Red Deer homeless shelters are welcoming those with nowhere to go during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The former Cannery Row Bingo, which was recently turned into a daytime warming centre and overnight mat program for homeless adults, is operated by Safe Harbour Society.
The new, larger space at 5239 53rd Ave. has allowed the agency to expand its programs.
Executive director Kath Hoffman said on average, 50 to 70 people are using the overnight program for those who are intoxicated or high, and between 120 to 150 come during the day.
She said everyone is screened, and those with possible symptoms are isolated in the building. Anyone who tests positive for the virus will be found other accommodations by Alberta Health Services.
“Alberta Health Services has extra nurses coming for peak periods for shelter intake and is helping out with the screening process, which is wonderful. That’s a great partnership we’re grateful for,” Hoffman said.
Clients are also thankful.
“They’re grateful for the space. They’re grateful for the precautions we’re taking for them and our staff,” Hoffman said.
Rose Hatfield, manager of the 49th Street Youth Shelter, operated by Youth HQ, said unfortunately, some homeless youth are not taking the pandemic seriously.
“We get a lot of kids who just come in for a couple of days to rest up, and then go back and get involved in their other activities. It’s so dangerous. Some kids are still having parties,” Hatfield said.
Youth must now sign a 14-day agreement that they will remain onsite. Once youth are screened and admitted, their temperature is taken twice a day.
She said the shelter will look hard at whether to re-admit them if leaving becomes a pattern.
“If they decide to leave and go to friend’s houses, or wherever they network, it brings a risk back to them, but also back to everyone in the shelter,” Hatfield said.
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The 49th Street Youth Shelter has space and beds for seven youth, under the two-metre social distancing rules.
Hatfield said last Friday, there were four youth using the facility, but on the weekend, all but one of them left.
So far, none of the youth have needed to be quarantined. If that happens, Alberta Health Services will find them accommodations elsewhere.
She said most youth do not have a home to return to, but reuniting those who do have family remains the top priority for the shelter, and last week, three youth returned to their homes.
“That’s the best place in this scenario. It’s dire times. This is the time for families to come together and put aside some of the differences they may with their youth, because youth really need the security of a parent.”
She said an outreach worker is available for family mediation. Both parents and youth can also call the shelter’s crisis line at 403-341-3190, or text 403-358-1517. If arrangements at home break down, youth will be welcomed back at the shelter, she said.
The 49th Street Youth Shelter, located at 4633 49th St., is open 24 hours a day for youth 12 to 17 years old.
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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