Toques from the Coldest Night of the Year walk. (Photo by Cheryl Johnstone)Toques from the Coldest Night of the Year walk. (Photo by Cheryl Johnstone)
Midwestern

United Way working with Huron County partners to eliminate homelessness

United Way Perth Huron is working with local communities to address homelessness.

Executive Director Ryan Erb said they are in discussions with government officials and service providers to make chronic homelessness a thing of the past.

The 2018 Huron Homelessness Enumeration found 100 people had experienced homelessness, but statistics show 80 per cent of homelessness is hidden.

In addition to existing resources through Huron Safe Homes for Youth and the Huron Women’s Shelter, the organization is working on a number of initiatives across Huron County.

"We’re happy to have UWPH join us in working on solutions to homelessness," says Vicky Parent, executive director of Huron Safe Homes for Youth.   "As social experts with an in-depth knowledge of this pressing local issue, they are an invaluable partner."

In Goderich, efforts are underway to provide temporary emergency shelter during the cold months.

A new housing advocate will help find housing for those in need and provide ongoing support for successful tenancy and prevention and support services for youth and women.

"We know families, youth and children are homeless - efforts are being made to improve all services, for all people," adds Erb. "No one should be without a home in Huron County. No one should have to live in a shed, on some else’s couch or out in the cold."

In South Huron, the Turning Point Home in Exeter is adding three beds.

The Coldest Night of the Year also happens on February 22 in Goderich and Exeter, along with more than 125 other communities across Canada. It's a family-friendly walk raising money to serve hungry, homeless and hurting people in the community.

Anyone interested in fundraising, or becoming a team captain, is encouraged to register on the Coldest Night of the Year website, cnoy.org/register.

Read More Local Stories