Huron County, Ontario – The Out of the Cold Emergency Shelter will reopen for the 2023-24 cold weather season on November 1, 2023. This year, the shelter will move away from the overnight congregate model used in the past, towards a motel model. This new model will enable guests to have increased privacy and 24-hour access to the shelter. In addition, the shelter will extend its operating season by one month, opening on November 1, 2023, and remaining open until April 30, 2024.
“By extending both the operating season and hours of this year’s shelter, we’re ensuring that those experiencing housing instability in our community have safety, privacy, and dignity available 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Huron County Warden Glen McNeil. “This shift to increased daytime supports means that life stabilization efforts can be more effective, and individuals have a higher chance of finding success.”
Shelter guests will continue to receive wrap-around support including access to a drop-in centre, hot meals, peer support volunteers, life skills development opportunities, and more.
Those needing access to the Emergency Shelter are invited to call (519) 525-5922 between Monday to Friday, during the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to complete screening for eligibility, conduct an intake and arrange transportation, if required. Note that space is limited, and a waitlist may be held.
Those interested in supporting the Emergency Shelter are invited to make donations. Small items, such as new and unopened hygiene products, toiletries, or hats/mittens can be dropped off at the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth Addictions and Mental Health Services, located at 29 Kingston Street in Goderich. Larger items such as winter coats and clothing can be donated to the Salvation Army or Goodwill in Goderich.
The Out of the Cold Emergency Cold Weather Shelter is a partnership between the County of Huron and Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services (CMHA HP).