London

Second temporary winter shelter for homeless opens in downtown

A second temporary shelter to keep some Londoners without homes from sleeping outside this winter has opened on York Street.

The shelter is located on York Street and will house 30 people

This temporary homeless shelter near McMahen Park gives people a heated, private and safe space to sleep as well as a common area, washrooms and showers. (Colin Butler/CBC News)

A second temporary shelter to keep some Londoners without homes from sleeping outside this winter has opened on York Street. 

The shelter is part of the city's winter response program, which has brought together several social agencies and volunteer groups to get some of those who sleep rough on London's streets out of the cold. 

The site is located at 415 York Street, at Colborne Street, and will provide an overnight shelter and day resting space for 30 people. 

"Individuals staying at the space receive three meals daily, have access to on-site washroom and shower facilities along with supports for other basic needs. The location is staffed by outreach agencies and community partners, along with security, 24 hours, 7 days a week," the City of London said in a statement. 

The city's first temporary shelter, located on Elizabeth Street, opened on Dec. 23 and houses 32 people. 

There is also a daytime drop-in space at the Hamilton Road Seniors Centre, which serves as a coffee house and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. 

A second day resting space is expected to open within the next few weeks located in the downtown core.