Homeless Encampment in front of Kam River Heritage Park - (Screen Capture/Google Maps)
Thunder Bay’s city council is set to receive a new recommendation for a location for the Temporary Shelter Village Initiative.
City administration is recommending that Kam River Park be selected as the host site at Monday night’s city council meeting.
The proposed village, once complete, will offer up to 80 heated, powered, and lockable units, along with shared washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and 24/7 staffing and security.
On-site supports would include access to health care, housing navigation, and social services.
The village will be temporary, and it is seen as an interim solution that bridges the gap for the unhoused while permanent supportive housing is developed.
“The Temporary Shelter Village will provide a safer, healthier alternative to unmanaged encampments. It will give people access to support services, help prevent injuries and deaths, and support better long-term housing outcomes,” said Encampment Response Lead, Rilee Willianen. “It’s a practical step that can improve conditions for the whole community.”
The project is being supported by $2.8 million in external funding.
The recommendation aligns with the City’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan and supports several key objectives, including advancing Truth and Reconciliation, reducing Indigenous homelessness by 50 per cent by 2027, improving neighbourhood design, and promoting inclusive access to services.
Encampments in Thunder Bay have steadily increased since 2020, underscoring the urgent need for structured, compassionate responses.
Council previously voted in favour of a wooded area beside the Salvation Army Journey For Life Centre at the April 7 Committee of the Whole Meeting.
At the April 14 meeting council opted to reverse course, leading to the new suggestion coming to council on Monday.
The Kam River Park location would’ve been near the top of the list from administration, but it was not initially proposed, due to the higher cost compared to other locations.
