Editor’s note: This is the second instalment of the Gazette series on homelessness in Renfrew County.
PEMBROKE – The first story in this series looked at the new warming centre operated by the Renfrew County Mesa program in coordination with the Ontario Addictions Treatment Centre (OATC) (see our Dec. 18 edition). We also spoke with Insp. Stephan Neufeld, detachment commander with the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP, about the approach his force is taking to the issue of homelessness and how the role the new Mobile Crisis Response Team is playing.
This instalment will look at the The Grind in Pembroke and the work they are doing on the frontline to serve the homeless community, and the issue of long-term stable housing.
The Grind, created by former-OPP officer Jerry Novak; who still serves as executive director, began as an organization geared to helping people in need, particularly youth, in the community. It’s mission and breadth of operation has grown over the years as other organizations shuttered and needs of the community expanded. The location in Pembroke provides hot meals in a dine-in setting and an all-day coffee shop where people can feel safe. They do a breakfast program Monday through Friday, lunch Tuesday through Friday and have a Cordon Bleu-trained chef on staff.
“It basically started out as a coffee house for people to come in out of the cold, to have a safe place that was non-judgemental and supportive,” said manager Tina Spurrell. “We’ve grown exponentially.”
The Grind provides access to mental health supports and can connect those in the homeless community with other supports they may need, including health supports, sexual assault victim support and Ontario Works. While not a food bank, they do have a well-stocked pantry and can provide food to people on an emergency basis. There is a rack of shelves with clothing available for people to take.
The warming centre does not have showers or laundry facilities for those using the centre. The Grind has an arrangement with a local laundromat to provide vouchers so people in the homeless community can get clothes cleaned and is in the process of installing laundry facilities on site. They also have shower facilities available. A hair stylist comes to The Grind once a month to cut hair and a dental hygienist who comes regularly.
If you are already an online subscriber, CLICK HERE to access your subscription and read the full story.
If you wish to subscribe online, CLICK HERE, or you can pick up a copy of the January 8, 2025 Valley Gazette for the complete story.