HAVE A CUP OF JOE WITH JOE – Hand In Hand Support Windsor . . . A Sober Living Home Addressing Addiction Issues
The tandem scourge of homelessness and opioid drug addiction is one of North America’s most serious social and health concerns.
According to Health Canada, between January 2016 and March 2025, there were 53,821 apparent opioid toxicity deaths and 49,445 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations. Most apparent opioid toxicity deaths, from January to March 2025, occurred among men (73%) and among individuals aged 40 to 49 years (27%).
In 2024, according to Statista.com the most opioid overdose deaths were in British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta.
The Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario states that there were 199 suspect-drug related deaths reported in September 2025 in Ontario. Over the past three months (July to September 2025), there were 605 suspect-drug related deaths.
Windsor and the Essex County region have consistently ranked among the areas in Ontario with the highest opioid overdose rates.
Combating this epidemic, the region has several non-profit and charitable organizations that support addicts in recovery. One is Hand in Hand Support, located at 3020 Sandwich Street in Windsor.
Before delving into their services, here’s a brief background on some of the impressive “DNA” of this historic property.
The Sandwich Historical Designated Conservation property, formerly the McKee House — Casa Grande, dates to 1907. It was constructed by lumber merchant and Liberal Provincial Member of Ontario’s Legislature, William McKee. When he and his wife passed away in 1929 the property was bequeathed to the nursing Sisters of St. Joseph and became a convent.
In subsequent years, it was The Basilian House of Studies, a home for men studying to become priests. Then, in 1974, it became the second home for Brentwood (known then as Charity House), a recovery home for alcoholics, before they moved in 1984 into their current location on Dougall Avenue.
In 2021 Brad Williams and Rob Sandwith were two friends who met through volunteering to help men in addiction recovery in the city.
Together they started Hand in Hand Support as a non-profit transitional sober-living residential recovery facility, accommodating 45 men seeking help in their addiction recovery.
Led by Executive President Liz Geddes and three board members, their mission is: “Bridging the gap and stigma behind Substance Abuse Disorders from a perspective of compassion and understanding, from
where we used to be to where we are now, giving hope and help to the marginalized that it is possible to live a healthy, productive life with purpose in the community.” Geddes tells us: “While I work full-time as an Account Manager at AV Gauge, I devote my free time assisting Hand in Hand Support through fundraising efforts and other initiatives.”
She has personally experienced the trauma and the devastating effects of addiction within her family, which is her motivation to do what she can for others.
Since its inception the group has seen more than 400 resident intakes, including 102 intakes so far in 2025, with a 71% recovery rate. The residents pay a moderate monthly room and board fee and work through a two phased program conducted by trained staff members, some of whom are former recovering addicts.
In Phase 1, residents are involved in a trauma focused program and entry level of understanding faith — a Higher Power as understood in 12 step programs.
In Phase 2, residents start “giving back to the community” through service opportunities within the community, such as preparing hampers for those in need, assisting with community gardens, employment
preparation, and next steps, by being reintegrated into the community.
Hand in Hand Support enjoys a partnership with the UHC — Hub of Opportunities with respect to this reintegration process.
Another key partnership is with the Leamington Community Hope Centre. Its Executive Director, Jennifer Hyde, describes the important strategic relationship they have with each other: “In partnership with Hand in Hand Support, we offer a full continuum of care. While men participate in Hand in Hand’s program, we provide wrap-around supports to strengthen their progress. As they near completion, they can transition into our men’s homes for up to one year, focusing on advanced recovery, education, job readiness, and community service. This builds a strong foundation for lasting independence.”
Successful in his recovery from addiction through Hand in Hand Support, Michael Steel is now a Staff Facilitator with them.
This is his experience: “I came to Hand in Hand Support on February 7 and hit the ground running, determined to face my trauma and other challenges head-on. From day one, I focused on my recovery and put in the extra work around the house, not only for myself but to support others on their journey.
My dedication led me to become a House Lead, and as I continued to grow, the staff noticed my commitment and leadership. During this time, I also completed my Addiction Worker course, which opened the door to an incredible opportunity to join the Hand in Hand Support Team.”
Steel continues: “Today, I’m proud to be part of the staff, facilitating meetings, visiting detox to reach others who are still struggling, and providing one-on-one support to men in the program who need it. It’s
truly a blessing to be able to give back to the place that gave me back my life — a place that not only helped me heal, but also gave me a purpose and a way to help others do the same.”
Geddes smiles when she reflects how “area volunteers and donors come out of the woodwork to assist us, and we are so grateful.”
This past Thanksgiving, a local philanthropist and community leader, Sam Sinjari, donated turkeys, food and supplies needed for a full Thanksgiving dinner, to Hand in Hand Support. (See our web story @BizXmagazine.com/sam-sinjari-donates-full-thanksgiving-dinner).
Perhaps, some of our Biz X readers might consider monetary donations during this holiday season to assist Hand in Hand Support in their important work helping addicts in recovery, a benefit to our greater
community.
To donate and help make a difference, please go online.
