New overnight warming centre to open in Kitchener

The Region of Waterloo is partnering with Thresholds Homes and Supports to open an overnight warming space in Kitchener.

During the latest Point in Time Count, completed in October, there were 2, 371 instances of homelessness were recorded. The region said the recent count proves the number of people experiencing homeless is climbing at an “alarming rate,” and that offering more spaces for relief from the cold is necessary.

“In this cold weather, finding more solutions to help our most vulnerable stay safe and warm is a top priority,” said Coun. Jim Erb, chair of the community and health services committee, in a media release. “Through the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, regional council and the community have committed to creating more winter warming spaces in our region.”

The warming centre will be at 298 Lawrence Ave. The location will begin operating on Jan. 17 from 7:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.

“Thresholds is proud to work within a community that ensures that every person has a warm place to rest during a time when community housing resources are inaccessible to so many,” said CEO, Eric Philip, in the release.

Plans for additional overnight warming measures in the community are underway. Updates will be shared when finalized.