The Homelessness Network of Sudbury is announcing an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for the next 24 hours, in response to an overnight low of -15 and a wind chill near -21.
The Extreme Cold Weather Alert program is an initiative funded by the City of Greater Sudbury 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 is predicted to be below -15, below -20 with a wind chill, or when Environment Canada issues a storm watch or weather warning.
People on the street are encouraged to voluntarily 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, agencies implement or extend the following community services:
- Hot Line: 705-675-6422: L’Association des jeunes de la rue will operate an overnight phone line to direct callers to appropriate services and to take calls from concerned citizens.
- Emergency Warming Centre: The Samaritan Center will become an emergency warming center and extend their regular hours of operation by remaining open overnight, from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. during an Extreme Cold Weather Alert. They will provide a warm seating area and hot beverages.
- 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 shelters.
