The Region of Waterloo has set April 15 as a tentative move-in date at its first-ever hybrid indoor/outdoor shelter.
The managed encampment at 1001 Erbs Rd. is a first-of-its-kind locally, managed by The Working Centre and also offer on-site services like mental health and addiction supports aimed at connecting residents with more permanent housing.
"We're moving fully ahead," said Peter Sweeney, the region's commissioner of community services during an update to regional council on Tuesday. "We will likely have substantial completion and ownership by the end of the month [...] but it is going to take a little bit of time to get that community space set up and some other minor things."
"We're targeting April 15th as a full move-in date."
The region has said the site will include 50 individual cabins providing private, safe, and inclusive accomodation to those experiencing unsheltered homelessness. It's also said each 107 sq. ft. cabin will come furnished and with electricity, heating, and cooling. There will also be a main cabin 'complex' with amenities like running water, a common area, washrooms, and laundry.
In his update, Sweeney said The Working Centre has been working to identify those it feels would be a 'good fit' to be among the first residents. He said the region is also still working to iron out the details of move-in day itself.
"We want to be really dignity- and compassion-focused on how we actually support physically providing the opportunity for people to choose to come out and live at Erbs Rd.," Sweeney said, adding the region will also look to offer an open house of sorts for council members and the public to tour the facility before it opens.
