HOMELESSNESS SUPPORT

Homelessness exists in Renfrew County, including in larger communities like Pembroke. Renfrew County isn’t unique in this respect – communities across Canada are also facing the same challenges in finding ways to assist those who, besides needing emergency shelter, often face serious mental and physical health issues, compounded by addictions.

The Grind Pembroke does not operate a homeless shelter. Homeless individuals in our community requiring assistance can access the services of MESA HART Hub’s Warming Centre (Tel: 613-281-4421).

For its part, The Grind Pembroke does what it can to help, within the mandate and resource base that constrains it. Here are a few examples of how, with the generous assistance of community members, organizations and agencies, The Grind is able to support the homeless besides food and agency referral support.

2024

• New Homeless – 19
• Tents – 19
• Motel Room – 2
• Housing Assistance – 306
• Blankets / Sleeping Bags – 222
• Shower Requests – 399
• Clothing / Footwear – 1,934
• Hygiene Kits – 734
• Gift Card / Vouchers – 310
• Transportation (taxi) – 68

2025

• New Homeless – 21
• Tents – 1
• Motel Room – 1
• Housing Assistance – 631
• Blankets / Sleeping Bags – 125
• Shower Requests – 445
• Clothing / Footwear – 1,568
• Soapy Joe’s Vouchers (laundry) – 232
• Hygiene Kits – 586
• Gift Card / Vouchers – 4
• Transportation (taxi) – 36

Transitional Housing

The Grind Pembroke, in partnership with Mental Health Services of Renfrew County, and with a generous grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health through Pembroke Regional Hospital, completed renovations of a donated two-storey house in Pembroke in May, 2020, to provide temporary housing for selected male clients of the agency.

This facility provides an assisted independent living option in a home setting for up to three residents at a time. Transition House also provides a crisis room with separate bathroom for emergency accommodations, and a self-contained caretaker’s suite. The occupancy of each client varies depending on their life circumstances –  the usual stay is up to 3-5 months duration.

While The Grind Pembroke owns and maintains the facility, Mental Health Services provides client in-take services as well as day-to-day client oversight. Generous community donations through fundraising assist with operational expenses. Clients contribute towards their own housing costs including for the purchase of food and other needed personal supplies.