Someone is sleeping in the entrance of my building/business
If you feel comfortable/safe:
Establish a respectful relationship. Introduce yourself and offer assistance. Check if they’ve used any emergency shelters or if they need help finding housing support.
If they want help, call Fresh Start Services’ outreach team at 506-271-0633. You can also refer them to the Foundation Centre Homeless Hub at 100 Waterloo Street (open 24/7) or Coverdale Centre for Women at 148 Waterloo Street.
If you would like them to move, use a gentle tone to ask them to leave.
Offering them a drink of water or something warm may help establish some trust.
If they refuse to leave and you feel safe, call Fresh Start’s street outreach. After hours, call the Saint John Police non-emergency line at 506-648-3333.
If you feel unsafe or the person becomes aggressive: Immediately call 911.
something to consider
Sleeping outside is rough, so it can take extra time for a person to respond or get moving. Be patient when interacting with them.
Key Contacts:
Fresh Start Services: 506-271-0633
Coverdale Centre: 148 Waterloo Street
Foundation Centre-Homeless Hub: 100 Waterloo Street
Saint John Police: 506-648-3333
Emergency Services: 911