News

Edith MacIntosh Shelter - Update - November 5, 2025

5 November 2025

Thank you to all who attended and provided feedback at the Community Meeting on Thursday, October 23, 2025. The following are updates from the meeting in response to the concerns raised:

Need for shelters and impact

The shelter is currently supporting up to 37 individuals, providing safe, temporary accommodations for people experiencing homelessness. SHIP staff work with participants to help them transition to permanent housing. Since the shelter opened, more than 80 people have moved into housing.

The shelter is a critical resource in the community, with no alternative spaces available for the people it serves.

Security cameras

There are three security cameras installed on the shelter building. Footage is accessible to the WRPS through the Region. The Region is exploring the addition of more cameras. SHIP staff are on-site 24/7.

Operations

SHIP aims for short, infrequent stays and maintains a low-barrier approach (this includes no curfew). Participants are introduced to the shelter through First Connect, a centralized service that navigates calls for anyone looking for shelter in the region. Shelter participants receive orientation on the code of conduct for the shelter upon arrival. SHIP Staff also maintain ongoing dialogue with participants to foster respect for the neighbourhood.

Community resources

There are daytime drop-in programs in the area of the shelter. Including:

There are also other drop-ins available in the community. A list is available on the Region’s website: www.regionofwaterloo.ca/shelters.

Reporting criminal activity

Criminal activity is not tolerated on or off the shelter property. If you see a crime in progress, including immediate threats to property, or a medical emergency (including suspected overdose), call 9-1-1.

If you are concerned about someone’s behaviour or well-being, but it's not an active emergency, call Waterloo Regional Police (WRPS) at: 519-570-9777 (24/7).

Individuals are encouraged to continue to report to WRPS directly. When calls are made to the police, the data is collected, and resources are allocated to the area.

Substance use and needles

Substance use is not permitted at the shelter. SHIP and the Region want to ensure that everyone is safe. Concerns about substance use on the shelter property or needles can be reported to SHIP at 548-288-4206, ext. 4040. Concerns about needles can also be reported to City of Kitchener Bylaw at (519)-741-2345 (24/7).

Ongoing communication

Thank you to everyone who attended the meeting and provided feedback. Updates about the shelter will be shared with the community and posted on the Engage WR page as new information becomes available.

Please download the contact card below for contact numbers for concerns.

Sincerely,

Region of Waterloo Housing Services

(519) 575-4400 ext. 5008

Interimhousingsolutions@regionofwaterloo.ca