24/7 temporary emergency shelter at former Bedford Hotel opens doors

Editor’s Note: The shelter that has been opened was at the former Bedford Hotel, not the Jasper Wellness Centre.

The new 24/7 temporary emergency shelter is set to open its doors Friday.

The new shelter will have 59 private rooms fully open, before gradually increasing up to the full 209 rooms through January and February.

“Every single Edmontonian deserves access to a safe and warm space and that is exactly why this City Council prioritized funding this shelter,” said Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.

“We are grateful to Tallcree Tribal Government and Jasper Place Wellness Centre for working with us to provide Edmontonians with a safe place to stay during this winter as we continue to support individuals transitioning to long-term solutions like permanent supportive housing.”

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• Opening for temporary shelters at Bedford Hotel delayed

The centre says for now it will only be open based on referrals until more rooms open up.

Those using the facilities will be given a warm place to sleep, daily meals on top of access to health services, harm reduction support, case management support and be connected with a housing support worker who will help them find longer-term housing.

The temporary shelter is expected to remain open until May 31, 2023.