The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) has a Community Engagement and Wellbeing Branch focused on improving relations with individuals affected by mental health issues and homelessness. Established over two years ago, this branch has 17 officers, including Const. James Mitchell, who combines social work with law enforcement duties. Const. Mitchell and his team work to build long-term relationships with people in need, often checking in regularly with those living on the streets or in encampments. Their goal is to address root causes and collaborate with partner organizations like Lutherwood, oneROOF Youth Services, and Sanguen Health Centre to find sustainable solutions. This approach aims to reduce the frequency of police calls by resolving underlying issues.
The branch has been involved in various success stories, including helping a local homeless man secure housing at the Erbs Road hybrid shelter through collaboration with community organizations. The team’s efforts reflect their belief in the fulfillment derived from seeing individuals move towards stability and independence. However, some concerns have been raised about the program’s implications. Shannon Down, Executive Director of Waterloo Region Community Legal Services, worries that increased police engagement might lead to higher surveillance of homeless individuals, potentially raising privacy issues and exacerbating scrutiny. She questions the role of policing in addressing chronic homelessness.
Conversely, poverty and homelessness advocate Joe Mancini supports the police involvement, citing the critical role it plays in addressing mental health and addiction issues. He emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between police and community organizations to support individuals effectively. Ultimately, the branch’s goal is to optimize WRPS resources by resolving issues so effectively that repeat visits to the same locations become unnecessary.
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