An annual provincial investment to Bedford MacDonald House will allow 24/7 accessibility to programs and supports for men in need of shelter in Charlottetown.
The Province of Prince Edward Island, through the Department of Social Development and Housing, will provide The Salvation Army $355,500 annually to help operate Bedford MacDonald House.
“Every Islander deserves to feel safe and secure and have a roof over their head,” said Premier Dennis King. “Over the past number of years, we have seen an unfortunate increase in demand for shelters and we need to work with our partners, not only to address this increase, but also to understand and remove its underlying causes.”
The Salvation Army has operated Bedford MacDonald House for seven years providing shelter, support and compassion to men experiencing homelessness in Charlottetown. This new funding will allow the shelter to continue to provide its current services and also offer support to help men successfully transition away from homelessness through coaching, social interaction, direction to practical resources, lifestyle skill development and connection to community resources.
Additionally, the funding will allow for new programs focussed on health, grooming, social and spiritual care. This will include hygiene kits, recreational activities and more. The maximum length of stay will increase from seven days in a 30-day period to 21 days.
“We are pleased with the spirit of collaboration in the community and the confidence the government has in The Salvation Army to provide the support and care those experiencing homelessness need,” says Major Daniel Roode. “We would not be able to increase the care provided at Bedford MacDonald House without this investment; we will continue to build on our relationships with partners and outside agencies to offer the supports required in this community.”
Through this funding agreement, The Salvation Army will also manage the temporary shelter phone line established last December and connect callers with the resources they require. Any Islander seeking temporary shelter can call toll-free 1-833-220-4722.
Media contact:
April Gallant, Senior Communications Officer
Social Development and Housing
902-620-3409
aldgallant@gov.pe.ca
Heather Deighan, Public Relations Associate
Salvation Army – Maritime Divisional Headquarters
Cell: (902) 818-3715
Heather_deighan@can.salvationarmy.org
Backgrounder
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. It gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and every day in 400 communities across Canada and over 130 countries around the world.
The Salvation Army offers assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation to those struggling with addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future people in your community who need it most.