Inn Out of the Cold St. Thomas-Elgin is working towards the operation of a year round homeless shelter. The Inn Out of the Cold Board announced today (Oct 3) that they are working towards expanding its operating schedule to provide a yearlong shelter service using two different methods throughout the warmer and colder months. The “warmer weather model” which will be in affect from May to October will see doors opening at 9 p.m. for overnight access only, where light snacks and breakfast the following morning at 8 a.m. will be provided. The “cold weather model” will run from November to April with access from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. with a hot dinner, breakfast, and over night shelter provided.
Executive Director of Inn Out of the Cold Lori Fitzgerald says that many of the guests they serve are very thankful for the work that they do and changes they are trying to make.
Fitzgerald says they are looking forward to the early opening date of October 22nd. Fitzgerald adds that they will be looking into donors to help fund the year round program as half year costs run upwards of $230,000. Inn Out of the Cold St. Thomas-Elgin has historically served up to 30 overnight guests and 40-70 for dinner each night during the winter months.
Inn Out of the Cold St. Thomas-Elgin is located at Central United Church on Wellington Street.
