Extended Services for Greater Sudbury's Vulnerable during COVID-19

Based on the evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation, and the continued impact on the downtown Sudbury vulnerable population, the City of Greater Sudbury is extending access to indoor rest areas, social services and meals.

Since March 20, 2020, the City has opened the Sudbury Community Arena to allow people access to washrooms and a safe place to eat their meals while maintaining physical distancing. As of May 4, 2020, extended hours are in place at the Arena to ensure a safe, indoor space for people outside of overnight shelter hours.  The Arena is now open from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and from 5 to 9:30 p.m. (previously 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.). Closing the Arena mid-day is necessary for proper cleaning and disinfecting between mealtimes. The City’s H2O Water Buggy will provide clean drinking water to vulnerable people downtown during Arena operating hours. 

The City has provided financial and technical support to the YMCA as they open their facility to provide free, public access to a phone and computer, daily from noon to 5 p.m., which allows people to connect with social service, justice and health supports. The YMCA is now providing two more phones and computers, as well as additional sitting areas where people can rest, out of the elements. The YMCA can accommodate between 20 and 24 people at one time. Two City staff will assist with supervision and screening protocols.

“We must continue to monitor the ongoing needs of our vulnerable populations and take action to do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger. “These additional services will provide people with a choice of resting areas, and also serve to increase social distancing and limit large gatherings. It is our duty, as leaders in this community, to protect all of the residents of Greater Sudbury, and we will continue to make decisions that support our most vulnerable.”

The City provides resources, funding and staffing to community organizations as they work to adapt their services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and ensure services are available to our community’s most vulnerable.

For COVID-19 updates and information related to City services, visit www.greatersudbury.ca/covid, or find us on social media at www.facebook.com/GreaterSudbury and www.twitter.com/GreaterSudbury.

The City of Greater Sudbury, through decisions of City Council, and with guidance from Public Health Sudbury & Districts, continues to take additional steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community.