The Warming Centre will be open from 10 p.m. on November 17 until 7 a.m. on November 18, 2024, as cold temperatures are anticipated.
The City of Campbell River (the City) is activating a warming centre at the Campbell River Community Centre (401 11th Avenue) in response to the cold weather that’s forecast for the evening of November 17, 2024. The Warming Centre will open at 10 p.m. on the evening of November 17 and run until 7 a.m. on November 18, 2024.
“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,” says Jeff Ford, Director of Community Safety. “The Warming Centre 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.”
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 will be available. However, beds will not be provided. The Warming Centre will be staffed by individuals who have experience working with people experiencing homelessness so 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.
The City will notify the public of upcoming Warming Centre activations and operating hours on the City’s website and social media channels. Groups with private bookings at the Community Centre or other locations will be contacted if a warming centre activation will affect programming.
Funding for the Warming Centre is provided by the Province, through Emergency Management Climate Readiness, and by the City.
For more information about the City’s Extreme Weather Plan, visit www.campbellriver.ca/emergencies.
CITY TO PROVIDE WARMING CENTRE ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 - NEWS RELEASE - 2024