By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
What a higher-barrier homeless shelter at 310 Division St,, Cobourg, might look like was the subject of a report to Northumberland County council’s Social Services Committee meeting Wednesday.
Associate Director of Housing and Homelessness Rebecca Snelgrove noted that, as of 2026, this new higher-barrier model is official and put forward a number of options for county council to consider – such as moving from 35 to 46 beds as permitted under the new fire plan that has been approved.
They have already moved to 40, the maximum allowed under current staffing ratios. Even so, Snelgrove said, they turned away 50 people in December. To move to 46 would require another staff member, making it a costly step.
In consultation with the leadership at Transition House, the organization that operates 310 Division St,, a list of key operational expectations was listed in the report.
Escalated or disruptive behaviours, as well as any signs that someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, renders the person ineligible for service.
Intake will include a bag and pocket search, as well as scans by hand-held metal detectors. Individuals found “with items that violate the rules” will be deemed ineligible for service.
Diversion conversations will take place prior to the intake process,
Within 48 hours, individuals will be assessed to determine level of acuity and support required.
Within 72 hours, individuals will meet to create a housing-focused case plan (which will necessitate two housing-focused case managers responsible for service plans).
There will be no amnesty lockers.
Intake times and curfews will be clearly stated – anyone out beyond those hours (other than for special-permission reasons such as employment) will be considered self-discharged.
Details of the plan include costs for the increased staffing and other requirements.
The committee passed a motion to refer the report to county council, with the recommendation that they approve the increase of shelter beds and begin the procurement process for shelter-delivery service at 310 Division St.
