Emergency resources deployed for homeless as winter sets in

With temperatures dropping, special measures for the homeless have been put in place in Montreal.

Several organizations, including the CIUSS, are coordinating efforts to meet the demand for emergency resources.

The City of Montreal has invested close to $800,000 in the winter measures, including hiring 20 outreach workers, opening a heated station and deploying a shuttle service.

CIUSSS President Sonia Belanger said she believes every effort must be made to ensure that not only are vulnerable people given a place to stay during the cold weather, but are given access to a range of resources.

This winter, the city will be home to 925 emergency shelters to accommodate homeless men, women and youth.

Within those shelters, 740 spaces are dedicated to men, part of a cooperative effort by Maison du Pere, Welcome Hall Mission, Old Brewery Mission, Quebec Aboriginal Projects and CAP St-Barnabe.

Nearly 110 spaces have been opened for women, due to collaboration between the Patricia Mackenzi Pavilion, Women’s Street, Le Chainon, Quebec Aboriginal Projects, Passages, CAP St-Barnabe, Salvation Army and Maison Marguerite.

For youth, 65 emergency shelter spaces are available at the Montreal  Youth Refuge, Bunker and Dans La Rule and En Marge 12-17.