With temperatures expected to fall this Family Day weekend, the City of Windsor says there is help for people experiencing homelessness.
There are cold evening temperatures and more snow in the forecast for the weekend, so the City has teamed up with the Downtown Mission and the Salvation Army to ensure no one is forced to sleep outdoors. Temporary overnight warming centres will operate at both locations from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., and additional shelter beds will be in place.
"In response to the inclement winter conditions and the need to provide accommodation for those struggling to secure and maintain housing, The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope has mobilized its operations and added 16 additional bed spaces during the colder winter months," said Major Danny Pinksen, Executive Director of Community Services with the Windsor Salvation Army. "There remains a warming center with the goal of providing a warm and safe space to be inside. The Salvation Army continues to work in collaboration with the City of Windsor and the local public health unit."
The Salvation Army is located at 355 Church Street, at Park Street West.
The Downtown Mission's overnight operations will run from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. at 875 Ouellette Avenue, for single men, women, and families, separate from the warning centre which will run from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. For daytime meal services and resting, 664 Victoria Avenue will be available.
"The Downtown Mission is ready to welcome any person seeking comfort from this inclement and dangerous winter weather," said Acting Executive Director Rukshini Ponniah-Goulin. "We have 84 shelter beds and ten warming spots. The additional support and resources that the City of Windsor provided will keep people experiencing homelessness safe from the harm that this weather can inflict."
The Welcome Centre for Women will provide 24-hour emergency shelter for single women and families on Bridge Avenue off University Avenue West.
The City's Homelessness and Housing Help Hub (H-4) at Windsor Water World is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, including statutory holidays, to help single men and women experiencing homelessness.
The 211 Helpline is available 24-hours for help to find warming places and access to community services.
Being outside in the extreme cold for long periods can lead to frostbite or hypothermia, which are medical emergencies. If you or someone you come across has symptoms, call 911.
