Neighbourhood Works Inc. will run an out-of-the-cold shelter for St. Stephen and a long-term homelessness hub for the community.
A release from the New Brunswick government said the space will also become a permanent shelter in the spring.
“As spring approaches, the space will serve as a long-term shelter, integrated with outreach, prevention and diversion services, while the municipal district focuses on longer-term supportive housing,” the release said.
The municipal district has been grappling with challenges related to a growing homeless population – and nearly a year ago the town declared a state of emergency to spark a response for immediate help.
Since then, the previous Progressive Conservative government tried to set up a semi-permanent shelter in the area, but was faced with considerable pushback over community safety.
It worked, at the time, with Neighbourhood Works to establish an out-of-the-cold shelter for that winter – providing the necessary funding.
“For too long, many members of our community have been struggling to find safe, stable shelter and access to basic resources like food, showers, and clean clothing,” said a release from Neighbourhood Works Inc.“These basic human needs are particularly pressing in colder months when shelter from the harsh weather is a matter of survival for those who have nowhere else to turn.”
A new out-of-the-cold shelter will be set up on 9 Main Street in December and run until April 2025. No firm date in December for opening has been set yet, according to the release.
“Everyone deserves access to warm, safe spaces,” said Social Development Minister Cindy Miles in the release. “I want to thank the service provider, Neighbourhood Works, as well as the Municipal District of St. Stephen, for continuing to work together to find solutions for those in the community who need it most.”
It will also act as a long-term homeless hub – a initiative started by the previous PC government to connect those living rough or precariously housed to access services in their communities.
“We are now able to open a dedicated space in our community, thanks to the efforts and collaboration of our provincial and municipal governments, Neighbourhood Works Inc., and other community partners,” the release said. “This resource will be a safe space, offering not only shelter but also vital resources: meals, outreach support, harm reduction supplies, showers, laundry, and more.”
The release did say it understands there are concerns and fear from the community, but encouraged people to get involved with the non-profits advisory board for discussions on how it operates.
It also said that every year, without a permanent shelter, “has forced temporary fixes that fall short of providing the dignity, safety, and support that vulnerable individuals need and deserve.”
“We know that this affects our entire community— when our neighbours suffer, our collective sense of security and compassion suffers as well,” the release said.
Mayor Allan MacEachern said in the release said it is great to see what can happen when we all work together.
“I want to thank the provincial government for their continued support, as well as the hard work and dedication of Neighbourhood Works for putting services in place for the most vulnerable in our community.”
An estimated 100 people living rough in the St. Stephen area. Anyone wishing to get involved in the initiative can email thelodge@neighbourhoodworks.org.
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