Councillor McQueen left the meeting at 10:24 a.m. and returned at 10:27 a.m.
Dr. Cristancho, Scientist for the Centre for Education Research & Innovation at Western University, presented on the findings from the research herself and Dr. Eby prepared. She noted that 31 interviews were conducted with a diverse group of participants including members of the mobile team, staff and leaders from partner organizations.
Dr. Cristancho noted that the Supportive Outreach Services (SOS) initiative began in a crisis at a rooming house back in 2022. What followed was remarkable and has since evolved into a mobile multi-agency team. The people that the SOS team supports often face multiple levels of care. Their goal was to listen closely and analyze carefully to bring findings back to the report where six key lessons emerged.
First, trust cannot be rushed. SOS reminds us that trust is the real intervention and is what makes care possible.
Second, partnerships are rooted in relationships. She noted that many partner organizations come together to solve problems and build relationships.
Third, leadership creates room for action. The team is clearing the path so others can act while flattening hierarchy's and removing red tape.
Fourth, flexibility is essential. The team meets people on their terms. She noted that when one agency hits a wall another steps in, and when care is flexible it becomes human.
Fifth, mobility bridges gaps. SOS doesn't wait for people to come to them, they go to where they are. The team meets people emotionally and relationally in spaces where they feel most like themselves. This makes access possible and trust achievable.
Last, sustainability requires investment noting that the team can't rely on good-will alone and needs stable funding to continue this great work.
SOS has shown what is possible with the effort and impact they are bringing each day. She noted that belief needs to be nurtured not through force but trust and that human connection still matters.
Dr. Eby noted that the SOS team is very special. He thanked Council for the support given to the SOS team over the last four years and thanked the team for their ongoing dedication.