Gordon Russell, Director of Shelters

As of January 2, 2019, there will be an additional 10 temporary overflow beds at Men’s Mission for 16 weeks to meet higher demand for shelter over the winter months.

These 10 temporary overflow beds are in addition to the regular 111 emergency shelter beds available year round. There are also 10 overflow beds that were already in place to meet increasing numbers of people in London requiring emergency shelter. This brings the total beds available to those in need in London through Men’s Mission to 131 beds.

Since January 1, 2019, there has been an average occupancy  of about 107%. The 10 temporary overflow beds are a new measure taken this winter after 2018 saw occupancy regularly at or over capacity.

Director of Shelters, Gordon Russell, spoke to CBC London about the increased demand at shelters.

Written by Rachel Ganzewinkel, Communications & PR Coordinator