Journal staff
The County of Lambton’s Integrated Homelessness Prevention Team was honoured recently with an award from the Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA).
The Local Municipal Champion Award “recognizes exceptional work done in advancing excellence in human services integration and service system management by teams from Consolidated Municipal Service Managers and District Social Services Administration Boards across the province,” a news release stated.
The award was presented at the 2023 Exchange Conference held in Ottawa.
“The County of Lambton developed the Integrated Homelessness Prevention Team to support integration efforts and meet the needs of the increasing number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Valerie Colasanti, general manager, social services division.
“We’re thrilled that the team’s ongoing hard work is being recognized through this award. The team, made up of staff from both the Ontario Works and Homelessness Prevention departments, uses an innovative intensive case management model to help people exit the emergency shelter system, provide stability supports, and secure housing.”
As an award winner, the County was invited to participate in a presentation and panel discussion highlighting the team’s work.
That work includes connecting individuals and families to community support services including primary health care, harm reduction services, and mental health supports.
“The team has been successful in transitioning over 230 people into safe, affordable, and permanent housing since its formation,” the county added.