Rene Gauthier had a vision: a shelter for the homeless in Selkirk. As chair of Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen Inc., he never forgot the people who were, as he puts it, “cold” and “freezing”. He tried turning the sod, but he ran into opposition. Selkirk city council, as well as citizens’ groups, kept blocking his efforts. But he didn’t give up. Now, Gauthier’s vision has sprung to life. St. Francis Place Homeless Shelter opened its doors on Nov. 16. “If we save one person out there, it’s worth it,” Gauthier said. “Hopefully there’s not that many people out there. That’s the prime thing. We’ve haven’t had any people this week. I think it takes just one or two to come in and spread the word to their fellow people out there.”

Located at 202 Christie Ave., St. Francis Place features six beds, three bedrooms, and a kitchen, bathroom and shower. The centre is wheelchair accessible. Guests must be self-sufficient.Guests can also use the washer and dryer for laundry. Registration is open between 7 and 9 p.m, seven days a week. “At 9 p.m., we lock the door, and it’s lights out at 10pm,” noted Gauthier. “They’re outside all day, so they are tired. When they come inside for the warmth, they do what I do: they fall asleep. They’re not here to socialize… we’re offering them a place to clean up, a place to sleep and keep warm. Checkout is at 8am. "Continental breakfast" is provided ( i.e. toast, muffins,coffee. juice). more... See more text