(File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Alison Sandstrom

COVID-19

Stepping stones shelter reopens Thursday

Dec 17, 2020 | 3:36 PM

Nearly two weeks after it closed following an outbreak of COVID-19, the YWCA’s cold weather shelter reopens Thursday.

Prince Albert YWCA CEO Donna Brooks told paNOW the shelter is an essential service to keep people safe, and it’s important it’s resuming operations.

“The Stepping Stones Shelter is a last resort for a lot of people,” Brooks said, explaining other shelters require clients to be sober or may be full.

“When it was closed, there would be individuals where there really was nowhere for them to go,” she continued. “And the only other option was for them to phone Mobile Crisis — well a lot of homeless people don’t have a phone.”

The outbreak at Stepping Stones was declared in early December after several asymptomatic individuals staying at the shelter tested positive for the virus.

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The facility already had extensive protocols in place to limit the spread of COVID-19, including daily deep cleaning, as well as temperature checks and screening questions for everyone entering. But Brooks explained additional ones have been added – like more plexiglass barriers and goggles for staff. An extra staff member is also being brought on during busy times to help people stay distanced.

“We’re doing everything possible to help ensure staff and client safety,” Brooks said.

Brooks thanked the public for their support and compassion as the YWCA dealt with the outbreak. She also expressed her gratitude to the Red Cross and P.A. Mobile Crisis who stepped up to take care of Stepping Stones’s clients while it was closed.

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alison.sandstrom@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alisandstrom