The manager at Chatham Hope Haven says the decision made in April to temporarily reduce services was a very difficult one.
Knowing that they needed time to institute measures to keep everyone safe, prompted the Board of Directors to close the doors of the homeless men’s shelter for 40 days.
Through collaboration with the many other community partners that work with those experiencing homelessness, a need was identified for a daytime drop-in centre that would provide necessities like showers, use of the bathrooms, laundry and meals.
“Restrictions have tightened and loosened and now tightened again, but what has not changed is the need for our services for the vulnerable homeless and those living in poverty,” stated Loree Bailey, general manager, in a media release.
The shelter re-opened in June as a daytime reprieve from the elements.
“We are on top of the world to announce working relationships with the Municipality and the United Way,” Bailey added.
“This means that beginning (Monday), we will be able to open our doors every day of the week to anyone who needs our services. This is an enormous win for those experiencing poverty and homelessness in Chatham-Kent. This is a community that truly cares about you.”
For more details about Hope Haven, click here.
