The Care Bus in Thunder Bay, Ontario, known as a mobile warming center, plays a crucial role in supporting the city’s most vulnerable residents during the cold winter months. Operated by NorWest Community Health Centres (NWCHC), the bus runs from mid-November to the end of March, making stops at various key locations like emergency shelters, meal services, libraries, and health and social service agencies. It offers free transportation to individuals in need.
Since its launch this season, the Care Bus has served approximately 2,650 riders, with an average of 75 riders daily. Additionally, it has interacted with over 700 people along its route by providing food and warm clothing. Due to the high demand, the bus has extended its operating hours in January and February, running from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily. The hours will revert to 1:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in March to accommodate the changing needs.
NWCHC CEO Juanita Lawson emphasized the importance of the extended service hours during the coldest months of January and February, ensuring that individuals have access to essential support. The Care Bus remained operational even during the winter holidays to address the limited availability of other services during that period.
The outreach workers on the Care Bus provide essential supplies, basic healthcare, and harm reduction support to riders. They establish connections with individuals and refer them to different resources, serving as a valuable model for engaging with vulnerable populations. NWCHC has shared its program’s successes and challenges with organizations in Ottawa and Windsor and offered support in developing similar initiatives.
Funded in part by Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addiction Program – Emergency Treatment Fund, the Care Bus has partnered with the Mindimooyenh Health Clinic to offer culturally sensitive healthcare services. Donations from organizations like the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northwestern Ontario and the DEK Foundation have also supported the initiative.
Carolyn Karle, president of the DEK Foundation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute by providing sandwiches and baked goods to riders and staff on the bus. The Care Bus contact number is 807-632-9732, and detailed information about its services and route is available online.
The Care Bus continues to serve as a vital resource for the community, demonstrating the importance of innovative approaches to supporting individuals with complex needs in the face of housing and addiction challenges.