Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Grey County Ramps Up Short-Term Shelter For the Winter

Grey County’s short-term shelter program is transitioning into winter operations to increase capacity during the coldest months of the year.

On average, 47 motel rooms are available per night in the winter, including at the County-owned and operated former motel in Owen Sound and at other motels in Grey County. Capacity is typically increased from November 1 to March 31 but may be adjusted depending on temperatures and conditions.

“Grey County winters can be harsh, especially for those without a safe place to stay,” said Anne Marie Shaw, Director of Community Services with Grey County. “The short-term shelter program provides an important option for individuals and families who need somewhere safe, warm and welcoming to turn.”

Grey County’s short-term shelter program provides safe, dignified spaces for members of our community. Housing Case Coordinators work with participants accessing the program to connect them with services, identify housing plans, and explore options for permanent housing.

In addition to the short-term shelter program, Grey County provides support to Safe ‘N Sound Grey Bruce’s drop-in programming and the newly launched overnight shelter in Owen Sound.

More information about the short-term shelter program is available by calling 519-376-5744 or emailing stsp@grey.ca.

More information about Safe ‘N Sound can be found at https://www.safensoundgreybruce.ca/.

Quick Facts

  • In 2025 Grey County provided 9,324 nights of Short-Term Housing.
    • The program supported 366 unique adults as well as 59 youth aged 16 and younger.
    • The average length of stay in the Short-Term Housing program is 25 days.
  • Overnight operations at Safe ‘N Sound are funded by Grey County and community donations.
  • In 2025, 126 households moved from the program into self-contained accommodations at the conclusion of their stay.

 

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