The INN continues to take shape

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This article was published 01/12/2024 (348 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Steinbach’s first homeless shelter continues to take shape. Grants are being applied for, the fundraising campaign continues to gather steam, and the organization released a rendering of the planned facility.

The INN will serve up to 30 guests at one time.

Leona Doerksen, founder and chair of The INN (Initiative for Neighbourly Nights Inc.) said the design emphasizes both curb appeal and privacy.

Housing focused recovery will allow each guest to meet their unique physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health needs.

The organization has a trauma-sensitive focus to allow their guests to have a safe space while working on recovery and permanent housing solutions.

Staff trained in addictions and community outreach will focus on the day-to-day needs of their guests and homelessness prevention.

The idea is not only to offer shelter but to reduce crime and violence.

“Persons experiencing homelessness are more likely to be victims rather than perpetrators of violence but may engage in theft or vandalism out of desperation,” the press release stated. “The INN aims to reduce neighbourhood crime by meeting guests’ basic needs and offering essential services.

With a cost of about $1.05 million, the capital fundraising campaign continues.

Doerksen said the facility, which will serve residents of southeast Manitoba represents a region of about 100,000 people.

Operational costs are expected to be about $55,000 per month, which will include two staff working around the clock.

Guests are expected to stay around six weeks, though some may be in residence up to 18 months.

Doerksen said they hope to have The INN constructed by fall of 2025.

For more information or to donate, go to steinbachinn.ca.

– with files from Svjetlana Mlinarevic