Public Health Committee voted to look into this for next winter, saying it's needed
The Niagara region is exploring options for a seasonal winter shelter program for next winter.
The Public Health Committee noted the emergency shelter at St. George's Church this past winter demonstrated a clear demand for overnight shelter capacity.
Niagara's Advocacy Coalition's Syl Roach pointed to affordable housing. "Has not been built since 1992, and so it's going to take more than a few years to increase the housing stock. So, while we wait, we don't want to see our unhoused citizens suffer."
As with other cities, most homeless people live in downtown Niagara Falls, Welland or St. Catharines.
The Committee also heard stats that Niagara hospitals are caring for more homeless people.
Councillor Haley Bateman says she hates that they're talking about more shelters. "Unfortunately it is a necessity to keep people alive. And, I feel a great deal of shame to live in a community where so many people are unhoused."
She says she looks to the day when shelters are closed for lack of need.
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