TERRACE — With temperatures in the Skeena region plummeting toward extreme lows, the City of Terrace and its community partners have activated a daytime Emergency Warming Centre (EWC) to support the city’s most vulnerable residents.
The centre is designed to provide a safe, climate-controlled drop-in space for individuals who are unsheltered or precariously housed and unable to access safe shelter during the current extreme weather event.
Warming Centre Details
- Location: ‘Ksan Society’s Turning Points Building – 4444 Lakelse Avenue
- Dates: Wednesday, February 18, 2026, to Thursday, February 19, 2026
- Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Daytime)
- Capacity: Up to eight persons per two trained staff members on-site
How the Community Response Works
The activation of an EWC is a coordinated effort between the City of Terrace, local service providers, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR).
Staffing and Safety
To ensure a safe environment, the centre is staffed by individuals trained in trauma-informed practice and overdose response. Because staffing is a persistent challenge in the North, the EWC can only operate when a minimum of two trained staff members are available to maintain the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Other Available Resources
If the EWC reaches capacity or is unable to open due to staffing constraints, several other local resources are available:
- Outreach Teams: Groups like the Kermode Friendship Society, TDCSS, and Northern Health conduct wellness checks and provide transportation to warm spaces.
- Terrace Public Library: Offers a warm, quiet space during regular operating hours.
- The Garage: Provides outreach on Thursday mornings (10:00 AM – Noon) with light meals provided by the Salvation Army.
How You Can Help
The City of Terrace and its partners are encouraging residents to support these efforts through targeted donations to local non-profits.
- Winter Clothing: Socks, gloves, jackets, tuques, blankets, and tents can be dropped off at The Garage, Kermode Friendship Society, or the ‘Ksan Free Store.
- Food Items: Non-perishable, shelf-stable items such as soup cans, water, and packaged coffee.
- Financial Support: Donations help non-profits cover staffing costs and purchase essential supplies.
Residents are also urged to check on their neighbors and look out for one another during this period of extreme cold.
