What research/best practices have been considered regarding shelter management?

The decision to relocate shelter services to 310 Division Street is rooted in the need for a more suitable facility. There is an opportunity for significant modernization and enhancement of services at the new location. These service enhancements will build on recommendations from the third-party review of our local shelter system, commissioned by County in 2023.

Northumberland County is also part of multiple province-wide and Canada-wide social service networks, which regularly share best practices. These networks include:

• Ontario Municipal Social Services Association
• Built for Zero Canada
• Canadian Housing Renewal Association
• Provincial Housing Strategy Steering Committee (Senior leadership from municipal service managers with responsibility for housing)

Knowledge-sharing at tables like these continues to inform provision of housing and homelessness services in Northumberland, including the modernization of shelter services at 310 Division Street.