New shelter spaces help move people off the streets

Moving vulnerable people off of cold downtown streets is urgently needed as part of efforts to improve safety for all. This week’s news that 34 new shelter spaces will open in a former Victoria public-works building is a step in the right direction.

The Bridge Street Pathways Shelter, at 2920 Bridge St., is a 6,000-square-foot two-storey building on fenced property. Shelter spaces are only available if referred by outreach teams that will connect with people living outdoors on Pandora Avenue, Ellice Street and other areas downtown.

A non-profit housing association will operate the shelter 24/7, and provide on-site case management and washrooms. The shelter is funded for three years, including $6 million from the province and $700,000 from the City of Victoria.