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Despite being dubbed a “mega-shelter” by its vocal opponents, Salvation Army officials counter that what they actually want to create is a community hub that would bring their myriad services together under the roof of a brand new, purpose-built complex. What it does on George Street today — and what it hopes to do on Montreal Road someday — goes far beyond simply providing homeless men with a place to sleep, yet that’s the aspect of the plan that continues to get the most airtime.

Photo by Errol McGihon / Postmedia

Some have criticized the Salvation Army as tone-deaf in its approach to the shelter project so far, saying the organization has ignored legitimate concerns raised by the community. The gritty human drama that plays out daily on the sidewalk out front of its current location on George Street in the ByWard Market leaves some fearful about what could come of Montreal Road, the actual and symbolic heart of Vanier.

But first impressions only ever tell part of the story. The rationale behind the project and those pushing to get it done can perhaps best be gleaned from a closer look inside the Booth Centre.

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Originally built and operated as a school, the red-brick building at 171 George didn’t come into the Salvation Army’s possession until 1948 (a later renovation in 1963 coincided with official naming it the Booth Centre).

Subsequent additions have added a fourth storey, an administrative wing and a large garage with truck bays.

“There’s always work going on somewhere,” says Marc Provost, the Booth Centre’s executive director, as he passes a crew of painters in the lobby during a recent tour. Another crew was busily cleaning up a dorm in the basement following an outbreak of bedbugs. “It comes with the territory. Fancy hotels have them as well,” he says.