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SOS Georgina tackles homelessness

November 20, 2024

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By Angie Sullivan

Homelessness is a growing issue in our region, and SOS Georgina aims to do something about it. This non-profit provides a variety of supports to homeless individuals in our region such as food, meals, temporary shelter, personal supplies, and access to laundry and clothing.

York Region outreach workers reported visiting 37 known encampment locations in Georgina in 2023, and homelessness numbers are on the rise.

Ward 4 Councillor Dale Genge, director of the initiative, said, “There is still a severe shortage of shelter spaces and deeply affordable housing in Georgina. Shelter spaces are intended to be temporary, so residents are only allowed to stay for a certain length of time before having to leave, often with nowhere else to go. That’s why we are supportive of a tiny home community, where homeless would have a place to call their own for an extended period of time while they get their lives together.”

There are no official offices for SOS Georgina, so the group uses Black River Coffee in Sutton as a meeting place. Approximately a dozen concerned citizens are involved in raising money and brainstorming solutions.

Elaine Coates, owner of Black River Coffee, said, “We are really seeing a need for additional support for the homeless and at-risk in our community. The cost of living has increased with raises in rent and taxes. For those on a fixed income, even putting food on the table can be a challenge.”

Dale Genge holds SOS Georgina donation jars, distributed to local businesses

Genge explained how she found the initial funding by claiming her mileage expenses for her work as a councillor. “I donated that money to SOS Georgina, so our bank account started with around $3500 from me. All funding is private. We receive no support from the Town. We have had some donation jars around the community.”

SOS Georgina has so far used the money for passes to the Sutton pool to allow homeless to shower, laundry passes at Teddy’s, hotel rooms, and storage locker rental for a family who were at risk of losing all their possessions while they were in a shelter.

The group is currently operating a drive for winter jackets in conjunction with Routes at the Link and Knox United Church. Drop-offs and cash donations can also be made at Black River Coffee.