The province has unveiled a strategy to relocate individuals currently residing in a transitional housing facility in St. John’s that is slated for closure by the end of the year. Housing minister Joedy Wall assured reporters that no one would be neglected and that appropriate assistance would be provided. To achieve this goal, the province has released three requests for proposals to secure housing and community-based aid.
Earlier this year, Wall disclosed that the province would not renew the lease for Horizons at 106, a transitional housing facility managed by End Homelessness St. John’s, citing its lack of cost-effectiveness. Following this decision, Wall reaffirmed his commitment to rehousing the facility’s 59 occupants before the lease expiration on December 31.
During a recent announcement, Wall outlined a plan comprising three categories of units, each offering varying levels of support. The request for proposals seeks a provider for 75 units, including 30 “light touch” units with bi-weekly in-home support visits, 25 “moderate” units with a minimum of five weekly visits, and 20 “intensive” units staffed around the clock. These support levels were determined after consultations with each resident to address individual needs.
Wall mentioned that the total cost of all 75 units cannot be confirmed until the completion of the RFP process, emphasizing the importance of obtaining the best value for the province’s expenditure through a competitive bidding process. The deadline for proposal submissions has been set for September 14.
Meanwhile, the executive director of End Homelessness St. John’s expressed relief at receiving more information about the province’s plan but highlighted the challenges faced by residents and staff due to uncertainties surrounding the future. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of support for residents with health and accessibility requirements post-December 31, as well as the fate of the extensive waitlist for those experiencing homelessness.
NDP Leader Jim Dinn voiced apprehension about the sufficiency of support under the new plan and advocated for the expansion of non-profit community-based housing initiatives like the Ches Penney Centre of Hope. Dinn stressed the importance of providing comprehensive support to individuals to ensure their well-being, safety, housing stability, and mental health care.