Montreal Faces Urgent Need for Homeless Support Amid Bitter Cold Spell
Montreal has been hit by a severe cold snap, leaving people experiencing homelessness particularly vulnerable. Temperatures have plummeted to minus-16 Celsius, with a wind chill that makes it feel like minus-25.
James Hughes, the president and CEO of Old Brewery Mission, expressed concern about the estimated 6,000 individuals experiencing homelessness, with 15 to 20 per cent forced to brave the elements outdoors.
In response to the urgent situation, a new temporary emergency homeless shelter opened at the YMCA Centre-Ville last week, offering around 100 beds. The shelter saw an immediate increase in occupancy, with Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada noting the growing number of women seeking refuge from the cold.
Additionally, the City of Montreal has inaugurated two new warming shelters as part of a broader initiative to create 500 new spaces in such facilities by Christmas. Despite these efforts, there remains a shortfall of approximately 200 spaces, emphasizing the ongoing demand for shelter during the winter months.
Old Brewery Mission has also stepped up its outreach efforts, deploying a second mobile clinic to provide essential health services and support to individuals in need. The organization is dedicated to assisting the most vulnerable members of the community in securing housing and other necessary accommodations.
With the cold weather persisting, concerns are mounting about the safety of those exposed to the harsh conditions. Krisztina Balogh, commander of SPVM’s Station 21, urged the public to contact authorities if they encounter someone in distress due to the cold. Hughes emphasized the importance of checking on individuals and seeking help promptly if needed.
