Riel Lyon has been residing in a tent in Thunder Bay, Ontario, for two and a half years, with hopes of finding a more permanent living situation soon. Originally from Sioux Lookout, Lyon has been dedicating his time to volunteer work at a drop-in center in Thunder Bay while searching for an affordable place to call home. Expressing his desire for basic amenities like running water, electricity, a cooking area, and a sense of security, Lyon shared his aspirations for a tranquil living space of his own.
With the assistance of a friend attempting to secure an apartment on the opposite side of town, Lyon also mentioned the possibility of being included in the upcoming temporary shelter village set to open next month in the city. The shelter village, situated at the end of Alloy Drive by ModBox Modular, will feature 80 sleeping cabins, communal buildings with essential facilities such as a kitchen, washrooms, and laundry services for individuals facing homelessness. Additionally, the village will offer a community gathering area, offices, and on-site security measures.
The establishment of the temporary shelter village aligns with Thunder Bay’s 10-part Enhanced Encampment Response plan, which was endorsed by the city council in 2024. Despite encountering delays during the selection of a suitable location due to opposition from local residents and businesses, progress has been made on the project. In response to the declared humanitarian crisis of homelessness by the city council in February, efforts have been intensified to address the pressing issue.
Initially planned for completion by the end of June, construction delays have postponed the opening of the shelter village. Rilee Willianen, the city’s encampment response supervisor, indicated that residents are now expected to move in by September, with a phased approach to the village’s operations. The timeline for full operational capacity remains unspecified.
Operated by Demetrakopoulos Enterprises Inc., the shelter village has appointed a team of 12 individuals to manage the facility. This team includes a program manager, program supervisor, system navigators, a community support worker lead, and various support staff, focusing on outreach efforts, establishing relationships, and fostering familiarity with potential residents before offering residency in the village.
Facing challenges such as weather conditions and theft of personal belongings at his tent, Lyon shared mixed sentiments from other unhoused individuals regarding the shelter village. While some express willingness to explore the opportunity, many are hesitant due to their accustomed independence. Lyon emphasized the significance of security and readily available resources in a communal setting, highlighting the potential positive impact of transitioning to such an environment.
Shelter House, a provider of overnight shelter services in Thunder Bay, has been operating at full capacity throughout the summer, prompting the expansion of its Street Outreach Services (SOS) program in September. In a collaborative effort, staff from the shelter village have been shadowing Shelter House personnel to enhance their understanding of relationship-building and the city’s social service network, emphasizing the importance of unified support systems for individuals experiencing homelessness.
With the winter months approaching, community partners are intensifying efforts to coordinate shelter services, underscoring the necessity of wraparound services in any housing initiative to ensure sustained progress for individuals seeking stability. Brendan Carlin, executive director of Shelter House, emphasized the significance of dignified and supportive housing to facilitate long-term success for vulnerable populations.