CMHA Hastings Prince Edward has announced that services currently being offered at Bridge Street United Church in Belleville will close on March 31, 2025.
Services will move temporarily to 125 Church Street South in Belleville beginning April 1 at 11 a.m. where they will remain until the renovations
at the permanent home for the Bridge Integrated Care Centre (The Bridge), located at 1 Alhambra Square, are completed.
The temporary site will offer essential services, including a drop-in centre, food assistance, access to primary health care, addiction and mental health counseling, and connections to other supports.
“We are pleased to have secured a temporary location for The Bridge. Bridge Street United Church has been a terrific partner, and we’ve appreciated their support and accommodation for the drop-in program services over the years,” says Kara Petit, executive director at the John Howard Society of Belleville, in a press release.
“Opening The Bridge at this temporary location will serve as a good transition point until the permanent facility at 1 Alhambra Square is ready. It provides a stable and appropriate facility, and allows us to make some important changes in the meantime.”
The integrated care model that will be implemented is part of the HART Hub, that was announced in January 2025.
“With the recently-announced HART Hub funding, we are expanding our support for individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and addiction. While neither The Bridge nor the HART Hub network can solve the homelessness crisis or the toxic drug supply issue alone, this investment is a significant step forward in strengthening community resources and creating meaningful impact,” says Lisa Ali, CEO of CMHA HPE, in the release.
In addition, it was announced that Ashley Vader has been appointed as the new director of The Bridge.
Vader is the former director of operations at Grace Inn Shelter.
Steve van de Hoef, who is currently serving as interim director of The Bridge, will transition to a new role that CMHA says will provide leadership for implementing the HART Hub and ensuring seamless alignment between services.
