Montreal Initiates Crisis Unit to Aid Homeless in Cold Weather
Montreal is gearing up to support its homeless population as winter approaches. Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada has announced the establishment of a special “crisis unit” composed of various officials and community organizations. This unit will convene weekly to address the evolving needs on the ground and ensure quick decision-making.
Comprising representatives from health and social services networks, Quebec ministries, community partners, and the City of Montreal, the crisis unit aims to collaborate closely with borough mayors. Martinez Ferrada emphasized the unit’s role in facilitating coordination and sustainable actions to respond promptly to challenges faced by the homeless population.
Furthermore, Montreal authorities are working to introduce 500 additional spaces in new warming shelters to accommodate those in need. While specific locations were not disclosed, the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud has secured funding to support these efforts, enabling community organizations to manage the sites.
As winter poses significant risks to individuals experiencing homelessness, with even moderately low temperatures leading to severe consequences, the city is ramping up its support infrastructure. Mylène Drouin, Montreal’s regional director of Public Health, highlighted the importance of increasing warming shelter capacities to address the vulnerabilities faced by the homeless population.
Keyphrase: Montreal homeless support
