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Giving back

Expanding homeless shelters during COVID-19

Jul 28, 2020

Winnipeg’s Main Street Project has been supporting the city’s homeless community with shelters and services since 1972.  COVID-19 hit, they were faced with a whole new set of challenges. Because their doors are always open and they are considered an essential service, they needed to quickly pivot to find new solutions. Since the current 2000 square foot shelter was unable to support the increased demand, the Main Street Project partnered with local businesses & community members to find additional real estate to house those in need. 

Through a grant from the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation, the Main Street Project has been able to expedite their renovation at their new Mitchell Street location. A former fabric store, the space has now been retrofitted to support 120 beds, bathroom facilities, common spaces for daytime use , and  a medical facility. With this funding – and with an all hands on deck approach – the Main Street Project was able to support more individuals in need in just a few short months, goal of eradicating homelessness as quickly as possible. 

“In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the support from the community, the Main Street Project quickly expanded operations to protect Winnipeg’s  most vulnerable and homeless population through the crisis. Because of this support, we were able to quickly accomplish amazing things” said Vince Warden, Chair of Main Street Project.

“The crisis is far from over, which is why we are extremely grateful that the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation stepped up to contribute to our COVID-emergency shelter renovation.”

The TELUS Friendly Future Foundation is proud to support the Main Street Project and help advance their mission to eradicate homelessness in our communities. By ensuring that shelters have essential amenities and services, we can help keep our communities and our most vulnerable safe during uncertain times.