Emergency Shelter Update and the Out of the Cold – Winter Response Program

Kawartha Lakes – As temperatures drop and winter sets in, Kawartha Lakes is taking additional steps to support individuals experiencing homelessness. In response to the ongoing affordable housing crisis and colder weather, the municipality is increasing shelter capacity to ensure that those in need have a safe, warm place to stay.

Beginning December 1, 2024, Kawartha Lakes is working in partnership with A Place Called Home to temporarily expand emergency shelter services through the Out of the Cold Program. The temporary increase in shelter capacity will be activated when temperatures fall below -10°C, ensuring that individuals experiencing homelessness are brought inside to avoid the dangers of extreme cold.

“We are committed to keeping our community safe and warm this winter,” stated Mayor Elmslie. “No one should have to face the harsh elements of winter without shelter. By increasing our emergency shelter capacity, we are ensuring that those experiencing homelessness have access to the warmth and security they need during this critical time.”

The Out of the Cold Program will allow A Place Called Home to temporarily increase shelter capacity during significantly cold days by accessing rooms at local motels.

In addition to the Out of the Cold Program, the municipality and Place Called Home have partnered to permanently increase shelter capacity from 19 to 30 beds, effective December 1, 2024. The initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at addressing the affordable housing crisis in Kawartha Lakes and the County of Haliburton, which continues to put pressure on the emergency shelter system.

Kawartha Lakes and A Place Called Home continues to focus on long-term housing solutions, with an emphasis on housing-first approaches. By providing support and resources to those experiencing homelessness, the goal is to secure stable, long-term housing for individuals in need.

“The colder months always bring an increased demand for shelter services,” said Angela Ricciuti, Executive Director at A Place Called Home. “By expanding our shelter capacity, we can help meet this demand and ensure that everyone in our community has a place to stay, no matter the weather.”

If you live in the City of Kawartha Lakes or the County of Haliburton and are at risk of becoming homeless and need emergency shelter, please contact A Place Called Home at 705-328-0905 or toll-free at 1-866-520-2689.

If you see someone staying outside, please report this by completing the City’s Encampment Reporting Form or email the Homelessness Street Outreach Team at streetoutreach@kawarthalakes.ca. Please note that these forums are not for crisis intervention. If you encounter someone in distress or facing a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

---

Staying Connected

Activate your Jump Inbox to be the first to know about municipal news and events. Connect with us on Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.

- 30 -

Media Inquiries