Safe Nights Wrenford is expanding its winter shelter network with a new location at Westbrook Community Arena. The City is adding 25 beds to the program starting Monday, December 11, to meet the growing need during the cold snap. The new site will operate every night from 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. until March 31, 2024. Staff and partner agencies will be on-site to provide meals, blankets, and case management.
The expansion brings the City's total winter shelter capacity to 65 beds across two locations. The original site at City Hall continues to run at 40 beds. The Westbrook location will focus on individuals and couples, while the City Hall site reserves space for families with children. Both sites offer secure storage for belongings and access to washrooms and showers.
"We want to make sure everyone in our community has a warm, safe place to stay when the wind chill drops," said Fiona Gallagher, General Manager of Community Services. "This expansion brings us closer to our goal of having a bed for anyone who needs one during the coldest months. We are also working with local health and housing partners to connect guests to long-term housing solutions."
Residents can help by checking on neighbours, especially older adults and those living alone. If you see someone experiencing homelessness outside, please call 311 or the Wrenford Police Service non-emergency line at 519-555-0117. Do not attempt to move encampments yourself. During the day, public libraries and recreation centres remain open as warming spaces from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
For a full list of shelter locations, intake hours, and what to bring, visit Find emergency shelter. You can also read about Winter for older adults and how to stay safe in the cold.