Tuesday, August 29, 2023 the Nunatsiavut Government made an Immediate News Release.
The Nunatsiavut Government will operate a new Happy Valley Goose Bay Hub, and has agreed in principle to act as the operator of a new purpose built facility, a hub, to be constructed in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
“With our vast experience in administering support programs in both Nunatsiavut and Upper Lake Melville, it’s only fitting to use our expertise in managing the new Happy Valley-Goose Bay Hub,” said Johannes Lampe, President of Nunatsiavut.
NG currently operates the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Emergency shelter (Housing Hub) and the Supportive Living Program on behalf of the provincial government.
The building is open during the day to allow individuals to access laundry facilities, shower facilities and lunches when required.
It has become a communication center for those homeless in the community, and for family and service providers trying to maintain contact.
The initial location of the shelter was meant to be temporary as it was not an ideal space and was quickly outgrown.
There are currently 12 individuals at the shelter on a regular basis and approximately 20 individuals placed at the Labrador Inn (overflow).
This shelter has been recognized as the most progressive and barrier free shelter in the province.In addition to the Hub, NG operates seven supportive living units in Happy Valley-Goose Bay with 3-4 individuals in each unit supported by 24/7 staff. The program also supports seven apartments with one or two residents in each as well as drop-in supports.
There are generally spaces within the program for 31 individuals at any given time with funding provided by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation.An additional two units are operated on behalf of Labrador Grenfell Health for individuals with special needs.