Province adds temporary shelter beds as temperatures dip

As temperatures continue to drop well below zero in Nova Scotia, community organizations are stepping up to help more homeless individuals find shelter from the harsh winter weather. The provincial government has activated its “extreme weather protocol,” providing additional funding to shelters to increase capacity and open temporary shelters where needed.

One such emergency shelter has opened at the St. Mary’s Boat Club reception hall in south-end Halifax, with space for 30 to 40 people. This shelter will remain open until Sunday to provide a warm and safe place for those in need. Additionally, a temporary shelter has been set up in Musquodoboit Harbour to accommodate more individuals seeking refuge from the cold.

Suzanne Ley, the executive director responsible for homelessness and housing at the Department of Opportunities and Social Development, stated that there are currently 95 open shelter beds available across Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). She encourages those in need to call ahead to check availability and secure a bed.

In addition to shelters, designated encampment sites in HRM and trailers at Shubie Park provide alternative options for individuals experiencing homelessness. The municipality has provided space at the St. Mary’s Boat Club at no charge, offering essential amenities such as bathrooms, a kitchen space, and a large open room for beds. The shelter will be operated by the group 902 Man Up, with street navigators assisting individuals in accessing the shelter and providing transportation if necessary.

To further ensure the safety and well-being of those without shelter, Search and Rescue volunteers have been conducting checks on individuals sleeping rough. The provincial government urges anyone in need of emergency support, including shelter beds, to call 211 for assistance.

Various shelters across Nova Scotia are responding to the extreme weather conditions by providing additional support and resources to those in need. Here is a list of shelters in different regions:

– Halifax Regional Municipality: North Park Shelter, Halifax Forum, Windmill Road Shelter, Beacon House, St. Mary’s Boat Club
– Truro: Haven House, Souls Harbour Rescue Mission
– New Glasgow: Viola’s Place
– Annapolis Valley: Open Arms Shelter, Orchard Valley United Church
– Amherst: Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association
– Bridgewater: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Cedar Place
– Sydney: Cape Breton Community Housing Association Shelter

These shelters play a crucial role in ensuring that homeless individuals have a safe place to stay during the cold winter months. By working together, community organizations and government agencies are striving to address the urgent needs of the homeless population and provide them with the support they require to stay warm and protected.