As temperatures drop and winter approaches, the City of Campbell River is prepared to support vulnerable residents through the activation of a warming centre when provincial criteria are met.
The City’s Extreme Weather Plan guides the response to severe weather events. View the Extreme Weather Plan on the City website. For the 2025/2026 winter season, the City has identified a location, service provider, trained staff, and security to ensure the warming centre can open quickly when needed.
The warming centre will be located at the Campbell River Community Centre (401 11th Avenue). It will open at approximately 10 p.m. and run until approximately 7 a.m. Opening and closing times may vary as we work with community groups and private renters to minimize disruption while supporting the vulnerable.
Warming Centre Activation Criteria
The warming centre may be activated overnight at the City Manager’s discretion when Environment Canada forecasts temperatures of -4°C or lower, or with a forecast low of 0°C or colder within 24 hours with an Environment Canada weather warning.
Funding for the warming centre is provided by the Province through Emergency Management Climate Readiness, with additional support from the City of Campbell River.
Services Offered
The warming centre provides a safe, warm space overnight for people experiencing homelessness and others in need during extreme cold weather. Guests are welcome to bring pets (on leashes) and belongings, including bikes and carts. Hot drinks, snacks, and seating are available, but beds are not provided. The centre will be staffed by individuals experienced in supporting people experiencing homelessness, ensuring necessary support is available.
In addition to the warming centre, the City Fire Department may activate a wellness team to check in on individuals throughout the downtown core, providing medical aid and risk reduction when possible throughout the winter season.
The operation of the warming centre is a collaborative effort involving City staff, local social service organizations, volunteers, and contractors. The City thanks everyone involved for their dedication to supporting neighbours and vulnerable residents during cold weather events.
“The Warming Centre is a vital emergency resource that offers a safe, warm, and dry space for people experiencing homelessness during periods of cold weather,” says Jeff Ford, Director of Community Safety. “Its success depends on the dedication of City staff, volunteers, and our community partners. I want to thank everyone who helps organize, fund, and operate the centre—your efforts make a real difference for vulnerable residents. While local providers offer services throughout the day, the City’s Warming Centre ensures people have a place to find respite overnight when other resources are not available.”
Ahead of each warming centre activation, the City will update the public via the City website and social media channels. The City will also work closely with service providers to inform potential users of the warming centre’s location and operating hours. Groups with private bookings at the Community Centre or other locations will be contacted if a warming centre activation will affect programming.
For more information about the warming centre and the City’s response to extreme weather, visit www.campbellriver.ca/emergency-preparedness or contact the City at 250.286.5700.