Welland, ON – With unanimous support, Welland City Council approved $52,150 – to be funded through the operating surplus reserve fund – to offset costs incurred by Holy Trinity Anglican Church for an emergency overnight shelter offered seven days a week through February and March.

This community-led initiative is an emergency shelter, designed to supplement the existing system offered through the Niagara Region and in coordination with the City.

“Complex problems need creative solutions, and that is what is being offered by Holy Trinity,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “I am proud of our community for speaking up and stepping up, and I am proud of Council and staff for exploring the options and assisting the community on their efforts.”

In January, a notice of motion was passed directing staff to partner with local groups or agencies to open and fund a temporary, eight-bed shelter for February and March, with a budget of $35,000.

Holy Trinity Church operated the emergency shelter for two weeks in January and, upon review, indicated their interest in continuing to operate the service with the financial assistance of the City. The City will coordinate the evaluation of this initiative for the rest of the winter season and bring back recommendations and options to Council prior to the next winter season.

The funding from the City includes money for security, cleaning supplies, utilities, toiletries, and more. The shelter is hosted by Holy Trinity Church and operated by Beyond the Streets.

Due to a prior commitment, the only known date of unavailability is March 2.