Movers are busy at 307 Cedar Street, a building recently purchased by Greater Sudbury where the Homeless Network operates some services, but is in the process of moving.

The building was formerly a youth shelter which closed in 2020 and will once again offer overnight accommodation beds.

Movers are busy at 307 Cedar Street, a building recently purchased by Greater Sudbury where the Homeless Network operates some services, but is in the process of moving. (Photo from video)

“The number of people experiencing homelessness in our community is increasing,” said Gail Spencer, manager of housing stability and homelessness at the City of Greater Sudbury.

“We have over 300 people on our named list looking for a place to live…Emergency shelter beds are one way we provide support to people who are homeless and trying to find housing .”

The Elizabeth Fry Company will be the service provider. She currently operates the Safe Harbor House on Kingsmount Boulevard, providing 10 beds for women and gender diverse people.

It will move to the new location, offering 26 beds and other amenities, including a hot meal.

“Often people, especially during winter months like the one we’re experiencing now, when they arrive at 9 p.m. at night, they’re wet, they’re cold, their clothes are wet like they’ve been wearing all day ” said Cory Roslyn. , Executive Director of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northeastern Ontario.

“People need a hot shower and something warm in their belly and that’s part of what makes people feel safe and able to rest.”

Officials said the new location will also fill a void for girls ages 16 and older.

“I think young people make up a lot of the hidden homelessness in our community,” Roslyn said.

“Since the Sudbury Action Center For Youth sadly closed its doors last year, there has been no dedicated youth space.

Officials said that in the longer term, the goal is to offer transitional housing at the Cedar Street site.

In the meantime, those using the new shelter will be connected with community partners offering services to help combat the homelessness they are experiencing.

The goal is to open the doors in December.