Tri-Cities overnight homeless shelter now open

As the temperatures dip, there are now 20 beds set aside for homeless folks in the Tri-Cities.

Operated by the Progressive Housing Society, the overnight shelter is located at the former Riverview Hospital now known as Səmiq̓wəʔelə, (suh-Mee-kwuh El-uh).

“This temporary shelter program is more than just a refuge from the harsh winter weather; it’s a community effort dedicated to supporting and uplifting individuals facing homelessness,” stated a release from the society.

The service is set to operate from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. and includes a hot meal.

Besides protection from freezing temperatures, the shelter is also intended to connect residents with support services.

“We provide connections to healthcare, mental health resources, and help with housing applications, aiming to address the broader needs of our guests,” the society stated.

Residents needing shelter can be picked up by Lincoln SkyTrain, Christmas Way at Pheasant Street, or Kingsway at Jane Street.

Walk-ins are not permitted. The shelter is slated to stay open until March 31.

In recent years, a rotating group of churches offered shelter services over fall and winter. However, the program was halted last year due to the scope of homelessness and associated health challenges.

Rev. David Cathcart of Trinity United Church explained that demands were rising beyond the church’s ability to meet them. The toxic drug supply, “makes a 12 hour stay in a shelter (that is not equipped to be a safe use site), impossible for people who need to use throughout the night,” Cathcart explained in a letter to the City of Port Coquitlam.

While there is a homeless shelter at 3030 Gordon, the facility is generally at capacity with an encampment outside.