Montreal opens warming centre without waiting for Quebec’s approval [Video]

At the last minute before the winter cold snap, the City of Montreal decided not to wait for Quebec’s approval to open a 30-seat drop-in centre, which cost $20,000 to bring up to safety standards.

Robert Beaudry, the executive committee member responsible for homelessness, said operating the drop-in centre could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

A few weeks ago, the city suggested to the province that two sites — including the Lucien-Saulnier building — be used for warming centres. Quebec has not yet agreed to fund this project. “We still don’t have the seal of approval, but there was no question of us waiting any longer,” said Plante.

“We have something that will provide structure, we have something that meets a need, it’s a government responsibility. The state must assume its responsibilities in this regard,” said Beaudry.

“We’re reaching out today, we’re saying, ‘Montrealers, we’re ready to make an …