The recent cold weather is keeping Chatham’s overnight shelter busy, but not like many suspected.
Around 55 people visited Hope Haven overnight Monday and Tuesday. The area had been under an extreme cold warning during these two days with temperatures getting as cold as -30 Celsius.
Since Hope Haven opened its doors overnight at the beginning of December, the shelter has been averaging between 60 and 90 people every night.
Hope Haven General Manager Loree Bailey told CK News Today they were expecting a big jump in numbers because of the weather, but were also not surprised there was a drop.
“When its not super extreme, sometimes we see people who do have housing but might not have hot water and they might come because they know we’re open and they can come and have a snack, a coffee, and maybe a shower,” she said.
Over the past two days, more than 60 people visited the shelter during its usual hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bailey explained, just like overnight, they've been averaging between 60 and 90 people during the day.
She noted when its gets really cold, especially at night, it’s not uncommon for people to avoid walking around and just hunkering down somewhere. Bailey also believes many have already found ways to keep warm, stopping them from using the shelter.
“There are people who maybe have some type of propane heater, something they’re using to keep themselves warm, and staying bundled up and inside their tents,” she explained.
Even though Hope Haven didn’t see the numbers many were expecting, the shelter was prepared to help everyone that needed it.
A call for donations was put out before the extreme cold weather hit. Many people across Chatham-Kent donated hand and feet warmers, gloves, and blankets.
“We were in desperate [need] of and Chatham-Kent as a whole really answered that call,” said Bailey.
Despite this, the shelter is still in need of donations. People can donate in person during the day from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. or through e-transfer using the email chathamhopehaven@gmail.com.