Peel receives funding for isolation site for those unable to self-isolate

December 3, 2020 · 0 Comments

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Region of Peel has received funding, effective December 1, for an isolation site after concerns were raised over individuals not being able to self-isolate after testing positive for the COVID-19 virus.

When individuals are tested positive of the COVID-19, they are ordered to self-isolate for 14 days to contain and stop the spread of the virus.

One key concern that the Region of Peel has noticed over the past while is crowded households, or barriers, restricting individuals from being able to safely isolate without the possibility of transmission.

Due to these issues, Federal Health Minister Patty Hajdu announced funding in amount of $6.5 million to construct a safe, voluntary isolation site in Peel region for the next 16 months.

Peel Public Health Medical Officer of Health Dr. Lawrence Loh expressed his excitement with the news and outlined how the grant will help Peel.

“We are excited to receive this funding and to be able to expand our capacity to support more Peel residents during such a difficult and unprecedented time,” he said in a recent press conference. “This funding will enable the Region to accommodate more residents who are challenged to self-isolate at home.”

Individuals who require going to the isolation site will be able to isolate for the required period of time of 14 days.

“Self-isolation is a key step in stopping the chain of COVID-19 transmission because the virus cannot spread when we stay apart,” he continued.

Peel is the second location to receive the grant to establish the Safe Voluntary Isolation Site. Toronto was the first to participate with a pilot project site earlier this year.

These sites include a total of 40 units for individuals to use, but can reach a total of 80 units if needed.

Local public health officials will identify residents who require a new location to self-isolate in which they will offer the isolation site as a temporary and voluntary solution.

“It is evident disparities exist within our community, and that these disparities effect our ability to do all we can to reduce the level of risk and keep our residents safe,” said Loh.

The Region of Peel has consistently been working towards helping residents who have struggled with housing and homelessness in the region, and this new program is another step in the right direction to ensure proper safety measures are taken for Peel residents.

“As we work together to protect Canadians from COVID-19, the Federal Government is supporting communities with the Safe Voluntary Isolation Sites Program,” said Minister Hajdu. “These spaces will help lower community spread by supporting safe spaces for Canadians who are not able to safely self-isolate due to housing conditions or financial constraints.”

For further information, please visit peelregion.ca.