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A new warming centre in central Nanaimo on Bowen Rd. courtesy of Island Crisis Care Society opened on Tuesday, Jan 2. (ICCS)
warming centre

Second daytime warming centre opens in Nanaimo

Jan 2, 2024 | 4:30 PM

NANAIMO — A second seasonal venue for people experiencing homelessness to escape inclement weather has opened in Nanaimo.

Island Crisis Care Society (ICCS) announced the opening of its winter daytime warming centre at 2025 Bowen Rd. to be open seven days a week from 12 p.m. through 7 p.m. until March 31.

The Bowen Rd. offering joins an existing similar service offered by fellow non-profit organization Risebridge, which opened its Prideaux St. service on Nov. 14.

A third daytime warming centre is expected to open in the coming days, according to Gord Fuller of 7-10 Club Society, at the old #2 Fire Hall at the corner of Victoria Cres. and Cavan St

The three centres are expected to provide shelter and meet the basic needs of nearly 140 unhoused people at a given time during cold weather conditions.

Funding from the City of Nanaimo and Island Health has been allocated to support the three warming centres.

Over 15,000 shelter and warming centre spaces were used in Nanaimo last winter.

A full list of day-use spaces, emergency shelters and emergency food/shower services is available on the City of Nanaimo’s website.

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