The Our Livable Solutions pilot project has been in the works for two years and Lettita Flett says seeing the “village” sleeping cabins finally being put in place is a surreal experience.

“It’s mind-blowing to see this actually happening and to hear the reactions from people living on the streets who see them and see photos and are very excited at the idea,” said Flett.

Six of the 10 cabins have been placed in Portsmouth Olympic Harbor. They will be equipped with electricity in anticipation of the displacement of 10 people at the beginning of January.

The cabins cost $ 16,000 each and are financed in part by a social services assistance fund from the provincial government.

“Another thing we get is about $ 150,000 from a trust that was given to the city of Kingston for homeless services,” Flett said.

Ten homeless people with reduced mobility were selected for this project. Flett said it was a small step in the right direction.

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“We hope this pilot will be the start of many projects like this where we can have small communities that support each other and benefit from their support with staff, volunteers and service agencies,” said Flett.

“So it’s a model that we can replicate across Kingston. “

For those who do not have a cabin, preparations are underway at the new warming center. The first meal was served by lion hearts on December 27.

“It will definitely be a welcome center,” said Travis Blackmore, executive director of Lionshearts.

There will be a meal program, and after the meal, people will have access to the warming center. “However, play overnight – we’ll have more details on that in the coming days as we work with another partner to make sure everything is ready.”

Advocates say volunteers are making a difference and hope more people will be able to volunteer their time to help run the warm-up center effectively.