February CLC Meeting Summary
On February 25, 2026, we held our fourth Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meeting.
The session opened with an acknowledgement of the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and Huron-Wendat.
The CLC committee reviewed updates on the phased opening of the shelter and the community information session and tours that took place in February. CLC members requested that publicly available information on the budgeted costs to purchase and prepare the site be shared. Staff committed to reviewing this information to share with the CLC and public on the Get Involved Kingston page. The remainder of the meeting was dedicated to discussion about the phased opening, community information sessions, and next steps which are summarized below.
Discussions Summary
Shelter Operations & Phased Opening
Door of Compassion staff provided an updated on the welcoming of patrons starting February 19th:
Patrons were admitted in groups of five each day to support a smooth transition
All beds were expected to be fully occupied by the end of February.
When the initial intakes are complete, the shelter will be accepting new patrons as spaces become available, on a first come first service basis.
All patrons commit to community and shelter expectations, with weekly mandatory house meetings.
Community Relations & Neighbourhood Concerns
The committee discussed concerns raised by neighbouring residents, including:
Assumption about patrons, complaints about walking paths in the snow and concerns raised on social media.
Jaywalking on Sydenham Road
Suggested installation of a traffic light at Crossfield Avenue
Door of Compassion committed to reviewing concerns at weekly house meetings. City staff committed to forwarding the traffic light recommendation to the appropriate department for review.
Relevant Questions:
Who addresses community relations and safety?
The shelter’s Community Care team conducts proactive outreach—including patrolling the surrounding area, meeting local groups and nearby businesses and responds to concerns with a compassionate approach. Community members can also contact the Doors of Compassion team at: info.doc928@cfoc.ca or 613-483-6732
Have neighbours been notified that the Community Care Team monitors the area?
Staff emphasized that patrons are encouraged to be good neighbours and that the Shelter Community Care Team does not trespass on private property when monitoring the area. Staff wear reflective vests, shelter uniforms and badges so they can be identified by community members.
Does the shelter have a marijuana-use policy?
At CFOC-Doors of Compassion, patrons can only use medically prescribed marijuana that is dispensed from a regulated source. City staff also mentioned that policies vary based on the services offered, with some supportive and transitional housing providers having additional marijuana consumption requirements depending on the model. That would not be required at this low-barrier shelter.
Community Engagement
Since the last meeting, the shelter:
Hosted an online information session with 25 attendees
Held an open house and tour, which many CLC members found helpful, eye opening and humbling
Continues to do outreach with nearby homeowners, businesses, and nearby churches, to foster communication and identify collaboration opportunities.
Relevant Questions:
Could local organizations invite shelter patrons to community events?
Yes, shelter staff welcomes opportunities for shelter patrons to join local events. Community members suggested local programs such as paint nights or food baskets. CFOC-Doors of Compassion is open to promoting community‑based activities that help build connections.
Facility Updates
Staff shared updates on the facility itself, including the following recent improvements:
Additional Electrical outlets added for patrons
Privacy curtains added between beds and common areas.
Plans for designated bike storage.
Garden planning for the Spring
CLC members recommended that this garden pay tribute to a former garden on the property
Staff also shared that patrons have already been actively helping with shoveling and cleaning activities around the site as part of the skills building programming.
Relevant Questions:
Is the house (924 Sydenham Rd.) being used?
The room at the back of the house will be used for programming and meeting space, that has been made accessible with a ramp. The rest of the house is used for staff as it would require significant costs to make the rest of the house accessible
Where are patrons going during the day?
Most patrons have been staying at the shelter for the duration of the day where they have three meals provided, Wi-Fi and programming. Those that leave are typically travelling to appointments or other things they need to do. Patrons will not be hanging around.
Programming, Supports & Referrals
Staff provided clarification about the intake process:
Anyone may call the shelter to request a bed
Calling ahead ensures a space is available before transportation is arranged.
Staff explain the space and expectations to help callers determine suitability.
A brief pre-screen ensures eligibility before intake.
Relevant Questions:
Is programming mandatory for patrons?
Programs are voluntary, however patrons must actively work towards housing goals. Patrons meet with their Patron Relations Advocate (PRA) once a week and work towards their housing goal, and additional programing is available on site.
Patrons are provided three meals a day at the shelter and have access to WiFi, puzzles and other activities. Additional programming will roll out gradually as the shelter reaches capacity by the end of February. Staff hope to start doing staff-led walks once the weather improves.
How do shelter patrons get around?
Patrons may come and go from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The shelter is well served by nearby public transit.
Many Patrons are connected to the Municipal Fee Assistance Program for subsidized transit passes. Many residents are familiar with the transit system.
Safety, Noise & Communal Living
Staff described the amenities offered to promote privacy and dignity in the communal environment:
Privacy curtains (as mentioned in Facility updates)
Earplugs, sleep masks, and pajamas provided to every patron
Individual and group games & activities
On-site showers and laundry, which was not available at the previous shelter.
Relevant Questions:
How many patrons identify as women and do they have their own space?
Shelter demographics currently include slightly more men. A dedicated area for patrons identifying as women is maintained and may expand or adjust based on shelter need.
Volunteering and Donations
CLC members discussed how the community can support the success of the shelter and get involved.
Relevant Questions
How does one volunteer at the shelter?
The volunteer in-take process is not yet open but will launch in the coming weeks. There will be significant opportunities in the spring once outdoor programming is possible.
Can people volunteer as drivers for patrons?
The shelter does not use volunteer drivers. City staff shared that government funding has supported vehicles for local community organizations which can help with transportation. Additionally, sometimes City vehicles can be repurposed to help support community outreach services.
What can be donated?
Currently needing:
Puzzles
Books
Magazines
Community members should call ahead to arrange donation drop-offs.
Next Steps
City Staff are preparing a 6-month operations report covering emergency service calls, community concerns, validated incidents and shelter outcomes.
The next CLC meeting will occur in late March, with a meeting summary to be shared on the Get Involved Kingston Page.
