Nova Scotia is launching new measures to enhance the safety and well-being of those facing homelessness. Minister of Community Services, Trevor Boudreau, emphasized the need for safe and dignified accommodations, recognizing the complexity of homelessness and the diverse solutions required. The province is collaborating with various partners to develop supportive solutions for those at risk or experiencing homelessness.
In Halifax Regional Municipality, 28 new supportive housing units are being established for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, offering an inclusive environment with access to essential services. The North End Community Health Centre will provide round-the-clock support at these locations, including mental health and addiction counseling, employment services, and skills training. The support and services will be tailored to the residents’ needs. One building is already occupied, and another is set to open this winter. All residents are selected from the By-Name List managed by the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia.
Additionally, an emergency shelter at 197-199 Windmill Rd. in Dartmouth, opened in November, is expanding from 50 to 100 beds starting December 9. Operated by 902 Man Up, this shelter is open 24/7 and accommodates people of all genders, including youth aged 16 and above.
Outreach teams will continue informing those in encampments about these housing options. The Province is also allocating $650,000 to Shelter Nova Scotia for expanding their outreach team in HRM, aiming to coordinate services and assist people in exiting homelessness.
Further preparations are underway for the installation of shelters produced by Pallet, with site identification and infrastructure setup in progress. The Department of Community Services will provide an update early next year.
Shelter Nova Scotia and the North End Community Health Centre have expressed their commitment to supporting the homeless and housing insecure, emphasizing their evolving practices to meet societal needs and provide specialized support, particularly for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Key funding details include the Province’s Community Housing Acquisition Program (CHAP) financing the supportive housing properties, and the North End Community Health Centre receiving a $2.7-million low-interest mortgage through CHAP for property acquisition. Additionally, the Department of Community Services is providing $605,696 annually for operational funding of the two buildings.
In the last two years, Nova Scotia has created 449 new supportive housing units, comprising 73% of all units in the province. The provincial government is also allocating an additional $5 million to food banks and food security organizations.
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