24/7 Homelessness Services Continue to be Available at 590 Chippewa Temporarily
The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DNSSAB) confirms that 24/7 homelessness services and supports will continue at 590 Chippewa Street West, North Bay.
These services will remain in place over the summer while the low-barrier space is updated and will continue to be available on a temporary basis for the 2025/26 winter season. Services at this location, delivered by Crisis Centre North Bay (CCNB), remain focused on providing immediate, coordinated support to individuals experiencing homelessness, while longer-term solutions are explored.
Over the 2024/25 winter season, Crisis Centre has seen much success through this program, with several individuals becoming ready for transitional or permanent housing. Enhancements such as community paramedicine have contributed to increased stability and dignity for clients. “We are very pleased with the success experienced at the Cold Weather Housing Response Program,” said Sue Rinneard, Executive Director, Crisis Centre North Bay. “Success was seen in the stability the program brought to peoples’ lives, the trust that was built over the winter and the hope we now see in individuals. I am incredibly proud of our team for the work they do.” DNSSAB and CCNB continue to work with the Near North District School Board and North Bay Police Service, recognizing the importance of ongoing, productive dialogue to support safety and security for all.
These conversations have led to collaborative approaches that help address community concerns. Regular townhall meetings with clients, 24/7 on-site security, updated entryways, and improved signage are among the measures in place to address concerns and support a safe environment. Since the opening of the Cold Weather Housing Response Program at 590 Chippewa Street West, there has been a reduction in police calls and emergency service calls in 2024/2025, reflecting the positive impact of the coordinated services and enhanced supports at this location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the temporary site and services are available on the DNSSAB website at www.dnssab.ca/housing-services/homelessness.
Community members can submit feedback or suggestions for additional safety features through the feedback form linked on the FAQ page. “Our priority is to ensure individuals experiencing homelessness have access to safe, stable, and respectful support, while also listening to and working with our community partners to address concerns,” said Mark King, DNSSAB Chair. “The reduction in emergency response service calls this year demonstrates the effectiveness of our collaborative approach.”
The search for a permanent hub location remains ongoing. DNSSAB staff, in collaboration with the Crisis Centre North Bay, and the City of North Bay, have been diligently exploring locations that would be suitable for an integrated shelter and hub.
To date, 13 potential sites have been assessed; however, none have met the complex requirements necessary for a permanent facility. Factors such as appropriate zoning, building size and layout, accessibility, proximity to services, and community impact are all being carefully considered as part of this process. DNSSAB remains commited to finding a solution that balances the needs of clients, service delivery, and the community.
