Rain and cold temperatures activated an emergency shelter in Port Moody last night (Nov. 5).
Kyle Centre opened on Friday for the first time this season as an extreme weather response centre, the Phoenix Society explained in a statement to the Tri-City News.
The B.C. government said this week the shelter is set to provide 15 spaces for the local homeless population due to the dipping mercury as it's set to do so in the weeks ahead with winter fast approaching.
That number could be increased if there’s a demand.
According to BC Housing, which provides funding to operate extreme weather shelters, they open when temperatures are at or below 0 C, or if there’s significant snow, rain or windstorms that could endanger people living in makeshift shelters or in wooded areas.
Located at 125 Kyle St. — the Port Moody facility is set to remain open from 8:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. for the next four nights, citing "extreme rain" is also in the forecast for the Tri-Cities.
It's also expected to be heavily utilized as related weather alerts are activated between now and March 31, 2022.
Last month, Port Moody council approved the use of Kyle Centre as a refuge for the homeless it's close to transit routes and has a large interior space and kitchen equipped with tables and chairs, as well as multiple bathrooms.
Eagle Ridge Hospital is also not far away.
“These beds could be the difference between life and death for those who are homeless and living outdoors during extreme weather,” said Keir Macdonald, the CEO of Phoenix Society, in an earlier release.
In the meantime, local residents looking to help are being asked to consider donating winter clothing to the Phoenix Society.
This includes:
- Jackets
- Gloves
- Winter boots
- Toques
- Socks
Financial contributions are also being accepted by emailing donations@phoenixsociety.com or by visiting the Phoenix Society's website.
- with files from Mario Bartel, Tri-City News
