Kingston community agencies extending closure of 661 Montreal Street to review safety improvements to Integrated Care Hub and Consumption Treatment Services  

Access to 661 Montreal St. and the adjacent area known as the Belle Park Encampment closed to the public on Thursday, Sept. 12 for Kingston Police to complete its criminal investigation into the tragic events of that day. We remain deeply saddened and concerned for all impacted. The investigation is now complete, and the site has been released to the City of Kingston and related agencies providing services at the Integrated Care Hub (ICH). 

With the site now released by Kingston Police, the partners of the ICH and the City advise that perimeter security fencing and police presence will remain in place and access to 661 Montreal St. will remain closed. Community agencies and the City recognize that substantive operational changes need to be made to 661 Montreal St. to preserve the safety of the individuals accessing services, site staff, and the public. It is important we take appropriate time to assess required changes to ensure service improvements and enhanced safety for all. 

The additional closure time will be used to review operations and safety/security matters of the building and area. Partners and City staff are committed to improving safety for everyone in this area. The services of the ICH are crucial to support the most vulnerable in our community and it will reopen and reopen safely. Further information and notice will be provided once a date has been confirmed.

Over the coming days, the City and Partners will enable coordinated access for people who were sheltering in the encampment to access their personal belongings. Partners will be available to offer support for this process during the interim period. During this undefined extended closure, community agencies continue to provide street outreach and support to displaced individuals. AMHS-KFLA Crisis Lines are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 613-544-4229 or toll free 1-866-616-6005.

Addiction & Mental Health Services, Kingston Community Health Centres, Kingston Police and the City of Kingston remain committed to updating the community as measures to improve neighbourhood safety are implemented. 

Further updates will be provided as soon as possible.

Background:  The ICH is supported by a group of integrated partners (AMHS-KFLA, Trellis HIV & Community Care, KCHC, Providence Care and Home Base Housing) who work together to provide low-barrier services to address the needs of individuals who access care, many of whom are unhoused and have substance and/or mental health concerns.