It'll open next month for the homeless, some councillors wondering why not now
Welland city council has voted unanimously to spend $35,000 for an 8-bed temporary homeless shelter during February and March.
A number of councillors, though, pointed out there are people needing help now.
The city's Chief Administrative Officer Rob Axiak said it takes time to set this up. "It is a large task. We aren't resourced for staff to be doing this. So, we are now going to be looking at recreation staff, public works staff, planning staff, pulling them off regular duty."
He says they still have to find a site.
Councillor Claudette Richard said it goes beyond simple shelter.
"What we're not doing is a second step. We as a society have to do so much more, it's a continuous circle. They're coming in, I see the same people lined up, the same homeless people. But what are we actually doing for these people to get them out of that circumstance?"
Niagara Falls CAO Jason Burgess says they work closely with homeless people, knowing each one. He says many often refuse help. At last council meeting on Tuesday, while it was in session, a homeless man refused further medical help for his feet, while in the front foyer. He left without shoes.
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