Surrey Extends Emergency Shelter Access Through Winter
Surrey is keeping its emergency shelters open and operational amid ongoing cold weather and continued need for housing supports, city officials confirmed this week. With temperatures dipping and demand for overnight spaces remaining high, city staff say the extended operations are intended to ensure vulnerable residents have access to safe, warm environments.
Officials stress that shelters across the city will continue to provide essential services, including overnight sleeping space and support from outreach workers who help connect guests with longer-term housing resources.
Shelter Doors Stay Open As Demand Persists
The decision to maintain extended shelter hours and capacity came after recent weather forecasts signalled cold snaps and low overnight temperatures. Rather than scaling back services, the city has opted to keep facilities open and staffed, aiming to prevent anyone from being left without a place to stay during inclement conditions.
Representatives from Surrey’s housing and social services departments say demand has remained steady, with many residents experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity seeking refuge on cold nights.
City Teams Co-ordinate Support Services
Shelter staff and outreach teams are working together to offer not only beds and meals but also connections to health services, housing referrals and information about community supports. City officials emphasized that these wraparound services help guide individuals toward more permanent housing solutions, even as emergency stays provide immediate safety.
The city’s outreach teams continue to engage with people living outside, sharing information about available shelter spaces and helping with transportation when needed.
Partnerships With Community Organizations
Surrey’s approach involves coordination with local service providers and non-profits that deliver front-line support to people experiencing homelessness. These partners play a key role in delivering meals, health checks and follow-up support, helping ensure that shelter users receive comprehensive care beyond basic overnight accommodation.
Officials say these partnerships enhance the continuum of services available to residents in need.
Officials Urge Residents to Share Support Resources
City leaders are encouraging residents and local community groups to share information about shelter locations and services with those who may benefit. Officials note that some citizens may be unaware of the full range of supports available and that spreading the word can make a meaningful difference during periods of extreme cold.
Information on shelter locations, hours and available services is being shared through the city’s website and outreach channels.
Long-Term Housing Focus Continues
While emergency shelter space is a necessary immediate response to cold weather, Surrey’s long-term strategy continues to focus on increasing affordable housing and supportive living options. Housing officials say that expanding permanent housing solutions remains a priority, even as temporary shelters help bridge urgent needs.
The city has reiterated its commitment to working with non-profits, housing agencies and senior levels of government to address underlying issues driving homelessness.
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