The OPP and Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital have launched an innovative program to tackle mental health issues in Windsor and Essex County.
The C.O.A.S.T. (Community Outreach and Support Team) program was created to address a shortfall in care for those struggling with mental health issues.
“We feel coast will bridge the gap in mental health care, resulting in a better outcome for everyone,” says Essex County OPP Insp. Glenn Miller.
The community outreach and support team investigates tips and referrals from the community.
The team, consisting of a mental health worker and a police officer, meets with the individual to develop a management and follow up plan.
The program has been in place for about a month and a half.
The team responds to about six calls a day involving a number of issues including hoarding abuse and dementia.
About five people have already received medical treatment.
