The Centre of Hope (COH) is on the move.
The non-profit organization announced they will move the daytime drop-in centre on Franklin Ave into the Marshall House space.
Henry Hunter, President and CEO of Wood Buffalo Housing, said the move is a win-win.
“We are very excited we could make it work. They were in need of a new building and we needed a tenant. We are thankful to the COH and the [RMWB] for working with us to get Marshal House back in service as a supportive space for the most vulnerable people in this community.”
Hunter added the WBH hopes to have the ground floor to the building ready in a few weeks time.
Rosie Keating, Executive Director for COH, said it’s a great example of the collaborative spirit that exists in Wood Buffalo.
“Centre of Hope has been a longstanding partner on the community plan to end homelessness, and we are excited for the potential that exists in this new space. As we embark on amalgamating our programs, we are eager to foster and enhance our service delivery to improve the quality of life for the individuals experiencing near or chronic homelessness.”
The Centre of Hope made a reference to its plans to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect individuals experiencing homelessness
Relocation into all three floors of Marshall House will take time, but people who may need self-isolation will find support.
In a statement posted on social media, COH said they would reserve the second and third floors for individuals in need of quarantine, and provide support.
Funding for Marshall House from the province ran out in October 2019, which meant the shelter had to close in January 2020.
