The City of Prince George will be extending its downtown washroom program after receiving a $48,000 donation from the Canadian Medical Association Foundation (CMAF).
The donation comes as apart of the “COVID-19 Community Response Fund for Vulnerable Populations”, a joint effort between CMAF and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
“These new funds will offer much-needed support to our community and will empower our municipality to help those who need it the most,” said Garth Frizzell, Prince George Councillor and FCM First Vice-President.
The closure of some civic facilities and businesses has reduced the options for marginalized individuals, especially during early morning and late evening hours.
Access to washrooms and hand washing is a high priority, as it mitigates disease transmission.
The bathrooms located in Canada Games Plaza across from the Civic Centre were opened for public use in mid-April but were slated to close on July 13th.
However, because of the CMAF funding, the facilities will remain open until the end of November.
The washrooms currently undergo daily cleanings and regular sanitization in line with Public Health recommendations.
POUNDS Project Society has partnered with the City to manage washroom access, with staff trained in crisis management.
Furthermore, overdose response and reversal aid is located on-site from 7 to 10 in the morning, and from 7:00 P.M. until midnight.
Additionally, the City offers washroom access and storage facilities for homeless people at 181 Quebec Street and 144 George Street.
The George Street location offers showers, laundry, and outreach services.