Huron Out of the Cold emergency shelter extends hours amid Omicron surge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2022

SPOKESPERSON: Glen McNeil, Warden 519.524.8394 x3224 warden@huroncounty.ca 

Huron Out of the Cold emergency shelter extends hours amid Omicron surge.

Huron County, Ontario – The Huron Out of the Cold: Heart to Home emergency cold weather shelter is extending its hours. By extending shelter hours, staff are able to continue offering guests overnight accommodation, plus add a day use centre. Shelter guests also receive wrap-around supports, including meals.

“Extended shelter hours is welcome news, particularly in response to the current provincial restrictions that have required many businesses to close to the public.” said Director of Social and Property Services Barbara Hall. “Day use hours ensure washrooms and warm spaces are available to those who may otherwise be forced to face the winter elements.”

The shelter is staffed by the Heart to Home Stability Team. These individuals have been specially trained in trauma informed care, substance use, and mental health services. Since the opening of the shelter in 2020, 16 individuals have been successfully, permanently homed with assistance from the Stability Team. This Team will continue this important work in 2022.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to the staff and partners involved in this project.” said Huron County Warden Glen McNeil. “The pandemic has required all of us to shift and pivot many times, often with little or no notice. The team responsible for the Out of the Cold shelter have again worked swiftly to ensure the safety of our community. Thank you to the entire team.”

To access the Huron Out of the Cold Shelter:
Phone: 519-525-5922

Location: Lakeshore United Church, 56 North St., Goderich (Front Door Entrance)

Hours:
Monday to Friday
9:00 am to 12:00 pm OPEN for day use
12:00 pm to 2:30 pm CLOSED for cleaning purposes
2:30 pm to 5:30 pm OPEN for day use (beginning January 12)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm CLOSED for evening set up
7:00 pm to 8:00 am OPEN for overnight guests: no admission after 10:00 pm

Saturday to Sunday and Holidays
5:00 pm to 8:00 am OPEN for overnight guests: no admission after 10:00 pm

COVID-19 Screening & restrictions are in place, including mask wearing.

Huron Out of the Cold: Heart to Home is run by the County of Huron in partnership with:

• Choices for Change;
• CMHA Thames Valley Addiction & Mental Health Services;
• And Lakeshore United Church.

For more information on Huron Out of the Cold: Heart to Home and the topic of homelessness in Huron please visit www.HuronCounty.ca/housing. 

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The County of Huron asks the community to continue respecting all public health guidelines in response to COVID-19. Stay informed on the COVID-19 situation in Huron County by visiting www.HPPH.ca.