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The $170,000 price tag is to purchase two new vans to replace the current ones, which are seeing increased downtime due to mechanical issues. (Photo: LNN)

Lethbridge City Council to look at federal funding for new Diversion Outreach Team vans

Jun 23, 2023 | 2:30 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge City Council is looking into approving $170,000 worth of funding towards the Diversion Outreach Team (DOT) for new vehicles.

The DOT is one of the services contracted by the Community Social Development Department, aimed at providing help to vulnerable community members.

The DOT provides support and referrals for individuals experiencing addiction and other high-risk situations such as homelessness, mental/physical health issues, and engagement in the sex trade. It also co-ordinates transport for the individuals to the appropriate services such as intox/detox centres and shelters.

The matter was brought up on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 during the economic standing policy committee meeting. General manager of community social development, Andrew Malcolm, gave the funding request to the committee, along with three other requests for a total of up to $480,000.

The other requests include:

  • $90,000 over four years for a population support navigator position at the Lethbridge Wellness Centre and Stabilization Unit.
  • $200,000 to bring in a consultant to complete an assessment and a strategic update to the City of Lethbridge Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy.
  • Up to $20,000 annually for the Integrated Coordinated Access Engagement Service Fair.

The $170,000 price tag in the initiative is to purchase two new vans to replace the currently active ones, which are seeing increased downtime due to mechanical issues caused by high demand, according to officials. The money for the vehicles will be sourced from unallocated federal Reaching Home funds.

The van funding was debated in the Wednesday meeting, with opposition from city councillor John Middleton-Hope, who thought there were more avenues to be considered before requesting, and committing, to the funding. On the other hand, councillors Ryan Parker and Belinda Crowson supported the request, saying the new vans will work towards continuing the successful impact the program has had in the community.

It was voted by the committee to recommend that council approve all four requests.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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