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Temporary winter shelters set up in Richmond ahead of severe weather

Cold weather prompts emergency shelters and services in Richmond
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Two additional temporary shelters are now open to help people stay warm this winter

Two temporary winter shelters are being set up in Richmond to help people experiencing homelessness stay warm this winter.

Richmond City Centre is expected to experience temperatures as low as 3C this week, with rain in the forecast until next Tuesday, according to Weatherhood.

Environment Canada has issued a weather advisory for Metro Vancouver, including Richmond, warning of strong winds and possible minor coastal flooding from a storm surge.

To support those affected by the cold weather, Progressive Housing Society will operate two temporary shelters to provide a safe, warm space for rest, snacks and referrals to additional services.

The first temporary winter shelter will be at the South Arm Outdoor Pool building, 1011 South Arm Pl., near Williams and Garden City roads. It opened last week and operates  from 7:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. 

This shelter can host 20 individuals, is pet-friendly and can be contacted at 604-374-9876 for availability or referrals.

The second temporary shelter will be at Brighouse Pavilion, 7840 Granville Ave., between No. 3 Road and Minoru Boulevard. It opened on Tuesday and operates from 8 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.

Brighouse Pavilion's shelter can host 15 individuals. For availability or referral, call 604-374-1474.

The Richmond House Emergency Shelter, which provides 55 shelter beds, is also taking calls from those with questions or who want to join the waitlist. The waitlist resets every Saturday, so individuals must reconnect each week to keep their names on the list.

Furthermore, a drop-in centre at 7840 Granville Ave., at Brighouse Pavilion, offers free laundry, showers, support and referrals for those experiencing homelessness. It is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch is served from 12 to 1 p.m., Monday to Friday at the drop-in centre.

For information on emergency weather response shelters across Metro Vancouver, visit BC211’s website at www.BC.211.ca/shelter-lists

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