Dozens of people scrambling to find shelter on Christmas

The City of Hamilton’s decision to cancel its cold alert warning the night of Christmas Eve also meant there would be no warming centres open. That left dozens of people scrambling to find shelter in the frigid cold.

It was through the generosity of a local organization that around 50 people were able to find a warm place to stay Saturday night at The Hub in downtown Hamilton.

Although doors were able to stay open overnight, the executive director of The Hub says the city needs to do more.

Cold weather alerts are put in place when temperatures are at or below -15°C, or -20 with the wind chill. The city has a contract with The Hub, a drop-in program for those experiencing homelessness.

The warming center located on Vine Street in Hamilton was originally supposed to be closed on the night of Christmas Eve due to the cancelled cold weather alert. However, a local organization was able to keep doors open.

The Hub was also able to open Sunday night thanks to community donations, and they are very appreciative for the support they have received.

Ward 2 Councillor Cameron Kroetsch says he will bring this issue forth at the next Council meeting.