Contentious day centre, supervised injection site opens in Montreal neighbourhood

Concerns among residents were not reassured as emergency crews and 1st responders were called to the Maison Benoit lab as it welcomed its first guests on its opening day. Despite the minor medical emergency, efforts to help the transition and appease, neighbors were clearly visible. Twice a day, the new cleanliness brigade will be deployed, sweeping the streets surrounding the area. A school corridor has also been established to ensure students can walk to and from class safely. Situated right next to a park and school, the location of the supervised injection site has sparked controversy among parents. Housing staff say safety is top of mind and are working closely with social workers and police. Despite the additional safety measures, some parents say they don’t go far enough. Borough officials admit they will take time to appease fears, but the societal need for such a service is great. One of the reason I have two kids and I don’t want my kids to be there. So I will move. There’s going to be people here that aren’t in the best condition for sure, but the the idea as a society, as a community, is to try to help people. Get into safe environments. Help them have an organized lives so that they can contribute more. Working closely alongside municipal officials, the housing project staff say all efforts will be kept up and modified if need to be to ensure a harmonious space for all residents of the area. Brayden, Jagger, Haynes, Global News, Montreal.