By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
As extreme cold weather settles over Chatham-Kent for the next five days, the municipality is reinforcing its commitment to keeping residents safe by expanding warming centre options and support services.
Hope Haven, located at 183 Wellington St. W. in Chatham, will continue to operate as a warming centre, open nightly from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and daily from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. The initiative, supported by Chatham-Kent council, ensures a warm and safe space for vulnerable individuals through to the end of March.
“All branches of the Chatham-Kent Library are also available as warming centres during regular business hours,” said Eric Labadie, manager of corporate communications for the municipality. Residents can find branch-specific hours on the Chatham-Kent Public Library website at www.chatham-kent.ca/library.
Recognizing transportation as a barrier for some, the municipality has partnered with local cab services to assist those needing access to warming centres. “Anyone requiring transportation assistance can contact the Homeless Response Line at 519-354-6628, and a cab will be arranged,” Labadie said.
Community feedback on the warming centre program has been overwhelmingly positive. Recently, the municipality enhanced its support by approving sixty-five thousand dollars in funding to keep Hope Haven’s warming centre fully operational until March.
“This program is a critical part of our response to the cold weather and homelessness,” Labadie said. “The community’s positive response and council’s additional funding have allowed us to ensure these services remain available during the harshest months.”
As temperatures drop, the municipality urges residents to stay informed, take precautions, and reach out for assistance if needed.
Key Resources:
Hope Haven Warming Centre: 183 Wellington St. W., Chatham
Homeless Response Line: 519-354-6628
Chatham-Kent Library Hours: Visit www.chatham-kent.ca/library
