Achi news desk-
A community group in Westminster, NB, says the closure of a 24-hour warming center next week will put the well-being of the entire town “at serious risk.”
The warming center’s working group says there is no permanent plan in place to tackle Westminster’s homelessness issues after the venue closes on April 30.
“This closure leaves many vulnerable individuals without shelter or shelter, and exacerbates the many challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness,” the group said in a written statement issued Thursday. “While dialogue has been ongoing, the lack of a concrete plan puts the well-being of our entire community at serious risk, leaving vulnerable individuals without essential resources and care.”
Jim Stuart, executive director of Neighborhood Works (which operates the town’s warming center), did not respond to a request for an interview Thursday.
The warming center opened at 59 Union St. in February.
In January, the province put plans to build a shelter “on hold,” following objections from some residents and businesses in the town’s Happy Valley Road area.
Social Development Minister Jill Green was not available for an interview on Thursday. A statement from the department says it is “committed to supporting transitional and public housing options for the community, and will continue on this path.”
The borough declared a local state of emergency last December following the death of 41-year-old Adam Dickerson, who was found in need of emergency medical care at a local park before dying. Dickerson had been homeless for several years.
The state of emergency was ended by the provincial government within 48 hours, with the understanding that both levels of government would work together to build a permanent shelter.
-With files from Avery MacRae CTV Atlantic
