Emergency Out of the Cold Homeless Shelter (91.9 The Bend photo)
Moncton’s emergency homeless shelter in the former Assomption Boulevard fire hall will close its doors on April 1st.
Organizers are now trying to figure out what the next steps will be for those who don’t have a place to call home.
YMCA spokesperson Lisa Ryan says several partners involved are working on plans and are consulting with other shelters in the city.
“We’re trying to make a strategic plan so that there can be a smooth transition into expanding shelter beds at other locations. We’re also getting individuals intaked for our housing assessment review team.”
Given current market rents, Ryan says there are very few affordable apartments available in our region.
She notes rooming houses are often turning away social assistance recipients in favour of working individuals.
She adds it’s not easy for some clients to get jobs since they may be dealing with trauma or mental health issues.
During the recent cold weather, as many as 50 clients have been staying at the emergency homeless shelter each night.
