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