Carmichael Outreach in search of $350,000 for overnight warming shelter

As winter temperatures continue to plummet, advocates for the homeless are pushing for the prompt establishment of an overnight warming centre at Carmichael Outreach. Tiro Mthembu from the Good Trouble Network YQR expressed his frustration outside the centre, highlighting the desperation of those surviving on the streets. Over recent weeks, several homeless individuals have lost their lives, underscoring the pressing need for this centre. Alongside providing meals, showers, and clothing, Carmichael Outreach serves impoverished and homeless individuals within the heritage neighbourhood. However, Mthembu is adamant that these services are no longer sufficient, and urges government bodies to secure funding for this project.

Mthembu emphasised the importance of valuing human life, assuring that funds are available, but the key obstacle lies in political will. Meanwhile, Tyler Gelsinger, Carmichael Outreach’s executive director, shared that the idea of providing overnight shelter has been under consideration for quite some time. If funding is obtained, an overnight warming space potentially could be launched as early as next month. The necessary funding would amount to approximately $350,000.

Gelsinger revealed that they are actively pursuing potential grants and partnerships to expedite the process. The plan can be implemented promptly once the financial resources are secured, which could involve a hiring process. The City of Regina is among the many organizations being assessed for potential financial assistance. The city has expressed its commitment to work alongside community providers to ensure a warming space is operational as quickly as feasibly possible, however, they have not confirmed whether Carmichael Outreach is a part of those plans.

When funding is available, Gelsinger expects to establish a centre that operates from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. The space would provide warmth and coffee, and would accommodate between 56 and 80 individuals, depending on space configuration. In terms of staffing, about three employees and several volunteers would be in the space.