Montreal’s mayor has issued her first official request to the incoming Parti Québécois government in efforts to tackle the escalating homelessness crisis before winter sets in. Soraya Martinez Ferrada unveiled plans to establish nine warming centers spread across seven boroughs, expanding the available emergency and transitional housing spaces to 3,000, including 500 seasonal spots set to open in November. However, to operate these centers round-the-clock, Martinez Ferrada stressed the necessity of long-term financial support from the provincial government.
During a press briefing, Martinez Ferrada emphasized the urgency of securing consistent funding to avoid annual uncertainties faced by community organizations in preparing for the winter season. The city has urged the government to commit funding for Montreal’s cold-weather initiatives over the next three years, estimating an annual requirement of approximately $20 million.
Acknowledging recent tragic incidents involving homeless individuals, Martinez Ferrada expressed concern over the worsening homelessness crisis, emphasizing the need for increased tolerance and support as the cold weather approaches. She drew hope from premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, representing a Montreal riding, and his pledge to allocate a special budget to address homelessness in the upcoming months.
St. Michael’s Mission’s executive director, Andrew Marrocco, welcomed the city’s proactive planning but voiced concerns about delayed funding for essential projects aimed at supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. He highlighted the significant gap between the services needed and the current capacity to deliver them, stressing the importance of consistent funding for sustainable solutions.
The city’s initiative includes equipping most warming centers with beds instead of chairs, aiming to provide dignified resting spaces for individuals in need. Martinez Ferrada emphasized the long-term goal of ensuring every shelter offers a bed for individuals seeking respite.
The warming centers will be strategically located across Montreal, with no additional centers in the West Island due to existing resources like Ricochet shelter, which receives increased capacity support during winter from the Quebec government. City officials remain optimistic about the government’s continued support and potential expansion of existing facilities.
Martinez Ferrada concluded the briefing by announcing plans for a transitional accommodation site to assist individuals awaiting permanent housing, with further details expected to be shared at a later date.