Northumberland County will open a Winter Warming Room at its 600 William Street facility in Cobourg, beginning Monday, November 2, providing a safe, warm overnight space for individuals experiencing homelessness during the colder months.
This year, the Warming Room will move from the 555 Courthouse Road facility to a boardroom at Northumberland County’s 600 William Street facility, which will be converted to an overnight reception space for the season. It will operate seven nights a week from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. until approximately April 15, 2027, with the closing date remaining flexible based on weather conditions and the arrival of consistently warmer temperatures.
“Ensuring people have somewhere safe and warm to be overnight when temperatures fall is an important part of our response to homelessness during the winter months,” states County Director of Community and Social Services Bill Detlor. “The Warming Room adds an important layer of capacity to our existing shelter system during this period. It means that when shelter beds are full, there is another welcoming, safe indoor option available to help protect people from the elements.”
As colder weather approaches, the Warming Room will add capacity to the local homelessness response system during a period when the risks associated with being unsheltered become increasingly serious. With the community’s emergency shelter at 310 Division Street in Cobourg regularly experiencing high demand for its 46 beds, this overnight reception centre at 600 William Street will help ensure additional people have somewhere to warm up, and access washrooms and light refreshments.
“Cold winter weather can create serious risks for people who are without shelter, and our community has consistently demonstrated compassion for neighbours experiencing homelessness,” states Warden Bob Crate. “Winter Warming Room services complement the year-round supports available at 310 Division Street, providing additional capacity when it is needed most. The County is grateful for the continued collaboration with the Town of Cobourg and our community partners as we work together to support the safety and well-being of vulnerable residents.”
For more information
For more information about supports and resources in Northumberland for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, please visit Northumberland.ca/HousingAndShelter.
For questions about shelter operations, please contact the Transition House team at: 905-376-9562.
For non-emergency security inquiries, along with inquiries related to Northumberland County’s Emergency Care Establishment License under the Town of Cobourg by-law, please contact: 1-877-770-2564.
Please note: In an emergency, please call 911 for police, fire, and paramedic services.
For information about Town of Cobourg by-laws, please visit the Town of Cobourg website or call the Municipal Clerk/Legislative Services Department at: 905-372-4301. 1.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
