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The project’s programs are run with private money, he said. “There’s absolutely no city money involved in this,” Morand said, nor has the city ever reached out to thank his group, he said.

“We appreciate all the work the community, faith organizations and others are doing on the issue of homeless, recognizing that winter is coming,” Katolyk said. “However, we have certain property and building regulations focused on public health and safety.”

Katolyk would not confirm if the complaint had been lodged by one of the church’s Grey Street neighbours. Morand said he reached out to neighbours previously.

The tents, which cost $2,000 each, can house a total of 15 to 20 people. Both tents will have several cots separated by dividers, giving each occupant a space to call their own. “They’ll be totally off the ground,” Morand said.

He says the tents are built to hold functioning woodstoves, but Morand’s team of volunteers are equipping them with heaters instead. He said the heaters won’t be a fire hazard because they are positioned in a safe manner.

The men in the shelter will use washrooms in the church, he said. There will be tarps above the tents to catch snow, eliminating load concerns, Morand said.

Morand said he already has had interest from two homeless men.

In return for a place to say and help searching for work, tent occupants will be expected to contribute to the Urban Haven community and do chores. They won’t be “lounging around,” Morand said.

The ultimate purpose of the tents is to give the homeless a safe, warm place to stay where Morand’s team can build relationships with them and take them from a life of homelessness to a life of purpose by bringing out the best in them, he said.

“Keep ’em close. That’s the tent idea,” he said.

danbrown@postmedia.com

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