Sarnia police data shows a decline in referrals made by the Integrated Mobile Police and Community Team (IMPACT) this year, while the number of contacts with people experiencing homelessness and addiction has remained consistent.
According to figures released by the Sarnia Police Service, the IMPACT team has made 124 referrals to community agencies in 2025, compared to 214 referrals in 2024. Of this year’s total, 57 referrals to other services were accepted, and 25 of 63 shelter referrals resulted in individuals taking placements.
At the same time, the number of street-level interactions remains steady. The team has recorded 1,604 encounters involving people experiencing homelessness and 1,402 involving addiction so far this year. Last year, those figures stood at 1,521 homelessness encounters and 1,228 addiction encounters.
Police report that homelessness in Sarnia has not declined but has dispersed. There are currently about 10 encampments in the city, including both active and abandoned sites. In 2024, police managed a single large encampment in Rainbow Park. Officers say this year’s sites tend to be smaller, scattered, and located in wooded areas.
The IMPACT unit, established in 2022, is made up of three constables and a sergeant who conduct patrols, distribute supplies, and connect individuals with available community services. They also work with other outreach programs, paramedics, and bylaw enforcement to monitor encampments and respond to related concerns.
While the team’s overall activity level remains similar to previous years, data from the police service shows fewer successful outcomes. The number of accepted referrals in 2025 is lower than in 2024, indicating fewer connections to housing or support programs despite continued engagement.
