Risebridge will operate a winter warming centre during daytime hours through the winter months, courtesy funding from UBCM. (Risebridge)

By Jordan Davidson

warm up

‘We finally feel like we can work:’ funding secured for two winter warming centres in Nanaimo

Nov 30, 2022 | 4:20 PM

NANAIMO — Two daytime warming centres have secured funding through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM).

A total of $625,000 from the strengthening communities’ service program will support a warming centre operated by the Risebridge Society located at 520 Prideaux St., as well as another inside St. Paul’s Anglican Church (100 Chapel St.) operated by the Nanaimo 7-10 Club.

Jovonne Johnson, Risebridge’s executive director, said this is a culmination of lots of exhausting hours of work behind the scenes, efforts from volunteers, and constant advocation.

“There were a lot of days and weeks with the feeling of just needing to give up because nothing was really going anywhere and we’re really excited for the first time we finally feel like we can work collaboratively with the city…to be able to effectively serve the population who needs it the most.”

While she was unable to say how much of the money they received, Johnson said they didn’t ask for much, just the basics to help those in need during these critical times.

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In addition to a warm, dry space, they’ll offer a variety of services including application support, as well as assistance accessing housing, employment and basic health needs.

“We were not challenged with the funding we requested, it wasn’t even nearly as much as the funding allotment would have allowed for. We continued to try and be as honest and transparent about our managing funding and support service funding that we require to operate our services.”

She said they began operating as a warming centre on Tuesday, Nov. 29 as the weather began to turn cold.

Their operation will be open seven days a week with flexible shifts to accommodate staff, and to help fill the gaps in services around the community.

Their tentative schedule as of now will be a morning shift of 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and then from 3:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Depending on weather, they may elect to operate one, longer shift to provide respite from the conditions.

St. Paul’s United Church will be open from Monday to Friday with a range of similar services offered.

Johnson said every single cent donated to them goes directly to supporting the most vulnerable and marginalized community members. (Risebridge Facebook page)

Johnson said they are always in need of donations from the community, posting a list every night at 9 p.m. on their Facebook page describing their needs of the day.

She said they have been overwhelmed with donations, with the street outside their office being temporarily blocked due to the large influx of community donations, all of which has lead to a very emotional day for them.

“I don’t think I’ve slept in five days, the real intense efforts started on Friday and Risebridge has been our volunteer space, especially since we’ve been operating without funding for quite a few months now.”

According to a release from the City, the warming centres will be scheduled to open until March.

Work continues behind the scenes at both organizations to ensure they can operate as full-service warming centres.

St. Paul’s Church is currently working out the details with the 7-10 Club Society before their warming centre officially opens its doors.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow