Extreme cold prompts outreach efforts for Calgary’s homeless population

Several homeless advocacy groups are out in full force during Calgary's cold snap to help the city's most vulnerable.

As wind chills plunge into the minus 30s, outreach groups in Calgary say the city’s unsheltered population faces life-threatening conditions on the streets.

When temperatures drop this low, frostbite can set in within minutes, making access to warm shelter and proper winter gear critical.

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Volunteers with Be The Change YYC have been conducting street patrols throughout the cold snap, delivering hand warmers, winter coats, scarves, snowpants, long underwear, hot tea and snacks to people sleeping rough.

Before heading out each night, teams assess where the greatest needs are and load up wagons with supplies from their warehouse. Organizers say that beyond the physical items, the goal is also to offer connection and reassurance.

“We focus on supplying what’s necessary to get by, especially in extreme weather,” said Karen McPherson with Be The Change YYC.

“So when we show up with warm clothes or somebody’s just really cold, just wearing a pair of sneakers, we have toe warmers or boots for them. It makes a really big difference and reminds people that people really do care.”

Police and emergency officials continue to warn that the extreme cold poses life-threatening risks, especially for those without consistent access to shelter.

Along with emergency shelters, the City of Calgary has opened warming centres during the cold snap. However, advocates say more overnight warming spaces are needed during prolonged periods of extreme weather.

With sub-zero temperatures expected to continue into the week, outreach groups say demand for winter supplies remains high, and donations of cold-weather gear are always needed.

The City of Calgary will speak about its efforts for Calgary’s most vulnerable later this afternoon.