Ontario is expanding addictions services in Sioux Lookout.
The government is investing $4.2 million to immediately enhance access to addictions treatment supports in the community.
The money is for the Sioux Lookout Friendship Accord Economic Development Corporation to expand access to 37 new addictions treatment beds in order to receive specialized care.
Mayor Doug Lawrance says the funding is critically important and welcomed to address mental health and addictions challenges.
Accord Executive Director Jacob Dockstator says the funding gives them the tools needed to build a healthy community.
The Corporation was founded in 2017 as part of an agreement between Cat Lake, Lac Seul, Slate Falls, Kichenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation and Sioux Lookout.
The money will establish 15 new addictions treatment beds, 16 supportive treatment beds, and six withdrawal management beds.
The government says studies have shown that opioid-related deaths surged by 79% during the first two waves of the pandemic, with rates being three times higher in Northern Ontario.
