of the Homelessness Network.
Both the Homelessness Network and the John Howard Society said connecting people with community supports and resources before their release from an institution could help save lives.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.