City approves $50,000 in funding for temporary shelter at Welland church

The City of Welland is offering over $50,000 in funding to a church in their community so it can continue to run a temporary emergency shelter for the rest of the winter.

The eight-bed overnight shelter is offered seven days a week and operates out of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, located at 77 Division Street.

It is run by Beyond the Streets, a volunteer-led organization that supports those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Welland.

City council passed a notice of motion last month, directing staff to partner with local groups or agencies to open a temporary shelter for February and March with a budget of $35,000.

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The church operated the emergency shelter on their own for two weeks in January before indicating they would like to continue running the shelter with assistance from the city.

“I am proud of our community for speaking up and stepping up, and I am proud of Council and staff for exploring the options and assisting the community on their efforts,” Mayor Frank Campion said.

“Complex problems need creative solutions, and that is what is being offered by Holy Trinity.”

The community-led shelter is designed to supplement the existing system offered through the Niagara Region.

Funding from the City of Welland will go towards security, cleaning supplies, utilities, toiletries and more.