Many people seeking shelter at Windsor’s Downtown Mission during winter storm

By Prabhsimar Kaur

The Downtown Mission of Windsor estimates 50 per cent more people showed up seeking shelter during the heavy snowfall last weekend.

“We had more staff on hand to make sure we could accommodate more people than expected,” said Rukshisni Pooniah-Goulin, director of development. The Mission brought in more volunteers and shoveled pathways to ensure accessibility.

Pooniah-Goulin said mornings are usually slow but they had a “full house” during the worst of the snowfall.

Although the Downtown Mission does not take pets, it has an arrangement with the Humane Society so furry friends could also stay warm.

Pooniah-Goulin said one of the best features of the Mission is the dorms for families.

“The dorm helps us to keep the family together whether they are going through a traumatic experience,” said Pooniah-Goulin. “Whatever the case may be, they can stay together to get through it.”

The Downtown Mission is a not-for-profit organization that operates out of multiple locations in downtown Windsor.