New shelter villages open in Halifax area [Video]

The Nova Scotia government has opened two new transitional housing units in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) for people experiencing homelessness.

A new shelter village located off Bancroft Lane near the Burnside Industrial Park has 45 single-occupancy units. A second shelter village, near Thomas Raddall Drive in Halifax, has 40 single-occupancy units.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Both villages opened last week with resident intake ongoing.

“Shelter villages offer a safe place to call home for Nova Scotians who are navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges,” said Scott Armstrong, minister of opportunities and social development. “They are a stepping stone toward stability, opportunity and belonging.”

Both shelters are operated by the Atlantic Community Shelters Society, which manages the sites and co-ordinates on-site wraparound services and supports.

Each unit includes a bed, desk and storage space for personal items, with access to a shared building with washroom and shower facilities. Shared laundry facilities and a full kitchen …