
Inn out of the Cold
“They accept each other, they help each other. People want to pitch in and will set up chairs, weed the garden or offer suggestions to make the program better. The overall feeling is hope.”
Can you imagine being too afraid to answer the phone, knowing that a collection agency is looking for you? Have your children ever told you they were hungry, but there was no more dinner? Maybe you’ve given them the blanket from your bed, terrified they’ll wake up cold because the electricity has been shut off. Or worse, maybe you’re on the street, searching for a safe place to sleep.
Most of us believe our social network, education and employment will keep us safe. We can’t imagine sleeping in a stairway, park or abandoned barn.
“Things can fall apart very quickly,” says Sandra Westaway, volunteer Chair for Inn Out of the Cold, a welcome centre offering food and shelter in downtown St. Thomas from November to April. “You lose your job, become addicted or get sick. Suddenly, you’re making the choice between hydro, heat or food.”
Funded by contributions made through United Way, Inn Out of the Cold bridges the gap for over 200 people, from singles to families with kids. Some live in town, while others travel from as far away as Aylmer and West Lorne. Most still have a place to sleep but are unable to buy enough food to make it to the next paycheque.
“People are anxious to be here,” says Sandy. “It’s an open door so it’s important they get a good feeling when they come in.” Staff do everything they can to create a warm atmosphere filled with conversation and laughter. In the dining room, tables are set up in squares so families and friends can sit together. Newcomers are invited to join in. After dinner, there are board games and cards, Lego for the kids and sometimes a movie. There’s also laundry and a hot shower – things that so many of us take for granted.
For those who need a place to stay after dinner, Inn Out of the Cold can sleep up to 30 people. Often, guests are dealing with alcohol or drug addiction and mental illness. Positive interactions starting with a meal can be the first step toward turning things around.
Three experienced social workers on staff connect people to the resources they need and, ultimately, permanent housing. Close relationships with the hospital, YWCA, CMHA Elgin and the Psychiatric Survivor’s Network help make this happen.
Generous volunteers are another key to success. They coordinate clothing and furniture donations and put together move-in bins that include dishes, cutlery, bedding, pillows, and pyjamas – all the essentials for setting up a permanent home.
Sandy sees the growth in guests’ confidence as the most significant outcome. “They accept each other and they help each other. People want to pitch in and will set up chairs, weed the garden or offer suggestions to make the program better. The overall feeling is hope.”