Northumberland County’s new warming space at 310 Division Street in Cobourg opens today (November 13, 2024), offering 24/7 shelter and support to those experiencing homelessness. The space, approved under a newly granted ECE License, begin welcoming guests at 6:00 p.m. The facility provides a warm place to sleep, shower and washroom access, laundry facilities, and meals, aiming to meet immediate needs during the winter months.
Manager of Homelessness Services Bill Smith says the ground floor will be dedicated to a warming space.
“This is an important milestone in our community’s ongoing efforts to provide modernized shelter services,” said Warden Brian Ostrander. “We’re grateful for the Town of Cobourg’s efforts to help get this facility operational as winter approaches.”
According to Smith, part of the space on the ground floor will be a dedicated resource centre.
The warming space is the first phase of a larger shelter project at 310 Division Street.
Smith says it’s the first step in transforming the facility into a comprehensive shelter with emergency housing and transitional programs.
Renovations continue on the second and third floors, with 35 emergency shelter spaces expected to open by year-end, followed by transitional housing units in early 2025. These expansions will support residents on their journey to stability by offering a range of services in one location.
For Smith, a key aspect of the new facilities is that they are low barrier.
Housing Services Manager Rebecca Carman tells us she’s full of hope for the future.
Carman also said she’s thankful to all the contractors, public works staff, shelter workers and outreach staff for their hard work. She also would like to thank all those who’ve been living rough and who’ve been experiencing homelessness for their patience while they’ve worked to make 310 Division Street a reality.
The County encourages the public to stay informed as this essential service develops. For more, visit 310 Division Street: Modernizing shelter services to address community need | Join In Northumberland.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
