The Extreme Weather Response (EWR) service provides extra emergency overnight shelter spaces during periods of extreme winter weather, including sub-zero temperatures, snow or extreme winds. On Salt Spring Island, Island Community Services is designated under the Assistance to Shelter Act as community representative and host of the EWR service which provides up to 10 extra beds during extreme weather events.
The EWR service is located at 268 Fulford-Ganges Road at the site of the year round 24/7 Emergency Shelter.
The EWR service provides additional shelter spaces from 6:00 PM to 8:00 AM limited to extreme weather only, and is a winter weather-related emergency program between October 15th and April 15th. EWR service is activated and cancelled based on weather and forecast conditions. Activation involves notifications to RCMP and local service delivery partners.
The strain on Emergency Shelter capacity becomes more acute during extreme weather conditions. There is an exceptional need for emergency shelter when many otherwise sheltered homeless have their shelter compromised. This may include individuals in vehicles, camps or on boats that are not adequately winterized. These individuals may typically not access shelter services. The most critical situations are when individuals are sheltering on boats which may not be seaworthy, and face life threatening conditions during winter storms.
The Emergency Weather Response is funded by the Government of BC through an operating agreement with BC Housing. It is part of a province-wide network of year-round, temporary, and extreme weather shelters.
To find out more contact Island Community Services Emergency Shelter at (250) 537-9971 ext. 244.
