With unanimous support, Welland City Council has approved $52,150 – to be funded through the operating surplus reserve fund – to offset costs incurred by Holy Trinity Anglican Church for an emergency overnight shelter offered seven days a week through February and March. The community-led initiative is designed to supplement the existing system offered through the Niagara Region and in coordination with the City. In January, a notice of motion was passed directing staff to partner with local groups or agencies to open and fund a temporary, eight-bed shelter for February and March, with a budget of $35,000. Holy Trinity Church operated the emergency shelter for two weeks in January and, upon review, indicated their interest in continuing to operate the service with the financial assistance of the City, which will coordinate the evaluation of the initiative for the rest of the winter season and bring back recommendations and options to Council prior to the next winter season. The funding from the City includes money for security, cleaning supplies, utilities, toiletries, and more. The shelter is hosted by Holy Trinity Church and operated by Beyond the Streets. Due to a prior commitment, the only known date of unavailability is March 2.