Share Your Thoughts on a Site for a Temporary Shelter Village

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The City of Thunder Bay is developing a temporary shelter village as part of its 10-Part Community Action Plan to address unsheltered homelessness.

The temporary village will be a managed environment. It will offer 24/7 staff-supported, indoor shelter and on-site security, addressing the immediate needs of those living in encampments.

It will reduce public health and safety concerns, and support the City's efforts to manage outdoor encampments.

Following City Council’s decision on November 25, 2024 to not proceed with the proposed Miles Street site, the City is now exploring alternative locations.

When evaluating potential locations, the City will consider services nearby, access to city transit, existing encampments, construction-ready, safety, emergency access, and fit with land use. In addition to considering city-owned land, the City will consider proposals for the sale, rent or donation of private property that fits within budget.

We want to hear from YOU Thunder Bay!

As the City explores new sites, your opinion will help shape this important initiative. We invite all members of the public to share their thoughts, views, and ideas. Your input will help us make sure that this project benefits our entire community.

We want to know:

  • How do you think the project could benefit the broader community?
  • Where do you think it should be located?
  • Any other feedback?

What is the housing continuum?

The housing continuum consists of various shelter and housing options designed to meet the diverse needs of the entire population, from emergency shelters to subsidized and market-based housing. Temporary shelter villages can provide an important step in the journey out of homelessness, bridging the gap to more stable housing solutions.

  • Provides a rapid response to the encampment crisis by getting people off the streets.
  • Supports individuals in their journey toward housing stability by offering a structured, supportive environment where they can access necessary resources before moving into more appropriate housing solutions like transitional or social housing.


The City of Thunder Bay is developing a temporary shelter village as part of its 10-Part Community Action Plan to address unsheltered homelessness.

The temporary village will be a managed environment. It will offer 24/7 staff-supported, indoor shelter and on-site security, addressing the immediate needs of those living in encampments.

It will reduce public health and safety concerns, and support the City's efforts to manage outdoor encampments.

Following City Council’s decision on November 25, 2024 to not proceed with the proposed Miles Street site, the City is now exploring alternative locations.

When evaluating potential locations, the City will consider services nearby, access to city transit, existing encampments, construction-ready, safety, emergency access, and fit with land use. In addition to considering city-owned land, the City will consider proposals for the sale, rent or donation of private property that fits within budget.

We want to hear from YOU Thunder Bay!

As the City explores new sites, your opinion will help shape this important initiative. We invite all members of the public to share their thoughts, views, and ideas. Your input will help us make sure that this project benefits our entire community.

We want to know:

  • How do you think the project could benefit the broader community?
  • Where do you think it should be located?
  • Any other feedback?

What is the housing continuum?

The housing continuum consists of various shelter and housing options designed to meet the diverse needs of the entire population, from emergency shelters to subsidized and market-based housing. Temporary shelter villages can provide an important step in the journey out of homelessness, bridging the gap to more stable housing solutions.

  • Provides a rapid response to the encampment crisis by getting people off the streets.
  • Supports individuals in their journey toward housing stability by offering a structured, supportive environment where they can access necessary resources before moving into more appropriate housing solutions like transitional or social housing.


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Share your views and ideas for a temporary village site

5 days

Select a potential location for the village. We ask that you consider the following selection criteria: 

  1. Municipally Owned: Property should be municipally-owned.

  2. Proximity to Supportive Services: Sites should be near essential services, such as public transportation, healthcare, food programs, and addiction and mental health supports.

  3. Historical Encampment Areas: Sites should be near areas where people living in encampments have historically stayed.

  4. Sufficient Space: Sites should have adequate room to accommodate a minimum of 80 units, along with hygiene and laundry facilities, communal spaces, and staff offices.

  5. Readiness for Construction: Sites should require minimal preparation.

  6. Alignment with Growth Goals: Sites should not interfere with housing or commercial development plans.

  7. Safety Considerations: Sites should ensure personal safety for residents by avoiding risks such as proximity to industrial hazards or heavy traffic areas.

  8. Emergency Access: Sites should be easily accessible for emergency services like police, fire, and EMS.

  9. Active Uses: Sites should not be on property that is actively used for municipal programs or recreational activities.


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Page last updated: 03 Dec 2024, 08:46 PM