Shelter Ban Can Lead to Frostbite or Death, Advocate Warns

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A reader advocating for a man who was banned from a local men's shelter in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, has raised concerns that the 72-hour ban not only prevents him from accessing the shelter, but also the attached overnight warming center, leaving him exposed to dangerous winter conditions that could result in frostbite or even death. The CEO of the organization operating the shelter and warming center acknowledged that while bans are not taken lightly, they may be necessary in rare cases to ensure the safety of staff and other guests.

Why it matters

Access to emergency shelter and warming centers is critical during extreme winter weather to protect vulnerable individuals from the life-threatening risks of exposure. Denying access to these essential services can have severe consequences, especially for those experiencing homelessness.

The details

The men's warming center at 721 Wellington St. E. in Sault Ste. Marie is open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily, supporting up to 10 men at a time. In extreme weather below -15 C, the hours are extended to between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. However, individuals who are banned from the adjacent men's shelter are also prohibited from using the warming center, even though it is a separate facility. The reader advocating for the banned individual said this means he faced "three nights in the cold" with no other warming options available in the city.

• The men's warming center is open daily from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.
• In extreme weather below -15 C, the warming center hours are extended to 6 p.m. to 10 a.m.

What they’re saying

What’s next

CMHA Algoma has stated that bans from the shelter and warming center are not taken lightly and follow a progressive approach, but in rare cases where safety is at risk, more immediate action may be required. The organization has not commented on the specific case raised by the reader, citing privacy concerns.