Province commits $355K a year to homeless shelter

The province will spend $355,500 annually to help the Salvation Army operate Bedford MacDonald House, it announced Wednesdayin a written release.

The Salvation Army has operated Bedford MacDonald House for seven years, providing shelter andsupport to men experiencing homelessness in Charlottetown.

"Every Islander deserves to feel safe and secure and have a roof over their head," saidPremier Dennis King.

"Over the past number of years, we have seen an unfortunate increase in demand for shelters and we need to work with our partners, not only to address this increase, but also to understand and remove its underlying causes," King said.

The money will allow Bedford MacDonald House to provideprograms and supports for men in need of shelter in Charlottetown around the clock, the release said.

"We are pleased with the spirit of collaboration in the community and the confidence the government has in the Salvation Army to provide the support and care those experiencing homelessness need," saidMaj.Daniel Roode, of the Salvation Army.

Adding new programs

The funding will also allow for new programs focused on health, grooming, social and spiritual care, including hygiene kits andrecreational activities. The maximum length of stay will increase from seven days in a 30-day period to 21 days, the release said.

"We would not be able to increase the care provided at Bedford MacDonald House without this," Roode said.

As part of the funding agreement, the Salvation Army will also manage the temporary shelter phone line established last December and connect callers with the resources they require.

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