The Extreme Weather Response (EWR) program is designed to provide time-limited, weather-responsive, temporary shelter spaces during periods of extreme weather. EWR is a program funded by BC Housing and based on approved community plans.
The community plan for Salt Spring provides the structure for the EWR program operated by Island Community Services, providing ten extra spaces for overnight shelter at times of extreme weather when the EWR is activated. Upon activation, designated community partners are notified including emergency response services and others that may be in direct contact with those at risk during times of extreme weather such as high winds, freezing temperatures or excessive precipitation.
With the full-time year-round Emergency Shelter situated at Island Community Services, supplies and facilities are at the ready for EWR.
The EWR has been activated once in November, 2024 during a time of an Emergency Weather Alert issued around extremely high winds earlier in November. High winds provide a particular risk to the live-a-board community around Salt Spring Island, an example of how provisionally sheltered people under normal circumstances can require shelter services during extreme weather events.
Island Community Services will publish notice on our website as well as issuing notice to community partners at times of activation and those that may be in need are encouraged to monitor for these.
