Thunder Bay, Ontario, has officially opened a long-anticipated temporary shelter village for individuals experiencing homelessness. The village, situated at 879 Alloy Place, comprises 80 sleeping cabins along with communal facilities like a kitchen, washrooms, laundry amenities, and a security office constructed by local company ModBox Modular.
Rilee Willianen, the city’s encampment response supervisor, highlighted the features of the units, stating they are climate-controlled with locking doors and can accommodate single or double occupancy. The village also includes accessible units that can be customized to meet residents’ requirements.
This initiative is part of Thunder Bay’s 10-part Enhanced Encampment Response plan, sanctioned by council members in 2024. Despite facing delays due to public opposition regarding its location, the village is now operational, with the first 40 units connected to electricity and the remaining units set to be linked in the coming weeks.
Inspired by similar projects like Peterborough’s Modular Bridge Housing Community, the village aims to provide a supportive environment for residents. Each living unit is equipped with essential amenities and LifeguardLite panels on walls that offer safety features for residents, including drug monitoring assistance.
Residents are required to engage in a support plan as they transition towards securing permanent housing, with a maximum stay of four years permitted in the village. Eligibility for residency is determined using the Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool (SPDAT) by social service agencies.
Operated by Demetrakopoulos Enterprises Inc., the village has a dedicated team of staff providing round-the-clock supervision and support services. Various on-site services are available to assist residents with daily tasks, transportation, counseling, and housing-focused support.
The province contributed $2.8 million towards the project, reducing the city’s initial capital commitment of $5 million. The village’s annual operating budget is set at $1.5 million. The gradual scaling up of the village’s occupancy is planned, with a phased approach to ensure its successful operation.
Overall, stakeholders and emergency shelter operators are optimistic about the positive impact of the temporary shelter village in Thunder Bay, anticipating relief from winter pressures. Brendan Cartlin, the executive director of Shelter House, expressed excitement about the initiative and wished the incoming residents success as they transition into the village.
