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Homeless Shelter Could Extend into April

Wednesday, 20 March 2013 11:17

With winter's chill still in the air, Operation Sharing may actually extend the Inn out of the Cold into April. Typically, the homeless shelter is starting to wind down, working towards closing on March 31st. But the Inn in recent days has been averaging 8 guests a night at Old St. Paul's Anglican Church. Overall, Coordinator Paul Arsenault says the Inn has seen 54 different people stay, occupying 725 beds this winter. "It's down a little bit this year. That's not necessarily a bad thing, it means we've been able to help some people find accommodations. A few of them are returning from last year. We do have some new ones and we have other transient people who are on their way through (Woodstock), onto other major centres like Kitchener or London." He also says they've also helped the homeless by referring them to other services like DASO, Homestead Christian Care and the ASH program for those with addictions. Arsenault says Homestead's plan for future affordable housing in the old Harvey Woods building would be a great development. "Not only affordable housing, but supportive housing...they help people with paying other bills like utilities, or someone who had addictions, that support system is there for them on-site." Arsenault also wanted to thank the people of Oxford County for their support with donations to keep the Inn out of the Cold operational. He also sends thanks out to Boston Pizza, Papa John's Pizza and Swiss Chalet who provide meals to those staying at the Inn 3 nights a week. They also thank Old St. Paul's Anglican Church for allowing Operation Sharing the space to operate the Inn.

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