Surrey activates extra shelters as temperatures dip below freezing this weekend. See where help is available and what each location offers.
Cold Nights Ahead — Help Is Ready in Surrey
As temperatures slide below zero this weekend, Surrey is stepping up. Although winter hasn’t fully landed, the chill is already here. Environment Canada has warned that the mercury will likely fall to –1°C tonight and could reach –2°C on Sunday night. That kind of cold can turn dangerous quickly — especially for community members without safe shelter.
Because of this, extra emergency shelters are being opened across Surrey, ensuring people have access to warmth, food, and safety. The Homelessness Services Association of B.C. issued an alert on Friday (Nov. 28), triggering additional overnight spaces.
Thankfully, support is ready — and available right now.
Where to Go Shelters Open This Weekend
Below is a breakdown of each shelter, what it offers, and who it serves. Each location welcomes adults aged 19 and older unless otherwise noted.
Surrey Alliance Church
📍 13474 96th Ave | 9 p.m.–7:30 a.m.
Accessible by rear parking lot breezeway.
- For adults only (19+), no pets
- 30 mats available
- Warm place to rest, safe environment
South Surrey Recreation & Arts Centre EWR
📍 14601 20th Ave | 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
Located near the lower parking lot.
- Pet-friendly
- Couples welcome
- 45 mats available
- Adult guests (19+)
NightShift Ministries
📍 10635 King George Blvd | 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- 16 mats available
- Not wheelchair-accessible
- Adults only
- No carts or pets allowed
Surrey Welcome Hub
📍 13545 King George Blvd | 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Hot beverages and snacks provided
- Can accommodate couples
- No carts or pets
- 16 mats available
- Not wheelchair-accessible
Shimai Transition House
📍 13327 100A Ave | 8 p.m.–8 a.m.
Intake from 8 p.m.–midnight.
- Wheelchair-accessible
- Pet-friendly (restrictions may apply)
- Supports women only — 6 mats
- Offers coffee, tea, snacks, and breakfast foods
- Cart storage, showers, laundry, and bus tickets on exit
Pacific Community Resources Society
📍 10453 Whalley Blvd | 7 p.m.–7 a.m.
Final intake at 11 p.m.
- Supports youth aged 24 and under
- Hot meals served
- Laundry and showers available
- Bus tickets provided
- No pets or cart storage
- Maximum 8 guests
Need More Options?
Two reliable resources are updated frequently and can help you locate additional support:
- Surrey Libraries keeps a current list of regularly open shelters.
- Street Messenger offers a real-time shelter map: streetmessenger.io/map
Why These Shelters Matter Now
Cold weather doesn’t just bring discomfort — it brings risk. Even mild hypothermia can creep in quietly. Therefore, opening these spaces means more than just warmth. It means safety, dignity, hope, and survival. While temperatures will likely improve soon, immediate action can save lives today.
Moreover, shelters often offer more than mats. Sometimes a hot drink, a bus ticket, or a place to shower makes all the difference. And since Surrey continues to grow, so does the importance of community-based support. Through collaboration and timely alerts, people who need help won’t be left outside this weekend.
The Power of Community Support
In moments like this, residents can help in many ways. Even simple actions matter. For instance, spreading information, donating warm clothing, checking on vulnerable neighbours, or volunteering at local organizations can create a ripple effect of kindness.
While temperatures fall quickly, compassion rises even faster in Surrey. The response has already begun — and it’s happening tonight.
How You Can Help
You can make a difference even without leaving home:
- Share shelter information online
- Donate blankets, socks, and winter jackets
- Support local outreach programs
- Volunteer time or resources
- Be alert — a simple conversation can guide someone to safety
Staying Safe in Cold Weather
Even for those with housing, frost can be harmful. Therefore, keep these quick tips in mind:
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Layer clothing | Traps warmth effectively |
| Stay dry | Moisture speeds up heat loss |
| Avoid alcohol outdoors | Lowers core temperature |
| Check forecasts | Helps with planning |
Final Word — Help Is Here Tonight
The cold may be sharp, yet Surrey is prepared. Shelters are open, teams are ready, and support is active. As temperatures fall, the city rises to meet the moment — and that can make all the difference.
If you or someone you know needs help tonight, do not wait. Warmth, care, and shelter are open right now.
Stay warm, stay safe — and spread the word.
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