The men's shelter located on Wellington St. W. in Chatham, has changed its name from New Beginning House to Chatham Hope Haven.
Wanda Bell, a public relations volunteer, says they changed the name to avoid confusion with local businesses.
"It's a great change because it shows that it's a haven," she says. "It's not going to be open 24 hours a day like the women's shelter, it is a temporary overnight emergency haven."
In addition to changing its name, Hope Haven has launched its own website, put up a new sign, and installed a new roof. However, there's still a lot of work that needs to be done before it can open up as an overnight program.
Beds at the men's shelter in Chatham. February 20, 2017. (Photo by Natalia Vega)
"We do have to raise a little bit more money and as well we need enough volunteers so that we can run a monthly schedule," she says. "We have about 30 volunteers who have been trained so far."
Bell adds they're looking for about 20 more volunteers -- specifically men.
It was hoped that the shelter would have the overnight program running by now, but due to certain fire regulations that need to be upheld, the opening date has been pushed back.
Bell says she's hoping to have night operations running within the next couple of months.
Those services are expected to run from 7pm-7am.
During an open house earlier this year, Manager Faye Wilson told BlackburnNews.com that day services are available Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's from 10am-2pm.