Hamilton's FirstOntario Centre converted to help during pandemic

FirstOntario Centre, home of the OHL's Hamilton Bulldogs, has been converted into a homeless shelter to help during the COVID-19 crisis. It opened its doors on Saturday night for people looking for a place to sleep and receive medical help. The arena has been set up with a medical room, isolation rooms, a place to have dinner and beds.

“The big thing is about being prepared for the needs of this particularly vulnerable population,” said Hamilton's program manager of social housing Brian Kreps.

“What we're trying to be prepared for is, once we're really up and functioning, folks will be residing here.”

FirstOntario Centre will remain open 24/7 with 50 cots set up. Another 25 can be added if needed. taff from The Good Shepherd Centre will help manage the shelter and security guards from the venue will also be on site. Anyone who shows signs or symptoms of the coronavirus will stay in a locker room until they can be sent to a hospital for further evaluation.

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