The Portage la Prairie Community Revitalization Corporation (PCRC) has made the disappointing announcement that it will be closing the Portage Community Shelter at the end of the month.

Executive director Victoria Espey says the shelter had been relying on COVID relief grants and donations from businesses since it opened its doors 15 months ago. She explains what their current system for obtaining the money looked like.

"This funding came to us in three month increments, meaning every two months or so, we'd apply for an extension, which we've done for the past 15 months," notes Espey. "Now that we're starting to come out onto the other side of COVID, that funding is just not coming forward anymore."

She adds there will need to be reassessment on what the PCRC will be able to do to combat the problem of homelessness. She says you can still donate, and talks about what those dollars will be used for.

"We will still be providing support to the homeless population, people who are in need in our community. We will still be providing support, so that could be through any sort of donations," explains Espey. "We will still accept donations that will be distributed to community members in need."

She would also like to thank the community which has allowed them through donations to keep a few staff members on board. The last day for the shelter will be August 30.