The bitter cold is here in Ottawa and it’s putting pressure on the city’s shelter system. With Sunday’s overnight temperatures reaching -18 C, and a -26 windchill, the elements pose a severe threat to those experiencing homelessness who are unable to find a place to stay warm. The Ottawa Mission says there are concerns about the shelter system’s capacity. “For over three years now, we put mats down on the chapel room floor every night and we’ve got people sleeping in the waiting area unfortunately,” said Peter Tilley, CEO of the Ottawa Mission. “Plastic chairs are on the floor and what was 10 to 15 people in September and October has now gone up to about 35 or 40 people a night.” Capacity has long been an issue and there are rising concerns as the temperatures drop significantly overnight, Tilley says. “People’s lives are at risk,” said Tilley. “We saw in this city for the first time in years last January that two people froze to death outside. For both, it seemed to be mental health issues where unfortunately, they didn’t know that to be indoors was a safer bet.” When it’s this cold, frostbite can happen in minutes and it can be deadly when skin is exposed. That’s why Tilley is encouraging people living on the streets to get inside. “Even those who prefer to sleep outside when it’s minus ten suddenly can’t when it’s -20 or -25,” Tilley said. “Our frontline staff will increase their rounds. They’ll go into this block here, they’ll go down the driveway, and behind the houses or on the back porches and just make sure nobody’s at risk of exposure.” Tilley says those who see someone who appears to be sleeping outdoors, shouldn’t hesitate to call 311 for help. “Call 311 and the Salvation Army Mobile Outreach van will show up and bring them to the Mission, the Shepherds Salvation Army or Cornerstone,” he said. “We will make arrangements to get them out to Saint Joseph Boulevard, Queen Street or to the YMCA, where apparently there are a few beds available.” While this is just the beginning of the extreme cold, Tilley is hoping there are no fatalities this year. “Keep your eyes and ears open,” he said. “Pay attention.” To prevent frostbite, dress in loose and layered waterproof clothing, limit trips outside, and limit time outdoors when the temperatures are freezing cold. Signs of frostbite include pins and needles and numbness.
