The forecast for more frigid, sub-zero temperatures accompanied by bone-numbing wind chills of up to – 23 C has prompted a local men’s shelter to request volunteers put in some extra hours.
“I’m looking for our regular volunteers to put in extra time so we don’t have to send the men out in the morning,” said Wanda Bell, co-ordinator of communications and volunteers for Chatham Hope Haven men’s shelter.
She said the men staying in the 10-bed facility are typically sent out at 7 a.m., but they were able to stay inside until 10:30 a.m. on Monday.
She added the men can’t remain at the shelter all day, because there simply aren’t enough volunteers.
Some volunteers have stepped up so the men can stay until noon on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement Monday, forecasting that Tuesday is forecast to see wind chills reaching – 23 C in the afternoon. Wednesday is only expected to reach a high of – 18 C with a low of – 23 C.
Bell said they are still looking for regular volunteers so the men can stay longer on Thursday and Friday as the forecast continues to call for frigid temperatures.
She said regular volunteers are needed, because there is a vetting process to serve at the shelter, including a police background check, along with an interview and training.
However, Bell said if people are interested in becoming a volunteer, the coming days would be an opportunity to spend time at the shelter during these extended hours, working with a mentor, to see what it involves.
“It might be a nice introduction to it,” she said.
Those interested, can call Bell at 519-351-4010 for more information.
Chatham Hope Haven is also close to expanding the number of beds it can offer.
Tradespeople with Unifor Locals 1941 and 127 have volunteered in their spare time to install a new fire alarm system that will allow for another four to six beds to be opened.
Bell said some finishing touches are being done before the new system is inspected by the Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services.
“I would say within two weeks we’re going to be able to have more than 10 people (stay the night),” she said.
Bell said they have been at or near capacity, adding one person was recently turned away, because the shelter was full.
from Chatham Daily News http://bit.ly/2DFW9mL
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