The provincial government has unveiled a strategy to relocate individuals currently residing in a transitional housing facility in St. John’s that is scheduled to shut down by the end of this year. Housing minister Joedy Wall assured the public that no one would be left without the necessary assistance during this transition.
To achieve this, the province has initiated three requests for proposals to secure housing and community-based support services for the affected individuals. Earlier this year, Wall had announced the decision not to renew the lease for Horizons at 106, a transitional housing facility managed by End Homelessness St. John’s, citing cost inefficiency.
Wall has reaffirmed his commitment to rehouse the 59 residents of the facility before the lease expires on December 31. The minister unveiled a plan on Friday outlining three types of units with varying levels of support, as per feedback received from individual consultations conducted by N.L. Housing Corporation staff.
The plan includes a request for a provider to offer 75 units, comprising 30 “light touch” units with minimal weekly in-home support visits, 25 “moderate” units with at least five visits per week, and 20 “intensive” units staffed around the clock. Ten residents not requiring living support have already accepted accommodations offered by NLHC.
Wall mentioned that the cost of the 75 units will be determined after the completion of the RFP process to ensure optimal financial efficiency. The deadline for proposal submissions is set for September 14.
Amidst these developments, the executive director of End Homelessness St. John’s expressed relief at the detailed plan but highlighted the challenges faced by residents and staff due to uncertainty. Concerns were raised about the future support for residents with health and accessibility needs post-December 31, as well as the fate of the over 400 individuals on the homelessness waitlist.
Additionally, NDP Leader Jim Dinn voiced apprehension about the adequacy of support under the new plan and advocated for the expansion of non-profit community-based housing to provide comprehensive assistance to vulnerable individuals.