Chatham’s newest men’s shelter is struggling to meet the need.
A special ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Monday to mark the official grand opening of Hope Haven.
Director Joe Simpson says they can only house 10 men overnight, although there are up to 60 men in Chatham-Kent who are considered homeless.
“During those cold, bitter, sub-zero nights we had well over 10 and I could take care of those men until 11pm,” Simpson says. “At 11pm when this building goes into lock-down mode, those men more than the 10, they have to go.”
Hope Haven offers a variety of services for men, women, and children during the day, including food, clothing, and counselling for those in need.
The shelter began offering emergency overnight accommodations in November.