Delta’s emergency weather shelter ready when temperatures dip

Delta’s emergency weather shelter is set to open at Ladner United Church.

Now in its third season at the 48^th Avenue church, the shelter can accommodate up to nine people and will be open from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. when the temperature drops below zero or in severe windy and rainy weather conditions.

Shelter coordinator Shirley Baker has been working with Options Community Services, Delta Fire Department, a small number of volunteers and Ladner United Church council to ensure the shelter is ready to open when called upon.

“Once there is a call for us to open, we will then re-asses every day if the need is there or weather conditions dictate to open for longer periods,” said City of Delta social planner Gillian McLeod. “Sometimes it is just continued and then we will alert everyone when we deactivate.”

McLeod said this year Baker is using the City of Delta seasonal start-up funds to update signage to direct folks to the shelter.

McLeod said Delta is grateful to Ladner United, Baker and all the volunteers for everything they do to ensure there is support for those in need.

“It’s warmth and welcome for whatever time is needed,” said McLeod. “Shirley is a gem. (We’re) very grateful to her and all the volunteers.”

Baker said the community has always been great in donating items for shelter users. She is hoping that goodwill will continue this year.

“The most valuable gifts would be to have some more gift cards to have on hand,” said Baker. “They can be from Save-on-Foods, Starbucks, some of the local coffee shops. I have some food on hand to get us started, but if anyone wants to donate some fruit cups and soups with pull tab lids - these are items our guests can take with them easily. I have a small supply of water bottles that can be given out with water, coffee or hot chocolate when people come in or leave, so we could use some of those. As well, socks, gloves and scarves are always welcome as are hand warmers.”

Donations can be dropped off during shelter operating hours in the evening or at the church on Tuesday through Friday mornings.