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Shelter beds fill up at Red Deer's Mustard Seed

Winter clothing donations needed
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The Mustard Seed has 45 beds at its sober shelter. (File photo by Advocate staff)

An empty shelter bed at The Mustard Seed was difficult to find in October. 

The 45-bed sober shelter has been at capacity with the drop in temperature, and staff often had to turn people away. 

"We've been full basically for the last three weeks with the cold weather. During our drop-in hours, we've also been quite busy. A lot of community members are coming in asking for clothing, coats, hand warmers. They're even just coming in to warm up and have coffee," said shelter support worker Sean Carroll.

When there are no beds left, Mustard Seed will send people to Safe Harbour Society's shelter which is available to people who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Carroll said those who use The Mustard Seed shelter are often the same clients throughout the winter, and that means the beds are usually full.

He said drop-in hours will be extended when the temperature drops to -20 C, or whenever staff deem the weather is hazardous. 

"As long as they're on their best behaviour, and they're sober, they can stay in here as long as the drop-in is on."

He said the Mustard Seed's donation centre is low on winter jackets and other winter clothing, so donations would be greatly appreciated.

"We need the public's help around this time of the year. Donations and volunteer work is what keeps us going."



Susan Zielinski

About the Author: Susan Zielinski

Susan has been with the Red Deer Advocate since 2001. Her reporting has focused on education, social and health issues.
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