Community outreach centre supports Islanders in need
A community outreach centre in Charlottetown will help Islanders experiencing homelessness connect with the support services they need.
The centre, located at 211 Euston Street, will be open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. starting Wednesday, January 15, and offer support to people seeking financial assistance, counselling, employment, food and housing. Islanders will also be able to access a washroom, shower, laundry facilities, telephone and computer area, as well as regular programming, for those in need of these services.
“There are many community and government services available to support Islanders without permanent shelter and this centre will bring those services together under one roof to provide direct help to Islanders in need. We are working with our partners across the Island to ensure Islanders in need have warm, safe places to go both day and night, have access to support services and have help to live independently in their community.”
- Minister of Social Development and Housing Ernie Hudson
The centre will be managed by Bedford MacDonald House staff and oversight of the centre will be provided by a working group made up of government and community partners including: Department of Social Development and Housing; Health PEI Mental Health and Addictions; John Howard Society; Upper Room Food Bank; Blooming House; PEI Family Violence Prevention Services; Canadian Mental Health Association; Salvation Army; Mi’kmaq Confederacy of Prince Edward Island; and the Native Council of Prince Edward Island.
Programming will be offered by government and community partners on a regularly scheduled basis. No appointment is required and Islanders can drop in to the centre as needed. Transportation support may also be provided if required.
“Blooming House is thrilled to see this important initiative come together. We look forward to working alongside all of the groups to expand the services available for women facing homelessness,” said Blooming House co-founder Brynn Devine.
The community outreach centre will operate as a pilot project until April 1, 2020. The pilot will be monitored and evaluated by the working group to determine effectiveness and long term needs.
Media contact:
April Gallant
Department of Social Development and Housing
902-620-3409
aldgallant@gov.pe.ca