Sudbury under extreme cold weather alert

The Homelessness Network of Sudbury has announced an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for the next 24 hours. 

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

This alert puts into action a short-term emergency plan to increase community services when the temperature drops below -15 C, there's a daily of -20 C with the windchill, or when Environment Canada issues a storm watch or weather warning.

The temperature is expected to reach -15 C this evening.

People on the street are encouraged to access shelters and services. 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:

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

Shelters: Emergency shelter programs for homeless persons are available 24 hours 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 during an Extreme Cold Weather Alert. As part of its emergency response, they will also provide a hot meal at night.

Out of the Cold Shelter Program: The Out of the Cold Shelter Program (OOCS) that started as a pilot project in late 2013 continues into the 2015-2016 winter season. The OOCS provides temporary cots and a warm, safe place to sleep for persons who are under the influence or otherwise disconnected from mainstream shelter services. The shelter, located at 200 Larch St., will run from 8 p.m. until 7 a.m. every night until April 15.

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.