People Advocating for Change through Empowerment Inc., or PACE, has opened a new location in Thunder Bay, Ont. The new space has 12 new housing units next to the provincial HART hub.

People Advocating for Change through Empowerment Inc. is a consumer-survivor-run, non-profit organization, based in Thunder Bay, Ontario. PACE has 4 outreach offices located in Marathon, Manitouwadge, Geraldton, and Schreiber each office offering specialized mental health and addiction peer support among other programs.

PACE’s new location on George Street is just a few blocks from its previous home on Victoria Avenue East and across the road from Shelter House, which provides overnight accommodations. The new building offers a seasonal warming and cooling centre and has 12 new housing units upstairs for people navigating addiction recovery. The organization offers support to some of the community’s most vulnerable people suffering from depression, anxiety, and PTSD, offering them basic skills and healthy living classes. The organization also serves people affected by HIV/Aids and Hepatitis C.

The new centre is next to one of the province’s new Homeless and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs in Thunder Bay. This location makes it easier for people to access many services in one place, such as health care, addiction recovery, housing, and job support. At PACE, people experiencing homelessness can find food, clothing, showers, laundry, computers, and even new drug equipment to reduce health risks. The staff, who have lived through similar struggles, help connect clients to other programs and resources. Many clients see PACE as a safe, respectful space to meet people, get help, and avoid the streets. As colder weather arrives, PACE is asking for donations of warm clothing, blankets, and food.

Source: Sarah Law, CBC