Ontario is contributing nearly $3 million for the establishment of safe sobering beds that would be a first in Thunder Bay, to help those under the influence of substances access support.

Sobering beds, which are available in other parts of Ontario, provide a place for people under the influence of drugs or alcohol to stay for up to 24 hours. The goal is to help them stay out of emergency rooms and jail.

There are currently no safe sobering beds in Thunder Bay. The voluntary service also allows p…