The agency known as Safe ‘N Sound has decided building a shelter would be too costly and instead they’re looking for more of a community drop in centre.
Program Co ordinator Jenny Wright-Elliott says they studied different models to find out which would be best for Owen Sound.
She says shelters are expensive and and they tend to force people to leave their communities to go to the larger cities for services.
Safe ‘n Sound will continue to provide motel rooms for up to 3 nights for those in need until they can access services to help them make more permanent arrangements.
Wright-Elliott says ideally they’re looking for a downtown storefront operation where those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can access basic needs…such as a community kitchen, shower facilities, storage, support and referrals.
She says they’re hoping to find a good location by the New Year.
The group has also applied for more federal funding and expects to hear something later this month.
Meanwhile Safe ‘n Sound has also re activated, for the colder months, their emergency after hours phone line where volunteers will arrange for transportation to a motel room for one to three nights.
