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Cold weather alert issued for the next 24 hours

While daytime temperatures are finally starting to warm up, overnight lows have prompted the Homelessness Network of Sudbury to announce another Extreme Cold Weather Alert in Greater Sudbury for the next 24 hours.
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The Homelessness Network of Sudbury has announced an extreme cold weather alert. File photo
While daytime temperatures are finally starting to warm up, overnight lows have prompted the Homelessness Network of Sudbury to announce another Extreme Cold Weather Alert in Greater Sudbury for the next 24 hours. 

The alert program is an initiative funded by the City of Greater Sudbury to protect those who are most vulnerable to intensely cold weather conditions.

The alert puts into action a short-term emergency plan to increase community services when the temperature drops below -15 C, or when Environment Canada issues a storm watch or weather warning. A daily low of -20 C including the windchill also warrants an Extreme Cold Weather Alert.

During alert periods, people on the street are encouraged to voluntarily go to shelters and services to keep warm. Individuals who may be at risk due to low temperatures in their homes are also eligible for these services.

Under a community partnership agreement, agencies will implement or extend the following community services during the cold-weather period:

–Hot Line: L’Association des jeunes de la rue will operate an overnight phone line (705-675-6422) to direct callers to appropriate services and to take calls from concerned citizens.

–Shelters: Emergency shelter programs for homeless persons are available 24 hours a day through Salvation Army men’s shelter, Cedar Place for women and children and l’Association des jeunes de le rue for youth. 

–Emergency warming centre: The Elgin Street Mission will become an emergency warming centre and extend their regular hours of operation by remaining open 24 hours a day during an Extreme Cold Weather Alert. As part of its emergency response, they will also provide a hot meal at night.

As well, the new Out of the Cold Program will provide temporary cots and a warm, safe place to sleep for persons who are under the influence or otherwise disconnected from mainstream shelter services. This shelter, located at 200 Larch St., will run from 8 p.m. until 7 a.m. every night until March 31.

Outreach: L’Association des jeunes de la rue (Community Outreach Program) will provide overnight services to make contact with people on the street and to transport individuals to shelters. Outreach workers will be equipped with extra clothing, blankets and coffee for those who choose not to access shelters.

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