City launches winter response strategy for unhoused individuals

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton, along with community partners, is launching a winter response strategy to better address the needs of those experiencing homelessness during the winter months.

The winter response strategy, effective December 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, will provide:

• a warming bus; 
• extended hours for select recreation centres and Hamilton Public Library’s Central branch;
• 24-hour operational washroom facilities at two City parks;
• 100 additional daytime shelter drop-in spaces;
• and 80 overnight shelter warming spaces.

This strategy is being implemented in an effort to provide a more robust and effective response to community needs, especially those living unhoused.

The response is not tied to the City’s existing cold alert system. The offerings as part of the response will be available December 1 to March 31, regardless of the temperature outdoors.

For more information on the winter response strategy, including shelter locations and additional services, visit www.hamilton.ca/WinterResponse.

The strategy is an action item under Hamilton City Council’s priority of creating Safe and Thriving Neighbourhoods.