MEDIA RELEASE
August 20, 2024
Welland, ON – Welland City Council has approved a lease agreement with Niagara Regional Housing to use City-owned land at 851 Ontario Road for a temporary emergency shelter facility. This 50-room shelter is expected to be operated by professional staff and monitored 24/7, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for those in need.
The decision to lease the land is a response to the increasing need for emergency shelter in Welland. The City, in partnership with the Niagara Region and various partners, conducted a thorough review of potential sites and identified 851 Ontario Road as the most suitable.
"We understand that housing is a fundamental need, and our community is stronger when everyone has a safe place to call home," said Mayor Frank Campion. "This temporary facility is a critical step in providing shelter and support to find permanent housing for those in need. We are committed to working with our partners to ensure everyone in Welland has the opportunity to thrive."
The facility will be staffed around the clock by trained professionals, ensuring residents receive continuous care and support. The shelter will operate with Regionally directed shelter standards and best practices, and adhere to all applicable laws, including those related to safety, health, and human rights.
The City's Affordable Housing Committee reviewed the proposal and fully supports the lease agreement. The selected site meets all required criteria, including proximity to essential amenities and access to municipal services. This location offers the most viable option for swift construction and operation.
The facility at 851 Ontario Road is expected to be constructed using modular units similar to those at an existing shelter in St. Catharines. The site will be securely fenced, and the Region of Niagara is anticipated to cover all costs associated with the shelter's construction and operation. This arrangement allows Welland to swiftly respond to the immediate need for emergency housing while planning for long-term solutions.
This temporary emergency shelter represents an opportunity to shift individuals away from encampments and toward proper shelter. The housing-focused facility is designed to provide immediate, short-term shelter while actively supporting residents in finding long-term housing solutions. Personalized case management and housing resources will be available to help residents secure housing quickly.
The lease reflects the City's commitment to addressing homelessness in partnership with the Niagara Region. The expedited approval process is expected to facilitate the shelter's timely completion and operation, directly supporting the City's Strategic Plan.
The City recognizes the value of community participation in decisions affecting its neighbourhoods. The possibility of leasing land to Niagara Regional Housing was discussed by Welland City Council during two previous public meetings. The siting of this shelter is compliant with local zoning and bylaws and does not require an additional public meeting for approval. It is important to understand that seeking further community approval for the siting of a shelter, which is otherwise already permitted under existing zoning rules, has been found to be contrary to the Ontario Human Rights Code, which seeks to prevent discrimination as to where people can live. As a result, public engagement and meetings related to the shelter's exact location were not conducted.
Rather, community engagement now will focus on connecting the neighbourhood with the shelter through education and relationship building. With a steadfast commitment to treating everyone with dignity and respect, the City in partnership with the Region, service providers, and the Niagara Regional Police, will move forward with involving the neighbourhood through open houses where ideas and concerns will be welcomed and addressed.
Approval of this lease agreement is a significant step forward in Welland's efforts to address homelessness in the community. By collaborating with Niagara Regional and other parties, the City is committed to providing essential services to its most vulnerable residents, reinforcing Welland's status as a liveable and inclusive community.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Marc MacDonald
Chief Communications & Engagement Officer
905-735-1700 x2337
