Mayor Takes Responsibility for Death of Diane Hebert, Announces Winter Housing Plan

Accident – Death – Obituary News : **City of Cornwall Leases Former Long-Term Care Facility to House Winter Encampment Residents**

*Friday’s announcement follows the tragic death of a 67-year-old homeless woman at an encampment in Pointe Maligne Park*

The city of Cornwall has unveiled a new Winter Housing Plan to address the urgent need for shelter among the homeless population. The announcement comes less than a week after the sudden and heartbreaking death of a 67-year-old homeless woman, Diane Hebert, at an encampment in Pointe Maligne Park. Mayor Justin Towndale has taken full responsibility for the incident and expressed his regret that a plan to house the vulnerable population was not implemented sooner.

To provide immediate relief, the city has leased the former Parisien Manor located on Second Street East and Marlborough Street for a period of seven months. This facility will serve as a temporary home for residents living in encampments during the winter season. The Winter Housing Plan will be officially introduced in a press conference scheduled for Friday.

The city has collaborated with several local agencies to ensure that the residents receive comprehensive support. These services include addiction services, mental health supports, assistance with personal needs, and long-term housing solutions. The facility will offer up to 20 single rooms, each equipped with a bathroom and shower.

Priority for accommodation will be given to residents who are currently on the By-Name List and are experiencing homelessness. The Winter Plan initiative at Parisien Manor aims to create a safe and secure environment for the most vulnerable members of the community. It also serves as a transitional space, leading residents towards more permanent housing options, such as the Massey Place location.

In light of the ongoing pandemic, the city is requesting that residents refrain from bringing donations directly to the facility. Instead, they are encouraged to make donations to the United Way of SDG, an organization dedicated to supporting social development initiatives.

Council has also approved the purchase of Massey Place, a former school site located on Cumberland Street. This site will be retrofitted to provide additional supportive housing units, including tiny homes, and services for mental health and addiction support. These services will continue to be available even after the lease for Parisien Manor expires.

Mayor Towndale issued a heartfelt statement, expressing his remorse for the tragic loss of Diane Hebert. He acknowledged that the Winter Plan initiative requires time and careful planning, and assured the public that significant efforts were made to secure a suitable housing location. Towndale emphasized the importance of maintaining privacy until all necessary arrangements were in place.

The city had faced criticism for not implementing the plan sooner, but officials clarified that they had been actively working towards securing a housing location for several weeks. In order to ensure the safety and compliance of the building, the city had to address various life safety and operational concerns before residents could be accommodated.

A news conference is scheduled for Friday at 2 p.m. The mayor, city representatives, and the executive director of the United Way of SDG will speak about the Winter Housing Plan and provide further details on this vital initiative..