Inuvik (Apr 08/05) - Inuvik's homeless will not be forced out onto the streets this week after all.

A temporary extension of services has been granted for Turning Point, the town's only homeless shelter which was slated to close March 31.

"We have secured a contribution agreement to cover off the costs from now until the end of June," said John Alexander, band administrator for the Nihtat Gwich'in Council, which will take over administration of the shelter.

Although the organization sees its involvement as temporary, it has set out three goals for the shelter.

"Our first goal right now is primarily to keep the doors open," said Alexander.

The NGC also hopes to offer more programs to the clients and develop a long-term plan to give the shelter a sustainable future before handing it over to another group to run.

"It's a brand new undertaking. It's going to be a challenge, but it's a challenge we're prepared to meet," said Alexander.

The Town of Inuvik will continue to provide the building and land free of charge and will also contribute $1,000-$1,200 a month for utilities, said Mayor Peter Clarkson.

"This will be the first time we've actually made a financial contribution," he noted.

A regional Inuvialuit group also plans to help out.

Now that a legal entity with an accountable board has taken over responsibility for the operation, the department of Education Culture and Employment (ECE) has agreed to renew funding to the shelter. Last year ECE provided about $65,000 to help run the facility, although the annual costs top $180,000.

Alexander declined to comment on how much he expects to receive from ECE, but said he does not expect to run a deficit. Turning Point has amassed a $100,000 debt over the last few years.

"If we operate it soundly, we should be able to operate with the money they've (ECE) provided," he said.

The group will have to find other sources of funding, according to former chair Derek Lindsay, who made the last ditch appeal to the community for help with the 12-bed facility.

"It's been a struggle since day one because it was always a funding problem," he said. "I just hope it works."