The Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters Update.
The proposal to build a community of small cabins to provide warm shelter for people living on Hamilton streets or in tents was presented last week (Feb 3/22) to the City of Hamilton’s Emergency and Community Services Committee. The initiative, which has been endorsed by our church Board, is being led by a group of people that includes Bill Johnston of our Affordable Housing Team.
The reception at the committee was mixed. A couple of councillors were enthusiastic, and several were skeptical of the need for this or of the proposed first temporary location, on the field of the closed Sir John A. Macdonald school. Staff were directed to work with HATS to prepare a report for the next committee meeting on February 17/22.
City staff, too, have concerns. There are planning rules that HATS would like simply not enforced, which appears possible. City housing staff say they want to ensure that homeless people sheltered by HATS stay connected to city initiatives to provide permanent housing with supports, which HATS fully supports.
WANT TO HELP? 
- Go to the HATS webpage to learn more. http://hats.hamiltonpoverty.ca/
- Tonight, Thursday February 10, 7 p.m., join an information meeting on the project. HATS expects some opposition. Supportive voices would be helpful. Or just listen and learn more. Register HERE
- While on the HATS webpage, you can make a donation.
- Send an email to your councillor, telling them that you support this initiative, and why you care. Please don’t accuse the city of dragging its feet. At this point, the city isn’t slowing things down. Councillors’ email addresses are their first and last name, separated by a period, as in joe.smith@hamilton.ca. The mayor’s email is mayor@hamilton.ca
The Sir John A. Macdonald site will be temporary. If you have thoughts on possible future sites, send a note to Bill Johnston at housing@uuhamilton.ca The ideal site will be in the lower city, ideally within walking distance of downtown, and with some separation from homes.
Read more about Affordable Housing.