December 31st, 2021
Dear Coronation Public School families,
Yesterday, we shared that the former Kinsmen Children’s Centre, located on Concession Street next to Coronation Public School, is going to be used as an Emergency Shelter System’s Quarantine and Isolation site for people experiencing homelessness in Cambridge. The site will be open as of Monday, January 10, 2022.
In the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below, I have tried to address some of the questions I have received. Please know we will ensure students and your families feel safe and secure. We are working with the Region of Waterloo and the Cambridge Shelter Corporation to provide additional information about the site, and we expect this information to be available early next week.
If you still have questions or concerns about the Isolation Site please email the Cambridge Shelter Corporation at Isolation@cambridgesheltercorp.ca.
Sincerely,
Maria Lotimer
Temporary Principal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When was this decision made?
The decision to explore the use of the former Kinsmen Children’s Centre as a quarantine and isolation site was made in early December by the Region of Waterloo and Cambridge Shelter Corporation. The site plans and approval processes were completed this week (December 27 to 31, 2021).
Is this a temporary solution, or is consideration being given to make this a permanent housing alternative for those in need?
According to the Cambridge Shelter Corporation, this is a temporary solution to support people who are experiencing homelessness and need to isolate due to a COVID-19 exposure. This site was chosen because it is an existing Regional building that can be repurposed to meet the needs of the community. This dedicated isolation location will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community.
It is anticipated that this isolation facility will be used throughout 2022 to provide temporary isolation accommodations to individuals experiencing homelessness. This timeline and use of the facility may shift as the COVID-19 pandemic changes and evolves.
What protections are being put in place to ensure separation of the isolating individuals from the greater school community?
Staffing will be on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Regional Security will be available for mobile and proactive patrols. They will also be able to respond to any calls for service.
Are there plans to engage with the surrounding neighbourhood to gather feedback and hear concerns?
The Cambridge Shelter Corporation welcomes neighbourhood residents to share their feedback or concerns by email at Isolation@cambridgesheltercorp.ca, and staff will follow up.
Will there be medical staff on-site?
Yes, there will be medical supports available for those who are isolating at the facility.
Categories: Community