Salvation Army in Winnipeg Helps Community Fight Extreme Cold
Over the past month, Manitoba has faced bitterly cold temperatures that have put vulnerable people and those experiencing homelessness at risk.
To prevent anyone from being left out in the cold, The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in Winnipeg has offered increased support throughout the winter season.
When temperatures drop, demand for shelter rises. The Centre of Hope operates out of a large building, allowing staff to make additional spaces available if needed.
Extra staff are also deployed to support the increase in guests winter brings.
Warm Refuge
The assistance is not limited to overnight shelter. Support is also available to those trying to escape the cold during the day. The centre operates a warming space that opens anytime temperatures dip below 0 C. People are welcome to enter the building to warm up, request food or access additional services.
Winter wear is also available upon request, including toques and neck warmers, helping guests protect themselves from the elements once they return outside.
Mobile Support
Extreme cold can push people into unsafe situations, particularly those living in areas of the city further from the downtown core where the majority of services are located. Limited access to overnight shelters can increase the risk of exploitation, including human trafficking.
To address these risks, the Centre of Hope operates a mobile outreach vehicle that runs five nights per week, focused on their Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) response efforts. It runs nightly from 7:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m., in areas where fewer resources are available.
Outreach staff provide snacks, water, warm clothing, and safe rides to shelter when needed, ensuring vulnerable individuals are protected from abuse and extreme weather.
Shelter Services
The Centre of Hope operates three shelter programs—transitional shelter for those working toward permanent housing, the SonRise Family Shelter for families in crisis and an emergency shelter that offers short-term stays with expanded capacity during extreme weather.
Together, these shelters offer hundreds of spaces for guests. When additional room is required, mats can be set up to ensure no one is turned away.
The Salvation Army works closely with other organizations across the city to coordinate an effective cold weather response. Shelters regularly communicate with one another to identify available space in case of high demand.
In some cases, transportation is arranged for individuals to access a bed at a different location.
Although temperatures have improved in recent days, winter is not over yet. Until the spring arrives, The Salvation Army in Winnipeg will continue to be there for the community whenever temperatures fall.
By Juan Romero
