New Agreement Allows For Warming Centres In Cumberland

The Village of Cumberland has entered into an agreement with the Comox Valley Regional District that would allow the lower level of the Cumberland Cultural Centre to be used as an emergency warming shelter by Comox Valley Emergency Management.

The temporary drop-in space can be activated as a life safety measure for vulnerable Cumberland residents during periods of extreme cold, much like what is being done in other area communities.

The Village notes that warming centres should not be confused with Extreme Weather Response Shelters, which include sleeping accommodations and are intended to provide extra emergency beds for people who are underhoused during extreme weather conditions.

There is no intention to transport individuals during extreme cold events from elsewhere to Cumberland where they may be further from support networks.

Security personnel will be on site at all times and the warming centre would be staffed by a contractor who is highly experienced in working with vulnerable populations.

The provincial government covers the cost of activating a warming centre. Any additional costs that may be borne by the Village of Cumberland that are over and above regular operating costs are reimbursed.

When activated, the hours of a warming centre in Cumberland would initially be limited to 10pm to 6am, which offers those in need solace from the cold night without impacting regular facility programming.

To learn more, visit Village of Cumberland.