Kamloops shelters operating at over capacity as cold weather persists

KAMLOOPS — As a cold snap continues across British Columbia, BC Housing is giving more money to homeless shelters, so they don’t have to turn anyone away.

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) operates many shelters in Kamloops, and it says the financial assistance is crucial.

“We’ve received support from BC Housing to bring in additional resources, as far as staffing, where we’re not able to get the staff overtime access. And just making sure that we can bring everyone indoor,” CMHA Executive Director Alfred Achoba explains.

According to Achoba, in November, a man who frequently accessed local shelters died of hypothermia on a cold winter night.

He says this highlights the need for more shelters in Kamloops.

“The legacy of this man will hopefully bring that conversation open about how we need shelter and the importance of shelter. Especially at times like this,” he adds.

For those living on the streets, these shelters are vital. Bruce Olsen has been sleeping at the Mustard Seed — which only has space for 20 people. He calls it a “life saver.”

“I’m getting older, I’ve got bone cancer in my ankle. Makes it hard to get around. It’s nice to know I can stay here without getting put out on the street, wandering around too far wondering where to go,” Olsen says.

With most shelter options located in the Kamloops city centre, Achoba says people experiencing homelessness on the North Shore are struggling to find a way over.

“We provide cabs, we have our shuttle system that runs from [2 p.m. to 10 p.m.] and they’re even extending the hours,” Achoba says.

In the coming weeks, the City of Kamloops will open another shelter on the North Shore.

“Additionally, there’s a shelter at 600 Kingston Ave. on the North Shore that will be opening,” Kamloops’ Social Housing and Development Manger Carmine Mazzotta says. “That will be a 40-bed shelter using temporary modular units.”

Achoba says even with these shelters, Kamloops is still short 50 beds. Both he and Mazzotta hope to see a permanent, long-term solution.

Until then, Kamloops shelters will continue to operate at over-capacity — with or without additional funding from BC Housing.

“We’re not going to turn anyone away. Last night, we had 32 extra people in our shelters. We might see twice that number tonight and we’re prepared for it,” Achoba says.