Image credit: CFJC Today

By Marty Hastings

EMERGENCY INITIATIVE

ASK Wellness launches emergency heat response initiative

Jul 8, 2024 | 3:50 PM

KAMLOOPS — ASK Wellness Society, in partnership with the City of Kamloops, has launched an emergency heat response initiative at its North Shore location (433 Tranquille Rd.).

The temporary program began on Monday (July 8), with an aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable individuals during the hottest days of the year, according to an ASK Wellness media release.

Tents, tables and a misting hose have been set up behind the building.

Inside during operating hours is access to public showers, sunscreen, water and Gatorade, along with health and social programming resource connections.

The release notes ASK Wellness is prepared to extend operating hours at its Tranquille Road location into weekends should extreme heat levels persist, with hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

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The program will employ peers to set up and take down tents and tables, accommodating up to 40 individuals per day.

City of Kamloops Community Services Officers will be present to ensure community safety on-site.

The North Shore Business Improvement Association and surrounding neighbours have been engaged and ASK Wellness Society is committed to fostering further continuous engagement, according to the release.

A trial sit-down meal service will be available starting July 15, operating from 10:00 a.m. to noon on weekdays.

“The program is intended to be in operation until Oct. 15, at which time there is hope that community partners will have collaborated to find a longer-term solution to the lack of day space programming in Kamloops,” according to the release.

With the lack of available day space and programming options in Kamloops, ASK Wellness Society and the City of Kamloops are dedicated to making this initiative a success and are optimistic about its critical impact, notes the release.