Meridian centre policy

[bulldog]

Just talked to a friend who goes walking every morning at the Gale centre in Niagara Falls. Correct me if I am wrong but both places are publicly owned. Difference being we have the beloved SMG operating our centre. Not only is the concourse open for walkers at the Gale centre but once a week they open a couple of dressing room so the homeless can have a hot shower and get their clothes cleaned up. Hats off to the Gale centre and the city of Niagara Falls.

[retired/sectionJ]

Originally Posted by bulldog

Just talked to a friend who goes walking every morning at the Gale centre in Niagara Falls. Correct me if I am wrong but both places are publicly owned. Difference being we have the beloved SMG operating our centre. Not only is the concourse open for walkers at the Gale centre but once a week they open a couple of dressing room so the homeless can have a hot shower and get their clothes cleaned up. Hats off to the Gale centre and the city of Niagara Falls.

Another difference is that one has to pay to park at the Vault compared to free parking at the Gale Centre.

[the dog]

They also have free wifi at gale centre ..

[three dog night]

Also free wifi at the fourplex in St Catharines

[strohs]

Unfortunately one issue with the homeless people showering there now is that they sleep / pass out / lay down in the warm entryways to the arena... at least I’ve seen that the past two Saturday’s I’ve been there for my kids hockey ...

I feel bad for homeless people but isn’t there shelters for them to hang out at instead of squatting in an arena entryway?


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[Red]

Originally Posted by strohs

Unfortunately one issue with the homeless people showering there now is that they sleep / pass out / lay down in the warm entryways to the arena... at least I’ve seen that the past two Saturday’s I’ve been there for my kids hockey ...

I feel bad for homeless people but isn’t there shelters for them to hang out at instead of squatting in an arena entryway?


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The idea to provide basic human services to the homeless is a good one and extremely necessary. I don't agree with it being at a recreation centre where children will be present, but if the other alternative was to ignore the issue then it is better than nothing.

Our social services for homelessness, mental health, addiction, youth in crisis and the elderly are sadly lacking in Niagara.

[bulldog]

My original point was supposed to be , if they can open the Gale centre up for so many things then why is the Meridian locked up like Fort Knox ? I do agree that an entertainment complex is not the ideal place to look after our homeless.

[retired/sectionJ]

Originally Posted by bulldog

My original point was supposed to be , if they can open the Gale centre up for so many things then why is the Meridian locked up like Fort Knox ? I do agree that an entertainment complex is not the ideal place to look after our homeless.

I agree with you Bulldog 200% right from the beginning. I wonder who has the joint like Fort Knox. The City owes the venue. SMG as it is no longer called that since the merger, runs the building.
Would it be City or SMG policy?
Thanks

[three dog night]

Originally Posted by bulldog

My original point was supposed to be , if they can open the Gale centre up for so many things then why is the Meridian locked up like Fort Knox ? I do agree that an entertainment complex is not the ideal place to look after our homeless.

Big difference between the two facilities the city of St Catharines can use the four plex for the homeless to have a shower in if they want but isn’t there shelters they can go to .

[bulldog]

Originally Posted by three dog night

Big difference between the two facilities the city of St Catharines can use the four plex for the homeless to have a shower in if they want but isn’t there shelters they can go to .

You are missing the point again, it is not about the homeless.