Safe ‘N Sound has announced the purchase of a building in Owen Sound that will be converted into a permanent, year-round overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness in the community. The project was made possible through $500,000 in federal funding provided under the Rural and Remote stream of Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy, administered by United Way Simcoe Muskoka.
The future shelter will be located at 612 2nd Avenue East and will be dedicated to meeting overnight needs, while Safe ‘N Sound’s existing location will continue to offer daytime drop-in programming and support services. Once renovations are complete, the building will provide 26 beds and space for individuals seeking a safe and warm place to rest.
In addition to sleeping accommodations, the shelter is designed to support a collaborative approach to care. Space within the building will allow partner agencies such as Supportive Outreach Services, Brightshores, M’Wikwedong, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and others to meet with service users in the mornings, strengthening access to health, outreach, and social supports.
“This milestone was built by many people over two decades: staff, Board members, Participants, partners, and neighbours who poured their hearts into making it possible,” said Annette Pedlar, Executive Director of Safe ‘N Sound. “We are creating a place where people are received with dignity, warmth, and care. It is a proud step toward a community where everyone has a safe place to sleep. This achievement is significant, yet our work is not done. With ongoing community education, collaboration, and advocacy, we are working toward a future where every neighbour has a place to call home and support to thrive.”
While the purchase marks a major step forward, the building will require renovations before it can begin operations. An exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, though Safe ‘N Sound is optimistic the shelter will be ready to welcome guests by early 2026.
“This is a pivotal moment for our community which reflects a shared understanding that homelessness is a systems issue requiring real infrastructure and low-barrier responses rooted in dignity, equity, and care,” said Rachel Paterson, Board Chair of Safe ‘N Sound. “Guided by the voices of our Participants, our feasibility study, and aligned with provincial housing goals, we are grateful for the opportunity to create a shelter on these Lands which will offer safety, connection, and belonging. This space will serve as a long-term community hub of support and possibility for Participants, strengthening wellbeing and pathways forward for years to come.”
Safe ‘N Sound acknowledged that the project would not have been possible without strong local support. In addition to government funding, community fundraising and donations played a critical role in bridging the financial gap needed to purchase and renovate the building. Contributions from the County of Grey, Community Foundations Grey Bruce, and 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce were also instrumental in moving the project forward.
“Reaching Home provides funding to communities to deliver projects based on local priorities that achieve clear outcomes,” said Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “With this funding, Safe ’N Sound in Grey Bruce can offer vulnerable community members experiencing homelessness a warm, safe place to rest.”
Despite the progress, Safe ‘N Sound notes that ongoing community support will remain essential to sustain daily operations and vital services once the shelter opens. The organization says the new facility represents a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and compassionate Grey Bruce region, with continued collaboration needed to ensure long-term success.
