New care beds will be created in Saint John to aid homeless patients transitioning from the hospital back into the community.

It is a partnership involving Horizon Health, Outflow Ministry, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and Canada East Spine Centre.

Outflow Ministry will develop six single-occupancy housing units uptown designed for short-term stays of four to six months.

After their treatment, patients will move to planned permanent housing or be offered support at a shelter.

Horizon said the project represents a significant step in improving health-care equity for vulnerable populations.

The health authority added it will play a crucial role in providing ongoing support and care for homeless patients by addressing the unique challenges many will experience during their recovery process.

“Through this partnership, we are not only helping to fill a significant, longstanding need in our community, but we are also promoting a more holistic approach that will help establish a more inclusive and supportive environment which will ultimately deliver better care to members of Saint John’s vulnerable population,” Margaret Melanson, Horizon president and CEO, said in a news release.

The project also aims to decrease the average length of stay for homeless patients and help free up hospital resources while reducing readmissions and improving patient outcomes.

The project will initially support 12 to 18 homeless patients annually, with plans to grow and expand with more units over time.