Photo from the Nanaimo News Bulletin
Extreme Weather Response Shelter
Comox Valley Weather Forecast for January 2026:
Temperature -3Cº · Wind SE 35 km/hr · Heavy blowing snow
There are over 200 people in the Comox Valley experiencing homelessness and 20% of them are seniors. Can you imagine navigating winter weather without a home?
On Sunday, November 16th, at 11:45pm after coffee time, there will be an information session in the church hall to explore the possibility of opening an Extreme Weather Response Shelter (EWR) at Comox United Church.
Late in 2023, the need for an EWR in Comox was identified and tentative discussions in the Church Council commenced in September of 2024.
So what is an Extreme Weather Response Shelter?
If current or forecast weather conditions reach a certain pre-defined threshold, the regional district will declare an EWR. EWR Shelters then open between specified hours (often 7pm to 7am OR 8pm to 8am). A third-party agency that has extensive experience running shelters both in the lower mainland and on the island would run the shelter at Comox United. There is a predetermined maximum number of clients allowed (in our case probably 10). When that number is reached, the doors will be closed and no further clients would be admitted.
The Comox United Council invites us to explore together the possibility of an EWR Shelter that provides a substance-free space and is run as a pilot project for one season.
To learn more, please join us for a conversation on November 16 after church (and coffee). Please send questions to Rev. Karen prior to the gathering at minister@comoxunitedchurch.com
You’re also welcome to talk with Rev. Karen, Ken Newman or Joanne Wiens after this Sunday’s worship service.