Winnipeg, MB – Nine local agencies will offer expanded outreach and drop-in services this winter thanks to Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy. End Homelessness Winnipeg, in consultation with Service Canada and the Community Advisory Board for Reaching Home, issued a targeted call for applications last month to support community-based projects serving those experiencing homelessness in the context of COVID-19 this winter. A total of $971,576 has been awarded to the following organizations:
- 1 Just City:additional staffing and supports for Just A Warm Sleep
- Lighthouse Mission: distribution of winter gear and hygiene supplies
- Main Street Project:staffing and operation of women’s shelter and outreach
- Salvation Army:staffing for Cold Weather Outreach Van and daytime drop-in
- Spence Neighbourhood Association: expanded hours for safe rides and the WE24 safe space for youth
- Sscope:staffing and supplies to support 24/7 safe space
- Boniface Street Links:staffing for outreach and warming centres
- Sunshine House:extended drop-in hours
- West Central Women’s Resource Centre:outreach and drop-in staff
“Outreach and safe spaces are vital components of the work to prevent and end homelessness in Winnipeg,” said End Homelessness Winnipeg CEO, Lucille Bruce. “These projects will save lives by helping to protect those without a home from the compounded risks of cold illness and COVID-19 this winter.”
On September 21, the federal government announced $236.7 million in new funds for Reaching Home, to help address COVID-19 response needs for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the country this winter. In addition to the resources announced today for critical winter weather services, End Homelessness Winnipeg has issued a larger Call for Applications to help address local needs for homelessness prevention, housing and supports in the months ahead. End Homelessness Winnipeg has also released the 2020-2021 Winter Weather Response plan, which provides information on preventing, recognizing and responding to cold weather illnesses; as well as warming resources to help Winnipeggers remain safe during Manitoba winter weather in the context of COVID-19.
For more information, visit EndHomelessnessWinnipeg.CA.
