Media Statement:

Cornerstone Housing for Women statement on decision to end funding for CTS services

Ottawa, ON - March 17, 2026

Over the weekend, you may have heard the news that the provincial government will be cutting funds for Consumption and Treatment Sites (CTS) in Ottawa starting this June.

Cornerstone is deeply disappointed by the provincial government’s decision to stop funding CTS this spring. We value the vital role these sites play in supporting the health and safety of our community. We know the incredible things that happen in these sites: connection - to people who care, to case management services, to referrals to treatment, to community.

We know this is difficult news for many of us, as we see firsthand the positive impact these sites play on the lives of the people we serve and our broader community. We continue to feel the impacts of the Somerset West CTS closure; we know how devastating this will be for the Byard Market and surrounding area.

Cornerstone will continue to advocate for sustained funding and support from all levels of government for harm reduction services, which play a critical role in the health and wellbeing of our community.

We urge the provincial government to reconsider this decision and take a comprehensive look at the data demonstrating the impact of CTS. These sites save lives, reduce pressure on hospitals, and help people connect with housing, stability, and healthcare.

Closures like this increase stigmatization for people who use drugs – we call on our community to share the right information, have conversations with people in your lives, and standing up for people who use drugs - they need our support right now.

Image Credit: Somerset West Community Health Centre