Safe 'N Sound's pilot overnight shelter program in Owen Sound has offered a warm place to sleep for over 100 vulnerable people since November.
Fundraising and Communications Manager Sarah Laurel said the Winter Overnight Pilot Program received financial support from the County of Grey and the community to operate 24/7 until April 30.
Laurel added that extending critical services to those in need benefits the entire community.
"Everyone is really happy to be coming inside out of the cold. I think the staff are really happy to be seeing all the participants have a place to go this winter," said Laurel. "I think it has also taken some pressure off the community as well some pressure off of the emergency room and just the healthcare system in general. And I'm sure downtown businesses too, are seeing a decrease in the number of people that are sleeping around their businesses."
During the first ten weeks of the program, over 100 individuals have spent the night. aurel said they see an average of 70 community members daily who need other services like laundry, showers, clothing, transitional housing, and harm reduction programs.
"We aim to help people as best as we can we aim to meet them, essentially where they are," explained Laurel. "And however they want to be helped that is how we tried to help them."
The organization also distributes approximately 900 meals each month. Laurel said they are seeing more people who require support.
"Year over year, we've seen the need increase. It's visible to both us and the community that there is a growing amount of poverty in the area," Laurel said.
"I am extremely proud of the entire Safe ‘N Sound team. They have been working diligently to provide dignity and care towards those that need it the most,” said Executive Director Annette Pedlar. “Without such a committed team, we know some participants might not have made it through the winter and additionally there would be increased cost and pressures on other valuable community services such as the emergency room.”