Winter shelter opens in Truro amid falling temperatures, rising homelessness
Truro, N.S. has once again opened its winter homeless shelter to provide a safe haven for the town’s growing unhoused population as temperatures plummet. Funded by the provincial government and operated by the Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission, the shelter will be open seven days a week from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. until the end of April.
Known as an “emergency overflow shelter,” the facility has increased its capacity from 15 to 20 beds this year to accommodate more individuals in need. Cherry Laxton, the chief operating officer of Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission, emphasized the importance of providing a warm space for those living on the streets during the cold winter months.
Located in the bottom floor of the Connection Church on Pleasant Street, the shelter is open to individuals of all genders over the age of 18. Laxton shared that the provincial government approached them to address the shortage of permanent shelter space in Truro and Soul’s Harbour stepped up to meet the community’s needs.
In addition to the winter shelter, Soul’s Harbour also operates a drop-in center, a free store, and a soup kitchen that serves up to 100 people daily. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in the area.
Local service providers have noted an increase in people sleeping outside in Truro, with 42 individuals currently homeless and some resorting to tent encampments near Highway 102. This has raised concerns among community organizations, residents, and town officials.
Mayor Cathy Hinton expressed her commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to shelter during the cold months. The Truro Housing Outreach Society continues to reach out to individuals sleeping outside, offering referrals to the winter shelter and ensuring they receive necessary support services.
Last year, the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services allocated $159,000 to Soul’s Harbour to operate the shelter, with ongoing discussions for this winter’s funding. The organization has hired and trained eight staff members to work overnight shifts on a rotating basis, ensuring round-the-clock support for shelter residents.
As Truro faces the challenges of homelessness, the winter shelter serves as a vital resource in keeping individuals safe and warm during the harsh winter season. The community’s collaborative efforts and commitment to supporting those in need are essential in addressing the issue of homelessness in the region.
