Canada Post Service Disruption Update

/
 

The ongoing Canada Post mail disruption may affect how some of our clients and tenants receive notices or payments.  The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) is implementing special procedures to ensure continuity of service until further notice.

We are here to support you with alternate options to avoid any delays.

Important Updates for Our Clients and Tenants

For Housing Tenants

We encourage all tenants to sign up for Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) to make paying your seamless and secure. PAD lets you pay your rent directly and automatically through your bank account. Rent will be paid on time without using mail services.

Avoid Delays… Sign up for PAD today!

For Third-Party Payees

For Ontario Works Clients:

Access important updates and payments details quickly and securely with MyBenefits

MyBenefits allows you to view your statements and notices online and avoid any delays caused by the postal disruption.

 Sign up for MyBenefits now.

Want to Stay Informed About the Postal Disruption?

While DTSSAB has alternate measures in place, we understand you may wish to stay updated on the status of the Canada Post service disruption.

You can find the latest news and updates here:

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to address these challenges.

Community Survey – Housing and Homelessness

/

In collaboration with consultant OrgCode Consulting Inc., DTSSAB is releasing a survey to continue the data collection efforts that took place on July 29th and 30th in Kirkland Lake and New Liskeard. DTSSAB extends sincere thanks to the 50-65 individuals who generously donated their time to participate in the community engagement sessions held throughout the district during the week of July 29th. Your involvement reflects a strong commitment to the community and to the development of strategies that support housing in our area. The success and sustainability of a Housing and Homelessness Plan tailored to the district's unique needs rely on this community input, as well as the valuable insights we've received from our partners.

This initiative plays a vital role in DTSSAB's Housing and Homelessness Plan, as required by the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The plan must be regularly reviewed and updated to align with current needs and conditions.

As the Service Manager for Community Housing and Homelessness, DTSSAB is dedicated to building a sustainable, integrated, and affordable housing system. This effort includes collaboration with local municipalities, various levels of government, private developers, non-profit housing providers, community agencies, local businesses, and residents. Key partners in this initiative include the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Salvation Army, Hope Haven, Zack’s Crib, and Pavilion.

As we continue the community engagement phase, please find the link below to complete a survey prepared by OrgCode Consulting Inc. Every perspective is valuable, even if you have already participated in the engagement sessions. Your input is crucial to creating an effective, sustainable plan. The survey will close September 10th, 2024.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DTSSABHousing

For any questions or issues accessing the survey, please reach out to communications@dtssab.com.

Community Outreach Underway to Assess the District’s Housing and Homelessness Needs

/

The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB), in partnership with key community partners, is updating its Housing and Homelessness plan to assess the district’s community housing and homelessness needs. With the support of OrgCode Consulting Inc., a leading firm in homelessness and housing solutions, this vital research will gather key insights and data to shape the future of its Community Housing and Homelessness programs in Timiskaming.

This initiative is a crucial component of DTSSAB's Housing and Homelessness Plan, as required by the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The plan must be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect current needs and conditions.

 As the Service Manager for Community Housing and Homelessness, DTSSAB is committed to creating a sustainable, integrated, affordable housing system. This initiative involves collaboration with local municipalities, levels of government, private developers, non-profit housing providers, community agencies, local businesses, and residents. Key partners include the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Salvation Army, Hope Haven, Zack’s Crib, and Pavilion.

The project will be conducted in three phases:

1.    Deepening the Understanding of the Current State;
2.   Consultations on the Desired Future State;
3.   Development of Updated Housing and Homeless Plan;

Community Consultations: To ensure the plan reflects the community's voice and values, consultations will be held:

North Timiskaming: Tuesday, July 30th at 6:00 PM at the Salvation Army. (6 Sylvanite Street, Kirkland Lake)

South Timiskaming: Wednesday, July 31st at 1:30 PM at the Salvation Army. (206 Whitewood Avenue W, New Liskeard)

 

If a member of the community wishes to attend, please contact communications@dtssab.com. Virtual attendance will also be available. 

DTSSAB EMS Celebrates 2024 Paramedic Services Week

/

May 19th-25th marks Paramedic Services week, a time to reflect and appreciate the paramedics who work every day to keep us and our communities healthy and safe. This year we reflect on the profound respect we hold for the legacy of paramedicine while embracing the innovative strides shaping its future.

Since its beginning, paramedicine has been synonymous with unwavering dedication and selflessness. Paramedics respond to emergencies with compassion, skill, and valour. Their commitment to saving lives, often under challenging circumstances, embodies the very essence of public service.

In celebrating the past, from the humble beginnings of emergency medical response to the advancements in out-of-hospital care, each chapter of our history is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who came before. In reflection on achievements of the past, we also look ahead with optimism and determination. The future of paramedicine is defined by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Through cutting-edge technology, advanced training, and community engagement, we are reshaping the landscape of emergency medical services.

Quotes:

Chief Sarah Salvis – “Paramedic Services Week is an opportunity to say thank you to all the DTSSAB staff that contribute to our success in the community. Thank you to our paramedics, leadership, and administrative staff who were there yesterday, are present today, and will be there tomorrow. I am honoured to be a part of this Team. I look forward to forging our future together. Please stay safe. Thank you.”

