Maple Ridge has an operator for its extreme weather shelter for homeless people.
It will be overseen by Coast Mental Health, a non-profit organization which already runs three facilities in the city – the temporary modular housing on Royal Crescent, and two supported housing facilities.
The extreme weather shelter will be available at 8:30 p.m. during emergency weather events. This facility has 30 beds, and is located at the Alliance Church (20399 Dewdney Trunk Rd.)
It has been operating through the weekend, Jan. 21 and 22, with about 10-11 people each night, said Joshua Yencer, a Coast Mental Health employee who overseees the EWS.
“A lot of those attending are thankful it’s open,” said Yencer. “And we’re really trying to get them connected with resources.”
Guests will be provided with a warm meal and a place to sleep. They will be able to connect with Coast Mental Health’s outreach services, including assistance with accessing more permanent housing options.
“It’s the last place of refuge for many of these people who come in,” said Keir Macdonald, CEO, Coast Mental Health, noting the facility is open when there is life-threatening weather.
City hall had been working with BC Housing, which provides funding for the shelter, to find an operator. During the city’s first snowfall, city staff and homeless advocates arranged that the same church be opened to street people, starting on Nov. 29, through Dec. 5. As many as 19 people stayed there.
“We’re proud of the work our staff, Rob Thiessen, Non-Judgmental Recovery and the Alliance Church did to get the EWS up and running,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We are extremely grateful for the collaboration and strong partnership with Coast Mental Health who has now taken over full management of the program and facility. We look forward to working with our partners on the successful operation going forward.”
Coast is working in collaboration with Rob Thiessen, who is known for his past role as the managing director of the Tri-Cities Hope For Freedom Society. Thiessen helped get the shelter opened, and supported the day-to-day services. He praised the city for stepping up during the first snowfall.
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No pets are allowed at this facility due to limited space.
The shelter closes for cleaning at 7:15 a.m. All guests are asked to leave the shelter at this time.
Maple Ridge has one permanent shelter location, which is operated by the Salvation Army. This additional Extreme Weather Shelter (EWS) provides a vital service for many people experiencing homelessness, as demand increases during the winter months.
The shelter is looking for donations of coats and warm clothing for shelter residents. They can be dropped off at Alouette Heights (22207 Brown Ave., or email Renay.Bajkay@coastmentalhealth.com.
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