Winter has hit the Avalon with a vengeance. For some of us, it means too much snow to shovel, or slippery sidewalks—but for others who struggle to find a place to lay their head at night, it is much more than an inconvenience.

Douglas Pawson is the Executive Director of End Homelessness St. John’s. He says the cold, winter weather can be a real challenge with more cold weather-related illnesses reported and higher instances of hypothermia and frostbite, posing significant challenges.

Pawson views accessibility as a major issue.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, following the big snowfall, there was a stream of people walking around downtown St. John’s. There were many accessibility challenges just trying to find places like the Gathering Place, to try and get a meal.

Pawson indicates mobility is a significant challenge for many in the city.

They’re seeing an increase in the number of people relying on shelters for extended periods of time. However, by working collectively with the community, Pawson says they’re seeing a more coordinated response to help people go from shelters into more stable and supportive housing.

As for whether it’s working, Pawson indicates it ebbs and flows.

Another challenge they face is that many people come to St. John’s from other parts of the province, because the services tend to be available in the capital city.

Pawson states that their push—moving forward—is the development of a new community plan to end homelessness in St. John’s and create a system-wide approach in response. That, he says, will ensure everyone who enters a shelter system, or who presents as homeless, will have an opportunity to find housing and stability.

Doug Pawson spoke on the VOCM Morning Show. Listen below: