City Of Campbell River Opens Warming Centre

The City of Campbell River activated a warming centre at the Campbell River Community Centre overnight, in response to the colder weather.

The city’s Director of Community Safety, Jeff Ford, says the Warming Centre is a life-saving emergency response that provides a warm, dry space where people experiencing homelessness can find respite from cold or extreme weather.

He says it depends on the efforts of many staff, volunteers and partners to run successfully.

“Thank you to the community and to everyone who helps to organize, fund, set up and operate the centre for supporting vulnerable residents during adverse weather,” he said.

When activated, the Warming Centre is open to everyone for short-term stays. Visitors may bring pets on leashes and belongings, including bikes and carts.

Hot drinks, snacks and seating is available, but not beds.

It is staffed by individuals who have experience working with people experiencing homelessness, to ensure that necessary support is available.

The City may open an overnight warming centre, at the City Manager’s discretion, on evenings when temperatures of -4°C are forecast by Environment Canada or when low temperature, rainfall or storm events trigger the City’s Extreme Weather Plan, provided that staff, security, volunteers, and space are available.

Services from local providers are available throughout the day, and the City’s Warming Centre will offer a warm space overnight.

For more information about the City’s Extreme Weather Plan, visit City of Campbell River.