A multi-agency forum known as the Situation Table is once again bringing together a strong network of Renfrew County community partners with one shared goal: to support individuals and families facing situations where there is an immediate risk to their safety or well-being.

 

Designed to identify and support those experiencing Acutely Elevated Risk – or a situation where there is a significant and immediate likelihood of harm occurring if no action is taken, this collaborative approach connects agencies so that they can respond quickly when time matters most. By working together, the partners can share information, coordinate the support needed, and take meaningful steps to help stabilize risk and improve the outcomes.

 

This initiative which also enables early intervention and helps to reduce gaps across the system, is co-chaired by the Pembroke Regional Hospital (Mental Health Services of Renfrew County - MHSRC) and Community Services at the County of Renfrew. It was relaunched March 24th after pausing in 2024. A successful kick-off meeting was attended by representatives of 13 organizations including:

 

• Mental Health Services of Renfrew County – Pembroke Regional Hospital

• Community Services – County of Renfrew

• HART Hub – County of Renfrew

• Addiction Treatment Services – Renfrew Victoria Hospital

• Upper Ottawa Valley OPP

• Renfrew OPP

• Probation and Parole

• Ontario Disability Support Program

• Victim Services of Renfrew County

• Pathways Alcohol and Drug Treatment Services

• Bernadette McCann House

• Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation

• Older Adult Protection and Regional Assault Care Program – Renfrew Victoria Hospital

 

“This relaunch is something worth celebrating,” said Sarah Selle, Clinical Director of Mental Health Services of Renfrew County. “Bringing the Situation Table back is an important step in how we support people and families when risks are high. When situations are serious and time matters, working together helps us act sooner and prevent harm. No single organization can do this alone - this initiative allows us to respond quickly and with care. It shows our commitment to working together as a community to keep people safe and supported across Renfrew County.”

 

It is anticipated that the Situation Table will expand to include more partners going forward, ultimately strengthening the group’s collective ability to respond quickly, creatively, and compassionately to complex situations in our community.

The Situation Table meets regularly each month and can be recalled as needed, creating a consistent and reliable space for partners to come together and respond to urgent situations.

 

It’s important to note that the Situation Table is not a direct service that the public can access independently. Referrals must come from participating agencies who have identified situations that are in need of a coordinated, multi-agency response. This ensures the table is focused on the most urgent cases where collaboration can make the greatest difference.

 

For Renfrew County residents who need immediate support, the Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 1-866-996-0991, connecting individuals with a trained professional to talk and receive support in the moment.

 

Access to other mental health services can be found by calling (613) 732-8770, extension 8006 or visiting the Access MHA website at www.accessmha.ca.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Carolyn Levesque, Public Affairs and Communications Coordinator

Pembroke Regional Hospital

(613) 732-3675, extension 6165 / carolyn.levesque@prh.ca