BGC Prince County plans to expand its shelter services for women and children facing homelessness in Summerside. The organization currently operates LifeHouse, an emergency shelter with a capacity of four families, but it is at full capacity every night. In 2024, LifeHouse had to turn away over 80 individuals and families due to lack of space. To address this, BGC has applied to the city to rezone a property for a new building that would nearly double LifeHouse’s capacity, offering five additional bedrooms with wraparound services like case management and mental health support.
The new shelter would require minor renovations and approval from the city, with a vote expected in the coming month. The organization also operates a 10-unit transitional housing facility, which is also at capacity, and plans to open a 24-unit building later this year. Despite these efforts, there is still a critical need for more shelter services.
While there has been no opposition from neighbors, the community recognizes the devastatingly high demand for such services. LifeHouse caters specifically to families with children, making it unique among other local shelters. BGC’s outreach coordinator stressed that homelessness can affect anyone, not just those struggling with addiction, and called for more government support in housing and employment.
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