New Hope Mission homeless shelter approved in southeast Edmonton
The Hope Mission has been looking to expand services as the need for more emergency spaces grows, and is aiming to open the permanent, 24/7 southside shelter in time for winter.
A new 120-bed homeless shelter will be opening in southeast Edmonton, following approval of a rezoning application near Argyll Road and 75 Street. The Hope Mission, a social service organization, has been seeking to expand its services as demand for shelter spaces continues to rise. The new, 24/7 facility is set to debut just in time for the winter months.
However, the proposed location in an industrial area has raised concerns among community members. Some worry about the potential for increased social disorder and crime, based on experiences in other neighborhoods of the city. Others question whether the amenities in the vicinity are adequate to support the needs of the residents.
City councillors acknowledged the worries but emphasized the importance of decentralizing social services from the inner city. They pointed out that adding overnight beds in alternative locations is one way to achieve this goal. The shelter will be situated in the Hope Mission's existing warehouse on Girard Road, which currently functions as a central hub for the organization's operations and administrative staff, as well as operating its Second Chance thrift shop.
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