Below seasonal temperatures have hit the region, and that means the City of Nanaimo has implemented overnight warming services to help those in need.
According to the city, additional shelters will be open in several key areas, and along with the Regional District of Nanaimo, they’re able to open facilities in four locations.
The additional facilities will be open at The Drop-In Hub and will have 20 overnight beds available, St. Peter’s Winter Shelter will also be open seven days a week with 40 co-ed overnight beds, Risenbridge Temporary Winter Shelter will have 24 beds, and the lobbies at city recreation centres, and Vancouver Island Regional Library will be open during regular business hours.
These are in addition to the four already open at Unitarian Shelter, New Hope Centre, Samaritan Place and Friendship Lelum Youth Safe House
Mayor Leonard Krog says the city and regional district have to ensure everyone is safe from the extreme elements.
“With the possibility of cold weather approaching, ensuring that everyone in our community has a safe, warm place to go is a top priority,” he says. “By working together with the Regional District of Nanaimo and our community partners, we’re expanding services and providing emergency relief to support those in need.”
The shelters have already opened.
