In response to urgent needs in the community, an Overnight Warming Centre is opening at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 64 Grand Avenue North in Cambridge, as part of the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness.
Operated by YWCA Cambridge, this location will provide shelter from the cold for up to 20 women and gender diverse individuals experiencing homelessness. The centre will be open from 9:00pm to 9:00am, from November 1 to March 31, 2027.
To access the centre, individuals can call First Connect at 519-624-9133 (24/7) or YWCA Cambridge directly at 226-894-2839.
Serving a vital need
Warming spaces are vital to supporting the safety of people who do not have a home and are unable to access shelter for various reasons. The number of individuals currently experiencing homelessness in the Region is unprecedented. Similar to many communities across Canada, we are seeing the effects of poverty, mental health issues, rising housing costs and impacts of the opioid crisis, first-hand in our community.
Through system planning and partnerships, Region of Waterloo Housing Services is working to increase capacities across the shelter system to meet occupancy needs.
Additional supports
For people living unsheltered, warming supplies and resources such as sleeping bags, tents, winter boots, hats, mitts and gift cards will be provided through many partners. This includes The Working Centre, Thrive HIV and YWCA Cambridge, Engage Rural, and Community Care Concepts.
Regional buildings at 99 Regina, 150 Frederick, and 150 Main Street will also serve as warming spaces again this winter. Extended hours begin November 1. More information can be found at: regionofwaterloo.ca/WarmingSpaces.
In addition to warming centres and supports, nine emergency shelters operate year-round to help support people out of homelessness. Two of these shelters opened last year, tailoring to the needs of women and gender diverse individuals.
More information on emergency shelters, outreach services and other supports for people experiencing homelessness can be found at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/emergencyshelters.
About YWCA Cambridge
YWCA Cambridge is a local registered charity dedicated to advancing gender equity. For over 75 years, they’ve provided essential services like child care, employment skills training, and gender-based violence prevention programming.
They continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our community while remaining committed to building a just and equitable world for all. Learn more about their programs at ywcacambridge.ca.
