City Of Campbell River Opens Warming Centre Again

The City of Campbell River opened its warming centre again Thursday night as the temperature stayed below zero.

Earlier this week, at a special meeting, Council authorized the City to provide an overnight warming centre during December on evenings when the forecast is freezing or below, according to Environment Canada.

When temperatures reach this threshold, staff will look to set up a warming centre at the Campbell River Community Centre, between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., provided that staff, security, and volunteers are available and that there are no major events or bookings scheduled onsite.

The first principle of the BC Emergency Management System is to Ensure the Health and Safety of all Volunteers and First Responders.

The second principle is to Save Lives which is what an Extreme Weather Shelter seeks to accomplish.

This shelter could be the difference between life and death for those who are homeless and living outdoors during extreme weather.

Funding for this activation is provided by the Province through Emergency Management BC as well as the Strathcona Regional District’s Strengthening Communities grant.

Groups with private bookings will be contacted if the warming centre affects programming, and the City will notify the public on the City’s website and social media channels ahead of the centre opening.

When temperatures reach -4°c or below, funding for a warming centre may be provided by Emergency Management BC (EMBC).

Mayor Kermit Dahl says while community organizations are working to prepare other options, there is a need for an interim location.

The warming centre is staffed with individuals who have experience working with people experiencing homelessness to ensure support is available to those attending accessing this service.