A new temporary emergency shelter for men opened Friday in Halifax.
The province says the 25-bed shelter will offer a safe space and provide support for those experiencing homelessness during extreme weather.
“We know that winter is an especially difficult time for those without stable housing,” said Opportunities and Social Development Minister Scott Armstrong in a provincial news release.
“By opening this space, we are ensuring that more people have access to warmth, safety and essential support services.”
The shelter, located at St. Patrick’s Church on Brunswick Street, will reportedly stay open until at least August.
While it currently has 25 beds it has the capacity to expand to 40.
Those who use the shelter will be offered two meals each day, sleeping kits, washrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a communal space.
Souls Harbour Rescue Mission will provide staff, meals and wraparound services.
“We are committed to providing safe, dignified shelter options to those most vulnerable in our community and look forward to working alongside community partners to make that a reality,” says Cherry Laxton, the chief operating officer for Souls Harbour.
A coordinated outreach team with Shelter Nova Scotia will also work to ensure people staying in encampments are aware of the services.
The province says it is spending about $1.1 million on the shelter.
The total number of temporary beds in Halifax Regional Municipality is now up to 139, with 174 across the province.
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