Local governments in the Comox Valley and K’ómoks First Nation, in partnership with the Coalition to End Homelessness, are asking for community support to offer potential locations where an extreme weather shelter could be located this year.
“From approximately November 1 to March 31, we’re looking for a suitable space to support individuals who are unhoused with necessary shelter and care as we enter the cold and rainy season,” said Jesse Ketler, Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) chair.
“In past years the community has come together to provide a space, however this year those spaces are no longer available. We are now facing a season without additional shelter beds to bring people inside from the cold. We’re hoping the community can come together in a time of need.”
According to the 2023 Comox Valley Homeless Count, the number of people experiencing homelessness in the area has more than doubled since 2020, jumping from 132 to 272, with the majority of people having lived in our community for more than five years.
Once a location is identified, funding is available from the Province for an Extreme Weather Response (EWR) shelter to ensure unsheltered individuals have a safe and warm place to be overnight during the winter months.
Specifically, they are looking for a location that provides at least 15-hundred square feet of space - ideally, two locations to support the diversity of needs of those experiencing homelessness, from 8am to 8pm daily, with each space accommodating 20-40 people. Washrooms are a must, and a kitchen would be ideal, but not required.
EWR shelters are funded by the Province and operated by local agencies. The agency is responsible for providing the shelter service, building neighbourhood relationships, and working proactively with first responders, RCMP, and other community organizations to meet the needs of shelter guests and the community.
If you have a location that would be suitable, you can contact Angela Fletcher, Comox Valley Coalition to End Homelessness, comoxvalleyhousing@gmail.com or 250-218-3752.
To learn more, visit Comox Valley Regional District.
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