Grey County is celebrating a major milestone in its efforts to support residents facing homelessness.
The county’s short-term emergency housing program at 713 9th Avenue East in Owen Sound has officially marked its first full year in operation, and the numbers reveal a significant community impact.
In the first 12 months, the site provided emergency shelter to more than 375 households, representing 480 individuals, including more than 50 children under the age of 16.
Previously relying on partnerships with local motels, Grey County purchased the former Diamond Motor Inn to offer direct, motel-style emergency housing. This model provides greater privacy and security than traditional congregate shelters, while cutting costs by about 50 per cent. The savings have enabled the county to expand its winter response services, with up to 60 emergency housing spaces available each night during the coldest months.
“Savings from the motel program have created critically needed capacity to expand our winter response,” said Randy Scherzer, Chief Administrative Officer for Grey County. “By funding overflow spaces and supporting Safe N Sound’s Out of the Cold program, Grey County was able to offer up to 60 emergency housing spaces per night during the peak winter season."
The emergency housing site also provides a range of wraparound services to help individuals and families move beyond crisis situations. Over the past year, these supports have helped 176 households transition from Grey County’s real-time homelessness list into longer-term, permanent housing.
"Everyone deserves a safe place to call home,” said Grey County Warden Andrea Matrosovs. “We know that providing stable, dignified housing is a critical first step for people experiencing homelessness. This site and the team behind it are making a tangible difference for individuals and families across our community who are facing some of their most difficult days."
Grey County plans to continue using the emergency housing site as a cornerstone of its housing and homelessness response strategy, ensuring residents in need have access to compassionate care, vital supports, and a path to permanent housing.
More details about the program and other Grey County housing services are available at www.grey.ca or by calling 1-800-567-4739.