Extreme cold weather alert continues

The extreme cold weather alert issued Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. by the Homelessness Network of Sudbury has again been extended for the next 24 hours.

The extreme cold weather alert program is an initiative designed to protect those who are most vulnerable to intensely cold weather conditions. This alert will put into action a short-term emergency plan to increase community services when the temperature drops below -15 degrees C., or when Environment Canada issues a storm watch or weather warning.

People on the street are encouraged to access shelters and services. Individuals who may be at risk due to low temperatures in their homes are also eligible for these services.

Under a community partnership agreement with the city, agencies will implement or extend the following services:

Shelters: Foyer Notre Dame and the Salvation Army Centre will increase their shelter capacity where possible and exercise leniency in curfews.

Emergency Warming Centre: The Elgin Street Mission will become an emergency warming centre. In addition to the regular services it provides, the centre will remain open 24 hours during the cold weather alert. As part of its emergency response, the centre will also provide a hot meal at night.

Outreach: L'Association des jeunes de la rue (Community Outreach Program) will provide overnight services to make contact with people on the street and to transport individuals to shelters. Outreach workers will be equipped with extra clothing, blankets and coffee for those who choose not to access shelter.

The organization will also run an overnight phone line, 705-675-6422, to direct callers to appropriate services and to take calls from concerned citizens.

Posted by Arron Pickard