New Glasgow town council has expressed the desire for the closure of the municipality’s sole shelter, citing concerns that it is not effectively meeting the needs of its users. Mayor Nancy Dicks emphasized the urgency for change and highlighted the necessity for a different approach during a recent interview.
Councilor Jim McKenna put forward a motion regarding the provincially funded Northstar Shelter and Support Services at a council meeting, which received unanimous approval. The motion calls for the immediate cessation of shelter operations and requests the Province of Nova Scotia to assist in developing a transition plan to support affected individuals and maintain essential services.
According to Dicks, there have been ongoing complaints about the shelter since its establishment in 2018, spanning nearly four years. The motion asserts that the shelter is falling short in addressing the fundamental health and rehabilitation requirements of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and addiction issues.
In response to the council’s motion, Northstar opted not to provide an interview but issued a written statement. The statement emphasized that a single charity cannot solve systemic issues alone and that it is imperative for all stakeholders to play their part in addressing homelessness, health, and social challenges.
Northstar highlighted that homeless shelters should not be held responsible for replacing government services or solving complex societal issues, pointing out that these responsibilities lie with the government, healthcare providers, housing agencies, and community organizations.
The shelter expressed concerns about the council’s motion, questioning the immediate impact on individuals currently relying on their services and raising inquiries about alternative shelter options, emergency capacities, and transitional arrangements.
Despite the motion’s wording suggesting an immediate closure, Mayor Dicks clarified that the council does not intend for the shelter to shut down abruptly without alternative provisions in place. She emphasized the need for the province to promptly devise a transition plan, outlining potential initiatives such as supportive housing, transitional accommodations, and rehabilitation programs.
The council has forwarded the motion to the provincial authorities and is awaiting a response. Neither the shelter nor the responsible minister has provided comments on the matter as of Tuesday.