Timmins, ON – The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) is proud to announce the launch of a new pilot project in Timmins through the Cochrane District Paramedic Service (CDPS) called Response, Engagement, Assistance & Community Health (REACH). This innovative new project is an initiative through the CDPS, designed to address a rapidly growing number of “no patient contact” calls, where emergency services are called by people who see someone lying or sleeping in a public space and are concerned they are experiencing a medical emergency.
Using ambulance call data to identify high-volume times, REACH operates seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. using an existing response SUV. Focusing on proactive outreach, REACH paramedics connect with people in known high-frequency public areas rather than waiting for a 911 call. Paramedics, often accompanied by social workers, assess immediate health needs, provide basic supports, and connect people with community services. REACH does not replace emergency ambulance response, and emergency resources continue to be deployed whenever urgent medical care is required.
During its first week of operation, the REACH project connected with 440 individuals, distributed 119 naloxone kits, and handed out over 250 bottles of water. Paramedics identified 25 situations where a 911 call was likely prevented through proactive outreach and engagement. The project will continue to operate seven days a week until November 30th, 2026. Residents and businesses can expect to see a marked response SUV and paramedics engaging with individuals in parks, downtown areas, and other public spaces throughout the community.
“In its early days, the REACH project is already demonstrating its value by finding and helping people who were avoiding or unable to access medical care despite having serious health needs in addition to preventing 911 calls through a more appropriate response,” shares Marc Renaud, Chief of the Cochrane District Paramedic Service. “For us, success is not only about reducing no patient contact calls, but also about reaching vulnerable people, improving health outcomes, and ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.”
REACH was created in response to both the growing number of individuals experiencing homelessness across the Cochrane District and a dramatic increase in no patient contact calls. Historically, the CDSB responded to approximately 300 to 500 of these calls annually. In 2025, the number grew to approximately 3,000, and it’s projected that paramedics could respond to between 5,000 and 6,000 of these calls in 2026.
A key component of the program is collaboration with community agencies. CDSB is currently working to pair paramedics with social workers, outreach workers, and other health and social service professionals who can assist with housing, mental health, addictions and shelter access. These partnerships aim to address the underlying issues that often contribute to repeat calls for service.
“The REACH project reflects the kind of innovative, community-focused thinking that is needed to meet the current challenges our District is facing,” says Mayor Michelle Boileau, Chair of the Cochrane District Services Board. “This pilot project is about ensuring that emergency resources remain available for true medical emergencies, while creating meaningful opportunities to connect vulnerable residents with the supports they need. This project is a practical solution that benefits both our community and the health care system.”
The REACH project carries an approximate cost of $350,000 annually and utilizes existing vehicles and resources. During this period, CDSB will continue to evaluate program outcomes, strengthen community partnerships, and measure impacts including calls prevented, service referrals, ambulance unit-hours recovered and overall system benefits
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About the Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB)
The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) is a regional leader in delivering essential social and emergency services across Northeastern Ontario. Serving a diverse and expansive region, CDSB provides integrated programs in paramedic services, housing, children’s services, and community development and services.
With a strong focus on community partnerships and equity, CDSB is committed to supporting the well-being of all residents—including Indigenous, Francophone, and other equity-deserving populations. Through innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of District needs, CDSB works to ensure accessible, high-quality services that build stronger, healthier communities.
For more information, please contact:
Kaileigh Russell
Communications Manager, Cochrane District Services Board
kaileigh.russell@cdsb.care
(O) 705-268-7722 Ext. 244
(C) 705-406-9286
Photo Caption:
Cochrane District Paramedic Services Paramedic Oan Bilodeau stands with the REACH response vehicle in Timmins, ON.
