Critical Women’s Treatment Program Faces Uncertain Future as Funding Nears Expiry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Critical Women’s Treatment Program Faces Uncertain Future as Funding Nears Expiry

Toronto, ON – The Jean Tweed Centre’s Internet-Based Treatment Program (IOP), a life-changing program that has served over 700 women across Ontario, is at risk of closure as its funding is set to expire on March 31, 2025. Initially launched with support from the federal Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) grant, this proven program has delivered exceptional outcomes—yet its future hinges on securing new funding to sustain its impact.

Without renewed support, hundreds of women will lose access to gender-specific, trauma-informed care for substance use and mental health challenges, and waitlists for other treatment programs will continue to grow.

Since its inception, the IOP has transformed access to care, providing immediate, virtual, evidence-based treatment tailored to the unique needs of women. Designed to break down traditional barriers to treatment—such as childcare responsibilities, financial constraints, and geographical limitations—the IOP has helped women across 70 communities in Ontario, including rural and First Nations communities.

The IOP offers a comprehensive approach to recovery, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, peer support, trauma counseling, and continuing care services. Its flexible structure meets women wherever they are in their journey, providing an intensive three-week core treatment, ongoing stabilization, and up to two years of individual and group counseling. Through this, participants gain immediate access to care, deepen their understanding of substance use and self-compassion, and build essential coping skills, emotional regulation, and resilience.

This program has been a lifeline for women who otherwise would not have been able to access treatment. Almost one in three women who participated in IOP had never received treatment before. Yet, without continued funding, these women may be left with no choice but to turn to emergency rooms, homeless shelters, or worse, placing greater strain on public systems at a higher cost.

The impact of the program speaks for itself:

• Over 700 women supported in their recovery
• 91% of participants reported an improved ability to manage life’s challenges
• 94% of participants rated the program as high quality and would recommend it
• 75% completion rate, surpassing the industry standard

To sustain this critical program beyond March 2025, the Jean Tweed Centre urgently requires $734,000 in annual funding. The Centre is calling on government partners, donors, and community stakeholders to step forward and prevent a devastating disruption in services.

“The federal SUAP grant gave us the foundation to prove what’s possible,” says Belinda Marchese, Executive Director at the Jean Tweed Centre. “Now, we need partners to help us carry this success forward—because the women we serve deserve more than a temporary solution.”

For media inquiries or to contribute to the IOP’s future, please contact:

Diane Presta, Senior Manager, Fund Development & Communications

Email: diane.presta@jeantweed.com

Belinda Marchese, Executive Director

Email: belinda.marchese@jeantweed.com