24 new transitional housing units set to open at Northern Pines in August 2025

Northern Pines is expanding its services with the addition of 24 transitional housing units as part of Phase 3. These units are set to open on August 31 and will provide private living spaces with staff support for individuals working toward long-term housing. The shelter will continue its 24/7 low-barrier operations, with expanded facilities that include sleeping accommodations and a separate daytime programming area.

The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DNSSAB) states that integrating housing, health, and other support services in one location creates more opportunities for people to move forward. Mark King, DNSSAB board chair, emphasized this in a release, highlighting the importance of such integrated services.

Northern Pines is operated by Crisis Centre North Bay, which provides both shelter and transitional housing services at the site. Sue Rinneard, executive director of Crisis Centre North Bay, noted that people can experience homelessness for various reasons, including unaffordable rent, trauma, mental health challenges, and addictions. Staff at Northern Pines have observed residents improving their health and well-being while regaining a sense of hope.

Officials shared a recent milestone achieved by a long-term resident who saved money while living at Northern Pines since November 2025. The resident was able to purchase a bicycle, which has made it easier to attend appointments, access community resources, and spend time outdoors. They are also looking forward to moving into a permanent space through the Northern Pines Transitional Housing program.

Another former resident, who had experienced chronic homelessness, recently returned to Northern Pines to share an update after leaving several months ago. Officials noted that the former resident had found stable housing and was accessing local mental health and substance use services.

Northern Pines has also continued its partnership with Clean Green Beautiful North Bay, with residents helping maintain gardens that produce vegetables, berries, flowers, and shrubs. DNSSAB said demand for homelessness services remains significant across the district and that continued investment is needed to address increasingly complex needs and help people experiencing homelessness move toward stable housing.

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