More shelter space is available tonight for people who are homeless in Victoria as the nighttime temperature is expected to dip down to 0 C.
An extra 65 mats are available between three shelters: The Salvation Army Addictions and Recovery Centre (525 Johnson Street), Our Place Society – My Place (1240 Yates Street) and Rock Bay Landing (Cool Aid Society) at 535 Ellice Street. Regular bed and mat spaces are open as well.
The Extreme Weather Protocol (EWP) is a community program involving various faith groups, social service agencies, fire and police working together to increase the number of shelter spaces available during acute winter weather conditions of heavy wind, snow and snow accumulation, rain and temperatures of 0 C and below.
The initiative was introduced after a cold snap in 2004.
The Greater Victoria Extreme Weather Response Program says there are many ways people who want to help can get involved. The program is looking for staff and volunteers. People can also donate blankets, self-inflating mats, socks, mittens, jackets, hats, and toques. Financial contributions are also accepted.
CHEK News
