Toronto’s Board of Health Reviews Annual Health Progress, Bids Farewell to Dr. Eileen de Villa

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At the November 18th Board of Health meeting, chaired by Toronto City Councillor Chris Moise, important discussions unfolded, shaping the future of Toronto’s health and wellness strategies. From appointing a new Medical Officer of Health to advancing solutions for the city’s drug toxicity crisis, the meeting addressed some of the most pressing challenges facing our communities. The first item on the agenda was the appointment of Toronto’s next Medical Officer of Health. As Dr. Eileen de Villa prepares to step down at the end of the year, the hiring committee and Phelps Group have finalized their search, with a recommendation for her successor now under review. Next, the Board reviewed the 2024 progress report for Our Health, Our City, a five-year strategy tackling mental health, substance use, and harm reduction. The report highlights progress made this year, including the citywide expansion of the Toronto Community Crisis Service and new initiatives to support affordable housing and 24/7 crisis services. One major focus remains the drug toxicity epidemic, which the Board continues to address as a public health crisis. Key recommendations include urging the Ontario government to maintain supervised consumption sites, integrate them with Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment Hubs, and fund a new Substance Use Crisis Centre for Toronto. The meeting also emphasized advancing an Indigenous Wellness Strategy, prioritizing harm reduction and mental health through Indigenous-led initiatives. Councillor Chris Moise acknowledged the steps taken and stressed the importance of continued collaboration to address the city's pressing health challenges. These discussions are especially relevant to the Regent Park community, highlighting the critical need for sustained harm reduction services and mental health support to address local challenges and promote community well-being.

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