In Saint John, a new initiative will create six convalescent housing units for homeless hospital patients, thanks to a partnership between Horizon Health Network, Outflow Ministry, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, and Canada East Spine Centre. The units, set to be built in the uptown area, will provide short-term accommodation (about four to six months) for patients recovering from hospital stays before transitioning to permanent housing or a local shelter.
Ben Appleby of Outflow Ministry highlighted the strain on shelters from patients with complex health needs, stressing that such environments are unsuitable for recovery. This project addresses findings from a New Brunswick study, which revealed that 50 homeless patients made 885 emergency visits and 205 acute admissions from 2020-2023.
The new units will each feature separate entrances and are designed for single occupancy. Residents will need to meet certain conditions, including being on a housing waitlist, and will receive health and tenancy support. Horizon Health Network will conduct intake assessments to ensure eligibility.
The units will be subsidized, with tenants paying 30% of their income, and applicants must have a basic income. Construction is slated to begin in September, aiming for occupancy by year-end. Initially, the project will support 12 to 18 people, with potential for future expansion.
Read the full story with accompanying video on CBC: