FAQs

 

 

1. Where does the funding for this program come from, how much funding was received, and over what time period?

This program is funded by the Province of Nova Scotia through the Department of Opportunities and Social Development. A total of $221,800 has been allocated for the program, covering the period from January 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025. These funds cover rent, insurance, beds/bedding, food, laundry, Good Neighbour Program, phone line, security, and cleaning supplies. 

 

2. What are the qualifications of the staff involved, and how are staff selected and by whom? 

Staff were selected based on a combination of relevant education, sector experience, and lived expertise in homelessness or poverty. This ensures a well-rounded team with the skills and knowledge needed to provide effective support. Two weeks prior to being funded, we interviewed for a support staff /admin position. Resumes were kept on file and we then interviewed those individuals for the support positions at the Comfort Centre. Staff hold a variety of certifications and diplomas in the field and most recently have all completed training through AHANS. 

 

3. Who is eligible to use these services? Is this only for residents of Musquodoboit Harbour and the immediate surrounding area, or can individuals from anywhere access the Centre?

The Centre is designed to meet the needs of individuals currently experiencing many different crisis scenarios and requiring warmth, food and resources . We welcome those along the Eastern Shore and throughout Musquodoboit Valley , however with all emergency services, access is not restricted by location and anyone in need of a safe space and the services provided is welcome. 

We also recognize that transportation is a barrier for anyone outside of the immediate area to reach us during our hours of operation. 

 

4. How many individuals can the Centre support on a given night?

The Centre has capacity for 20 beds. Additionally, some individuals may use the facility to warm up, charge devices or access other supports without staying overnight. 

 

5. Can individuals use the facilities on a continual and ongoing basis?

Yes individuals can access the service as often as needed. While staying at the Centre, support staff actively work with each person to develop a personalized plan. Once resources have been accessed, individuals can continue to receive support. 

 

6. What security and safety protocols are in place to ensure the wellbeing of individuals requiring staff and the broader community? 

The Centre follows best practices for staffing ratios, always ensuring adequate support. Staff are trained in crisis de escalation and collaborate with community resources when necessary. 

The Centre meets all provincial standards and incorporates security measures such as cameras, incident reporting and a Good Neighbour program to foster positive relationships with the community. 

 

7. What happens to individuals who stay overnight? where do they go the next day-do they remain in the village?

Many individuals accessing the Centre already live in the community. They come because they do not have sufficient, warm housing or have limited heat sources. They come because they are fleeing domestic violence or other crises. As members of the public, they have the same rights as all residents to use public spaces. 

 

8. What prior consultation was done with local service providers(e.g law enforcement, hospitals, fire services) before funding was provided for this program?

This initiative was funded in response to an urgent and identified need, recognizing the immense and often life threatening risks faced by individuals sleeping unsheltered, particularly in cold weather or living with insufficient heat sources. We work closely with law enforcement, hospital and other services on an ongoing basis and regularly receive referrals from these partners. As the program evolves, we will continue to engage with key stakeholders to ensure effective coordination of services. 

 

9. At the July meeting regarding the use of the Old Church building for housing and shelter services, a commitment was made to consult with the community before making decisions. Why was there no community consultation before launching this program?

Given the urgent need for safe spaces identified by Old School Gathering Place and the high risk to individuals sleeping unshleted during the winter months  the staff collaborated with the province to find funding for the temporary Compost centre as timely response was necessary. 

As this was a temporary comfort centre, to meet the urgent need, a formal community consultation was not done. However, we remain committed to ongoing community engagement and collaboration to address local needs effectively. 

Our funding was confirmed just before the holidays, which also led to a scheduling issue as paperwork needed to be signed, MOUs with the parish developed, permits issued, supplies purchased and many other details. We were also learning the answers to all of our own questions and we moved through the processes. 

 

10. Why was an overnight winter shelter chosen instead of a more permanent housing solution, given that the Old School has advocated for addressing long term housing needs?

Addressing long term housing needs remains a priority. However, the current housing crisis, labour shortages, and limited affordable housing resources necessitate interim solutions. The Comfort Centre provides an immediate safety net while individualized plans are developed. We continue our ongoing work with government and community partners to explore further supportive housing opportunities that align with the long term vision for the area. The Old School works closely with AHANS and the Rural HRM Housing Network.