Temporary emergency shelter spaces opening in Kelowna

KELOWNA – The struggles of homelessness are rarely more stark than in the harsh winter months. As Kelowna continues its stretch of cold weather, the province is funding new shelter spaces to keep people living on the streets warm.

The province is funding 20 temporary shelter spaces, according to a Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing media release.

The City of Kelowna, Interior Health and Metro are working with the provincial government to open the spaces at 1265 Ellis St. The emergency shelter will open its doors at 10p.m. today, Feb. 11.

The temporary shelter will be open for 10 hours a day from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m., providing laundry facilities, washrooms, snacks, warm drinks and community services, the ministry says.

John Howard Society of Central and South Okanagan will manage the temporary shelter and at least two staff members will be on-site.

In addition to the new shelter spaces, there are currently 80 temporary and 80 year-round shelter spaces in Kelowna, the ministry says.

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