Two more Downtown Eastside shelters go 24/7
Billy Smith, a former shelter client, now works at Vancouver Harbour Light.
The Beacon and Haven shelters are the latest in permanent year-round shelters to convert to 24 hours per day/seven days per week operations. Staying open during the daytime makes it easier for homeless people to move from shelters into supportive housing by ensuring people are there to help them. The Beacon and Haven, both of which are operated by The Salvation Army-Vancouver Harbour Light, were renovated recently and provide 100 shelter beds and a safe place for homeless men to come for a warm meal and much needed help.
"About a year ago, the Beacon was only open eight hours a night and consisted of mats on the floor," said Wayne Oster, executive director of Vancouver Harbour Light. "The Province stepped in and funded our renovations to provide more appropriate accommodations and increased staff support so that our clients can focus on getting the support they need to stabilize their lives. It has been a great success. Our clients are achieving more in terms of gaining access to treatment and housing than we ever thought possible."
Renovations to the Beacon and Haven included creating privacy partitions in sleeping areas, new bed bug resistance flooring and improved lighting. In addition, washrooms, security features, kitchens and common areas were upgraded and furnished.