The city will discuss spending $17,000 on portable showers for houseless people in Halifax.
It’s part of a nine week pilot project aimed at helping those without a permanent place to live.
Councillor Tony Mancini put forward the motion for he staff report in hopes it might help people looking for work.
According to a staff report, the number of people sleeping rough in Halifax has more than doubled in the past year, it is estimated 400 people are homeless according to the Affordable Housing Association.
“The pandemic has exacerbated pressures on housing and shelter across HRM and led to a substantial increase in the number of individuals sleeping rough, with limited access to basic hygiene,” a section in the report reads. “Access to personal hygiene is a basic human need and an international human right.”
It’s unclear where the mobile shower unit would be set up.
“Having the opportunity to shower helps in the prevention of infectious disease, something even more essential during this pandemic. Individuals who do not have access to showers are at a higher risk for health problems. Personal hygiene practices can help prevent illness and help improve mental health.” – HRM Staff Report
Meantime, the staff report suggest looking at retrofitting of a Halifax Transit bus to make showers but it estimated the intensive design and fabrication could cost upwards of $150,000.
Other options include the potential of refining and expanding the shower program in HRM operated recreation centers as well as with partner facilities.
The Sackville Sports Stadium currently offers shower passes to those struggling with homelessness through the Sackville Area Warming Centre. Since 2015, Captain William Spry Centre and Needham Recreation Centre in Halifax have been offering access to their showers.
