MPs say pandemic has negatively impacted residents in numerous ways.
A pair of local MPs are asking Niagara Regional Council and Chair Jim Bradley to declare a local mental health state of emergency.
In a letter, Niagara Falls MP Tony Baldinelli and Niagara West MP Dean Allison say the pandemic has had a damaging effect on local residents.
"It is apparent however that the pandemic has negatively impacted each and every resident across the region in one way or another. Illness, fatigued front line workers, unprecedented job losses and skyrocketing inflation have all taken a tremendous toll."
The MPs say declaring a mental health state of emergency for the entire region will help council address issues such as the surge in homelessness, overdoses, addiction and suicides.
Baldinelli and Allison are also calling on the government to create a three digit suicide prevention hotline.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one in five Canadians experience mental health problems.
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