Shelters are so stretched in Montreal they are offering chairs for the night
Montreal is currently facing a sharp rise in homelessness, with shelters struggling to meet the demand and keep people safe during the colder months. Some shelters are already at capacity, forcing them to make chairs available for people to stay through the night when all the beds are taken. While this provides a temporary solution, it lacks privacy and a comfortable place to sleep.
Arianne Croteau, who has been homeless for about a year, shared their experience of spending uncomfortable, mostly sleepless nights on a chair at a shelter. They mentioned that having a chair to rest on is better than freezing to death, highlighting the dire situation faced by those experiencing homelessness in Montreal.
CAP St-Barnabé, a shelter in Montreal’s east end, has made 30 chairs available for clients who need a place to stay warm when there are no beds. This initiative, described as a last resort by Jennifer Fakhouri, a coordinator at the shelter, aims to ensure that no one has to be outside on the coldest nights. However, the pressure on shelters continues to grow, with an increase in homelessness and a lack of resources to meet the growing needs.
The Quebec government recently announced $50 million in funding to address the homelessness crisis, with half of the funds allocated to Montreal. Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant emphasized the importance of increasing 24/7 shelter space and improving housing services to support those experiencing homelessness. Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante called for a quick approval of a proposal for more beds for the winter and addressing the housing shortage, given the 17,000 people on the waitlist for social housing.
In response to the crisis, the city confirmed plans to build 60 modular housing units in two locations by next spring. While this is a step in the right direction, James Hughes, president and CEO of the Old Brewery Mission, acknowledged that more resources are needed to address the extent of the challenges facing the city. He emphasized the importance of providing individuals with their own space in emergency facilities, rather than resorting to offering chairs as makeshift sleeping arrangements.
Ultimately, Montreal is grappling with a homelessness crisis that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from all levels of government. Additional funding, resources, and a clear plan to address the root causes of homelessness, such as affordable housing, are essential to support those in need and ensure their safety and well-being.
