Funding extended for Erbs Road Emergency Shelter to at least 2030

The Region of Waterloo took a step forward in its plans to end chronic homelessness on Wednesday.

The region will continue to operate the Erbs Road Emergency Shelter until at least 2030. This decision comes after a saga of back-and-forth discussions at committee meetings.

Councillors were partly at odds on the method of delivering housing to those experiencing homelessness, but the balance agreed that the shelter is a good first step.

“Things like a better tent city, and now the (Erbs Road Emergency Shelter) are certainly a much better alternative than sleeping in the rough,” said Councillor Berry Vrbanovic.

The region recently held a public meeting with residents in the areas surrounding the shelter.

They listened to concerns from the approximately 40 people who attended, and vowed to improve security and increase engagement.

“We are building as fast as we can, and also trying to do our best to get as many people inside as possible,” said Commissioner of Community Services Peter Sweeney. “There is a transition period in our view. You have to do both. We’re focusing on trying to address both ends of the spectrum.”

Councillors Jan Liggett and Natasha Salonen were not supportive of the motion.