When someone is in a mental health or addictions crisis, getting help quickly can make all the difference. In Windsor-Essex, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s Mental Health and Addictions Urgent Crisis Centre (MHAUCC) is helping people get that care when they need it most — day or night. Located in downtown Windsor, the centre supports individuals aged 16 and older. People can access service by walk-in at any time, call the Crisis Line at 519-973-4435, or by voluntary drop off by our EMS and policing partners.
The MHAUCC originally launched as a short-term response to those experiencing crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since evolved into a full 24/7 service as of July 2025, offering around-the-clock access to those in crisis who cannot safely wait for community supports.
Faster Access to Specialized Care
Emergency departments are often the default for people in crisis, but they are not always the best place for mental health and addictions care. When an individual arrives at the MHAUCC they are seen by a specialized team that can assess their needs and connect them to the right supports.
“Not every mental health or addictions crisis needs an emergency department,” said Kelly Mailloux, Operations Manager, MHAUCC. “This centre gives people a place to go where they can be seen and connected to the right care.”
Many clients are seen within about an hour, helping reduce stress and uncertainty during a difficult time. One of the centre's biggest strengths is its team-based model, where clients can access nursing care, social work support, addiction assessments, and psychiatry — all in one place. The recent addition of daily psychiatry coverage has made a significant impact. More people are now able to receive expert assessment and treatment without delays or repeat visits. Since onboarding of daily psychiatry in November 2025, the MHAUCC is averaging 115 psychiatry assessments per month. Prior to daily psychiatry, the MHAUCC averaged 66 per month.
“Having psychiatry available every day means we can respond right away,” said Mailloux. “People don’t have to wait for an appointment.”
This integrated approach helps connect people to ongoing community supports, improving continuity of care. Many clients return home with a plan, while others are referred to additional care based on their needs.
Reducing Pressure on Hospitals
The MHAUCC also helps ease pressure on crowded emergency departments where people often experience long wait-times for service. By redirecting people with mental health and addictions concerns to specialized care. This approach provides faster access to a range of services, including direct connections to after-care supports, while improving patient experience and continuity of care across the system.
As of March 31st, 2026, the 24/7 MHAUCC expanded model has been operational for 11 months. In these 11 months the MHAUCC has had nearly 4000 visits. The MHAUCC usage continues to trend upward, with March of 2026 being the busiest month to date. Greater than 30% of the clients have identified as using the MHAUCC as an alternative to the emergency department.
Working Together to Support the Community
The MHAUCC reflects a shared effort across organizations to improve access to mental health and addictions care in Windsor-Essex. By offering care around the clock, the centre is making it easier for people to reach out, access timely support and move forward with the care they need.