CLC Meeting Summary: June 3

On June 3, 2026, we held our seventh Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meeting.

The session opened with the acknowledgement of the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and Huron-Wendat.

The CLC committee heard updates from the Shelter Operator, the City of Kingston, as well as submissions from the community.

Operator Updates

• Update on housing success
  • 12 additional individuals have been housed, with a total of 88 unique individuals who have accessed the shelter since opening.

• Patron highlights:
  • Two individuals have received new employment.
  • One individual has returned to previous employment.
  • Three are maintaining existing jobs.
  • One patron continues their education online.
  • Three have received IDs.

• All individuals are living harmoniously in the space.

• Programming Updates
  • A visit from a therapy dog to the shelter, which will become regular programming of the shelter.
  • A faith-based program has begun at the shelter.
  • Offering haircuts.
  • Arts and crafts.
  • Staff also continue to work with each patron on developing life skills and working towards housing goals.

Outdoor spaces

• The outdoor space is gorgeous with 4 picnic tables for seating as well as a gazebo.
• The gardening has continued at the shelter, with many patrons participating.

The CLC had the following additional discussions:

• Members asked if the patrons had opportunities to volunteer. Staff shared that there are many opportunities to volunteer at the shelter (cleaning, sweeping and gardening, etc.), and they continue to explore additional opportunities.

• Members inquired about the status of volunteering at the Cemetery. Staff explained there are no volunteer opportunities yet but were told the Cemetery would have capacity once completed with landscaping.

• Members also noted that the “Opening Soon Sign” has caused some confusion. Shelter staff shared that they are in the process of updating this sign.

City of Kingston Updates

• A designated Drop-Off zone will be added in front of the shelter in response to safety concerns and drop-offs occurring on adjacent properties. Signage will be added, and taxi companies have been informed of the drop-off area.

• Recommendations around panhandling can be directed to Kingston Police.

• Police will be invited to the next CLC meeting to answer questions and speak to comparative data in the area.

• Staff have begun to gather quotes for security and lights for the Lions Hall. Looking to work with property managers to ensure safety standards

• City staff also shared that they are preparing to open the Shared Care Model at Queen Mary Road, which will include 30 transitional housing units for individuals who are 55+.

• Staff also shared how patrons from the shelter spoke highly of Doors of Compassion during the lived-experience focus group for the 10-year housing and homelessness plan.

Community Submissions

The CLC reviewed one community submission which pertained to evidence of a campfire and loitering.

The submission reported evidence of a campfire on private property nearby the shelter and a separate occasion where shelter patrons were loitering on Purdy’s Court. Individuals were blocking the driveway and playing loud music, causing the community members to feel intimidated. Individuals involved did move when asked.

Shelter staff explained that they responded by having conversations with patrons about trespassing, privacy, and respect. Staff continue to make expectations clear at all shelter meetings.

Members followed up by asking how staff handle situations that involve individuals who are not from the shelter. Staff explained that in the event of loitering or trespassing enforcement would be involved as a last resort.

CLC members also expressed their appreciation to the Community Care Team who are very responsive to community calls. The CLC agreed more copies of the Contact cards would be beneficial for neighbouring businesses and services.

Format, Frequency, and Duration of CLC Meetings