Thirty extra spaces have been opened up temporarily in a heated structure outside the Ruth and Naomi's Mission (RAN) shelter in Chilliwack, said RAN executive director Scott Gaglardi.
"In response to the extreme weather and the ongoing need for housing, we have added 30 temporary spaces in a heated building outside our shelter to provide more people with a safe, warm place to stay."
It's an existing smoking shelter on the RAN property being re-purposed since late in 2024 RAN officials announced they would not have the capacity to offer extreme-weather response shelter spaces for sub-zero temperatures.
The arctic air invaded Chilliwack and the region with below-zero nights and flurries over the weekend.
"There’s a bit of room for people to lay down on the floor, but with these dangerously cold temperatures, our priority is getting as many people inside as possible," Gaglardi said. "Right now, folks are sitting up on benches and resting against the wall. It’s not the most comfortable setup, but at least it’s warm and dry."
On a year-round basis, RAN provides 40 spaces in their Pathways shelter, and 44 spaces in the Revive shelter. Every winter, in partnership with the City of Chilliwack and BC Housing, they expand services to include:
• 26 additional spaces in a temporary winter shelter (Nov 1 - May 31)
• 10 more spaces in Pathways Shelter (funded by the City of Chilliwack, starting Jan 1)
• 30 emergency spaces in a heated building outside our shelter
"We are deeply grateful for the partnerships that make this possible, but we also recognize that shelters are not the solution to homelessness," Gaglardi said.
A shelter should only fiunction as a "short-term safety net," not a long-term solution, and donations are always a huge help.
"With more people coming in, our staffing, food, and supply costs keep rising, so any support is greatly appreciated."
They are calling on government to provide "more affordable housing, greater access to health supports and expanded detox and recovery services."
"We must work together to build lasting, meaningful supports that help people move forward. If you or someone you know needs shelter, please reach out. Let’s continue advocating for real change."
More details at ranmission.ca