Arson forces relocation of winter homeless shelter from River Road Golf Course
CTV
A pair of last minute setbacks will relocate and scale back London’s response to homelessness this winter.
A pair of last minute setbacks will relocate and scale back London’s response to homelessness this winter.
Moments before city council was poised to endorse the plan, Deputy City Manager of Social Health and Development Kevin Dickins, explained that a recent arson at the River Road Golf Course clubhouse requires finding a new location for the indigenous-led response.
Dickins said Atlohsa Family Healing Services has decided that the program to shelter 30 to 35 people in converted construction trailers is in search of a new location, “We respect their decision that (the golf course) no longer feels safe or welcoming.”
Councillors strongly condemned the fire.
“It has been stolen away from us, and that is reprehensible,” lamented Councillor Shawn Lewis.
Councillor Steve Lehman adding, “This is a criminal act thwarting the democratic will of council to bring shelter to those most in need.”
Dickins said talks are underway for an alternative site and he is very optimistic that a location deemed appropriate by Atlohsa will be finalized soon.
