The Extended Hours Program had, on average, 10 clients per night. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Homelessness

Donations requested as Extended Hours Program ends at Scattered Site

Mar 30, 2019 | 8:00 AM

With the Extended Hours Program at Scattered Site over until November, Manager Gloria Burns is requesting donations of tents, sleeping bags and tarps for those who could now be sleeping outdoors.

“My thoughts is it’s too early to end because in April it’s still pretty cold out, especially if it rains or snows some more,” she said. “That’s a concern for us at Scattered Site and the Extended Hours Program.”

The Extended Hours Program started in the beginning of November 2018 and lasted throughout the winter until the last day of services Friday. Thursday night was the last time it was open to the public for overnight stays and Burns stated anywhere between five and 13 people used the shelter on any given night. On average, 10 people accessed the service per night.

Burns, along with three other full-time and five casual employees, were laid off as of March 29. During the last few months, she believes the program was busier than last year and said it’s due to colder weather, as well as a general increase in clients. Burns also doesn’t know where the people using the shelter are going to go, but added if the public sees them, to show them some respect.