TTC helps CAMH reach significant milestone

By Hilary Caton, Communications Coordinator

When travelling to the West Queen West neighbourhood transit riders will never have to guess where to get off to reach CAMH thanks to the TTC’s recognition of the Queen Street campus.

Those seeking treatment or visiting a family member or friend at CAMH will now hear and read “CAMH” at the Queen and Ossington stop on the 63 bus route and 501 streetcar route.

“The TTC is proud to work with a wide range of community service providers throughout the city to help our riders get where they are going in comfort and with dignity. I’m pleased we are able to support CAMH with this particular initiative,” says Jaye Robinson, TTC Chair.

CAMH now joins other hospitals in the city like St. Joseph’s Health Centre and Toronto Western Hospital, as named landmarks on Toronto’s public transit network.  

The recognition is a milestone for CAMH in its work to reduce the prejudice and discrimination about mental illness and addiction.  And as two new buildings on the campus near completion, it’s another way that CAMH is preparing to help patients and family members find their way.  

“Having the TTC announce ‘CAMH’ as a location of interest at Queen and Ossington is important for a number of reasons. For people who haven’t been to our Queen Street site before, it will obviously help provide directions and wayfinding and that will be very helpful,” says Lori Spadorcia, CAMH Vice-President, Communications and Partnerships. 

“But on a broader level, it signifies an incredible shift in attitudes toward mental illness. Often, designated TTC stops include significant and important attractions and services. Having CAMH included as one of these locations of interest really helps to normalize and destigmatize mental illness. So I think it’s wonderful that the TTC has chosen to include CAMH as one of these designated locations.”

CAMH’s recent commuter survey found that 46% of staff use public transit to get to and from work. CAMH is working on a broader transportation strategy to ensure feasible and effective commuting solutions for all staff, including by working in partnership with the TTC.