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Extra Shelters Open in Surrey as Cold Weather Hits

Community Shelters Provide Warmth Amid Extreme Weather

As temperatures in Surrey continue to plummet overnight, extra community-based shelters have been activated to provide a safe space for individuals who may be vulnerable to the cold. With the weather feeling like or dropping below freezing, the Homelessness Services Association of B.C. issued an alert on January 14, calling attention to the critical need for additional resources to support those experiencing homelessness during the extreme cold snap.

The shelters in Surrey will be open from January 14 to January 16 to accommodate individuals in need, with several locations offering warmth, food, and shelter. The shelters are a vital response to the harsh winter conditions that affect those without a stable home.

Available Shelters for the Coming Nights

Several locations in Surrey will open their doors to those in need:

  1. Surrey Alliance Church
    Located at 13474 96th Ave., this shelter will operate between 9:30 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. each night. It is accessible via the breezeway entrance in the rear parking lot. This location is for adults 19 and older, but it is important to note that no pets are allowed at this shelter.
  2. South Surrey Recreation & Arts Centre EWR
    Situated at 14601 20th Ave., this shelter is open from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. and is pet-friendly, welcoming both individuals and their pets. It is accessible through the lower parking lot entrance and is for adults 19 and older.
  3. NightShift Ministries
    Located at 10635 King George Blvd., NightShift Ministries will be open from 11 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. daily. However, this site is not wheelchair accessible and does not accommodate pets or carts. A hot breakfast is served at the Surrey Welcome Hub. This site is also available for adults 19 and older.
  4. Shimai Transition House (Women-only Shelter)
    Women in need of shelter can find a safe space at 13327 100A Ave. The shelter is open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., with intake from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. The location is wheelchair-accessible, and pets are welcome. Visitors can enjoy coffee, tea, fruit, and snacks, along with access to laundry facilities, showers, and cart storage.
  5. Pacific Community Resources Society
    This shelter, located at 10453 Whalley Blvd., is available for youth under 24 years old, with 10 beds available. The shelter operates from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., with final intake at 11 p.m. Youth at this location can access meals, laundry services, and bus tickets. However, pets are not allowed at this shelter.

Daytime Warming Centre and Additional Resources

In addition to the nighttime shelters, the White Rock Daytime Warming Centre provides a space for anyone needing warmth during the day. Located at Centennial Arena (14600 North Bluff Rd.) in White Rock, the warming center is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering breakfast, lunch, snacks, hot beverages, and transportation to night shelters if needed. The center is an essential service for individuals needing a break from the cold and a safe space during the day.

The Surrey Urban Mission at 13545 King George Blvd. also offers temporary winter shelter mats, with meals available from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and noon to 1:30 p.m. Additionally, Surrey Libraries maintain an up-to-date list of shelters that are regularly open, and Street Messenger provides a map for locating shelters nearby.

For those seeking shelter or more information, 211 British Columbia is available for support. Simply dial or text 2-1-1 for assistance.

A Community Response to Cold Weather

The extreme cold can have serious effects on the homeless population, making these community-based shelters and resources even more critical. As Surrey continues to see colder temperatures, the concerted efforts of local organizations, including the Surrey-White Rock Extreme Weather Response team, highlight the importance of providing support and resources to those in need. By keeping shelters open during freezing conditions, Surrey’s communities ensure that vulnerable individuals have a place to stay warm and safe throughout the winter months.

For more details or updates on shelters, residents can visit surreylibraries.ca or contact 211 British Columbia. These efforts are essential in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Surrey’s residents during this winter season.

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