By Leah Murray

City’s homeless have places to go to keep warm during frigid temperatures

Dec 7, 2016 | 12:00 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The plummeting temperatures this week have many people thankful for the warmth of their homes.

But there are several in this city who don’t have this same luxury.

Chance Janzen goes to the Champion’s Centre every day. He said he’s been really struggling ever since his mom passed away.
“Right now I’m homeless, and I’m staying with a friend right now. I might go to the shelter tonight, but who knows,” he said.

On days where it’s bitterly cold he said he’s grateful to have somewhere to go to get warm.
“I walk all the way down here in the cold to come down here and have something to eat.” said Janzen.

The Champion’s Centre operates from 7:30 A.M. To 11:00 A.M. 365 days a year, and provides a hot breakfast and a chance for the homeless to get out of the elements.

Young minds, big ideas: Elementary students learn about urban planning with 'Box City'

12h ago

HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Summer pool hours extended and discounts applied as Big Marble Go Centre upgrades start

Apr 18, 2024

Medicine Hat company drawing in clients with witty signage

Apr 16, 2024

Manager Paul Schnee said they also make sure those people have access to warm clothes and supplies.
“We provide winter clothes and tuques, mitts, coats, whatever they need, we have an abundance of donations that have come in.” said Schnee.

Despite what some may think, Medicine Hat has not completely ended homelessness. But, city officials say no one is forced to spend the night on the street.

The Salvation Army shelter has seen upwards of 22 people using their emergency shelter in a single night.
Major Murray Jaster said the not for profit can take in up to 30 people.
“We’ve been averaging about 15 sometimes it’s been a little bit higher, sometimes a little bit lower. So somewhere between 15 and 17.” said Jaster.

During some of the cold really cold nights like we’ve seen this week, Jaster said they do see a slight increase in the number of people who use the shelter.

The Salvation Army also operates a resource centre in the basement of the 5th avenue church downtown.
It allows homeless people a chance to get out of the elements and also connects them to services in the city designed to help them.
“In some cases we’re able to refer them to housing first or other agencies that are able to help them to find what they need to get their lives back on track again,” said Jaster.

Janzen said he’s thankful organizations like these exist, so that if nothing else, he at least has a chance to get out of the cold.