What I heard
Participants wanted dignified shelter and drop-in options for different circumstances, including women, youth and families, people needing greater safety, and people who cannot use the existing shelter system.
Why it matters
A shelter option is only useful when it is safe and appropriate for the person who needs it. Gaps can leave people outdoors or in dangerous situations while they wait for permanent housing.
What I learned...
Participants resisted treating emergency shelter as a single, uniform service. Different household, health and safety needs require different spaces and supports within a coordinated system.