Chief Administrative Officer, Mark Stewart - “As CAO, I want to take this special opportunity to appreciate our dedicated paramedics, and EMS leadership team. Your efforts in emergency response and preventive community paramedicine are crucial to our healthcare ecosystem. Thank you for every life you touch and every individual you care for. You make a difference, and your service is one of the foundations of our district’s safety and well-being."

Questions or interview requests can be directed to communications@dtssab.com

No Tenants Injured Resulting from Fire at 37 Tenth Street

/

Just after 5:20 PM on April 30th, 2024, there was a minor fire at 37 Tenth Street, Earlton, in a tenant’s unit. The fire, due to the construction of the building, was contained to the one unit. The safety measures in the building were efficiently implemented with all tenants being evacuated safely to the DTSSAB Housing Building located at 41 Tenth Avenue and the local fire department attending the building.

The fire was quickly controlled and then extinguished. The building was cleared by the Armstrong Fire Department the same evening, permitting tenants to re-enter their units. At present it was determined that the damage was restricted to the unit in question.

The DTSSAB is thankful for the cooperation of the tenants of the building and the assistance of the Armstrong Fire Department in this timely and effective response.

Any queries can be directed to communications@dtssab.com

DTSSAB Passes 2024 Budget and Re-Elects Chair and Vice-Chair

/

On January 17th, the DTSSAB Board passed the 2024 Budget of $41,908,814, total expenditures with $463,000 used from the Working Fund Reserve to offset the municipal apportionment increase from 5.36% to 0%.

 The 2024 Budget increase is a result of key factors including:

 -  Fluctuating funding where many programs’ costs have been progressively downloaded to municipalities, such as in Housing Services and Children’s Services

-  Inflation has had a significant impact on insurance costs, vehicle and ambulance procurement, salaries, and labour and materials costs for necessary capital repairs to housing stock

The Board, which consists of seven appointed municipal representatives and two elected representatives from the territories without municipal representation, bring the viewpoint of the local taxpayer and their municipality to the table and ensures that the budget is fair and responsible in delivering the services that the DTSSAB has been mandated to deliver.

The DTSSAB Board also re-elected Derek Mundle, of Evanturel as Board Chair, and Pat Kiely from Kirkland Lake as Vice-Chair. The approved 2024 Board Meeting schedule can be found on the DTSSAB’s website at: https://www.dtssab.com/board-meetings.

QUOTES

Derek Mundle, Board Chair – “The DTSSAB’s mission is to deliver programs and services through effective use of available resources in the best interest of the individuals we support. This mission guided the DTSSAB Team in the formulation of this budget, where despite increased costs – program delivery remains the primary focus. To ensure the sustainability and resilience of our programs, and also minimize the impact on our municipal partners, the Board has elected to offset the budgetary increase by leveraging $463,000 from the Working Fund Reserve. This fiscally responsible approach allows DTSSAB to continue to meet the growing demands of our services while minimizing the financial impact on citizens across the district.”

"I'm thankful for the support of the board and feel privileged to hold the position of Chair for another year. DTSSAB staff and the board consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to providing Social and Emergency Medical Services across Timiskaming and also a keen awareness of current financial realities."

Mark Stewart, Chief Administrative Officer - "In my role, there is a focus on pragmatic oversight and strategic financial management. Our dedicated team has navigated the challenging waters of rising inflationary costs, decreased or static government funding, and the complex demands of managing housing services costs while being aware of the impact on our municipal billing. Our primary goal has always been to ensure value for public money. This year, despite these hurdles, we've successfully maintained a reasonable budget increase. This achievement is a testament to our team's innovative thinking and commitment to balancing service delivery with fiscal responsibility. In each step, we've ensured our dedication to the community, ensuring every dollar spent is an investment in our services."

CONTACT
Contact communications@dtssab.com for clarification or interview requests.

DTSSAB Acknowledges National Housing Day and Two-Year Anniversary of By Name List Launch

/

As National Housing Day approaches on November 22nd, The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) is proud to join the nation in acknowledging this significant day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe and affordable housing for all.

This National Housing Day marks a special milestone for DTSSAB as we celebrate the two-year anniversary of the launch of the By Name List. This innovative tool has proven to be a crucial asset in our ongoing efforts to address homelessness in our district. The By Name List facilitates collaboration among community partners, allowing for the seamless sharing of data to identify individuals at risk or currently experiencing homelessness. This collaborative approach ensures that those in need receive timely and targeted support from a network of dedicated service providers.

Since its launch two years ago, the By Name List has played a pivotal role in improving the coordination and effectiveness of our efforts to assist individuals facing housing challenges, assisting over 101 community members. The tool has not only enhanced communication among service providers but has also helped streamline the process of connecting vulnerable individuals with the appropriate support services.

The DTSSAB invites the community to join us in celebrating National Housing Day and recognizing the positive impact of the By Name List on our collective efforts to combat homelessness. As we reflect on the progress made over the past two years, we acknowledge the resilience of those we serve and express our gratitude to our dedicated partners and supporters who have contributed to the success of this initiative.

For more information about DTSSAB and our housing-related services, please visit www.dtssab.com/housing-services.

For media inquiries, please contact:
communications@dtssab.com