Similar to most social profits in the city, the Salvation Army of Fort McMurray must deal with the province’s funding freeze on homelessness.
Major Steve Hibbs presented the organization’s plight at last night’s Council meeting.
Funding ceased after the province instructed the organization to renovate their offices to allow for 24 new beds.
The renovations forced the Salvation Army to run a deficit of $343,015.70.
Without the funds, the Salvation Army couldn’t provide staff to care for the patrons that would occupy the beds.
Mayor Don Scott tabled the motion, and said he wants to “see the work they do continue.”
“We want to make sure the Salvation Army is supported in our region. They do incredible work, and I do see it as an investment.”
Council unanimously approved Mayor Scott’s motion to allocate $195.334.23 from the Community Initiative Reserves to the Salvation Army.
The funds cover the province’s portion of the mandated renovations.
Effective until Mar. 15, 2019, Salvation Army shelters will be open for 24 hours.
The Salvation Army will be hosting a pancake dinner fundraiser on Tuesday, March 5 to raise much needed funds after they have extended their operating hours to help out with the recent cold snaps we’ve endured.
