The city's three extreme weather shelters are full almost every night, according to the B.C. government.
An extreme weather alert has been in effect in Prince George since Nov. 1. In response, the province announced last month it would be providing more places for those who need shelter during the cold, brutal winter.
More than 1,400 temporary shelter spaces and over 750 extreme weather response shelters, in partnership with municipalities and non-profits in around 65 communities throughout B.C. were added.
Prince George received 40 additional spaces at three locations in the city.
"Sometimes, additional mats and sleeping spaces are squeezed into a shelter to make more room," says a statement from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
The ministry shared with PrinceGeorgeMatters what capacity each shelter is at:
- Active Support Against Poverty Housing Society, 1188 Sixth Ave. – 15 new spaces, in addition to the existing 25 shelter spaces for a total of 40. The new EWR spaces have operated at 100 per cent capacity.
- Prince George Native Friendship Centre Society, 140 Quebec St. – 15 new spaces in addition to the existing 25 shelter spaces for a total of 40. The new EWR spaces have operated at 72 per cent capacity.
- An Association Advocating for Women and Children (AWAC), 144 George St. – 10new spaces in addition to the existing 30 spaces for a total of 40. The new EWR spaces have operated at 73 per cent capacity.
The shelters are open each night and also provide daily meals.
