Concern as homeless numbers continue to rise
KAMLOOPS — There is more evidence tonight of Kamloops’ growing homeless population. November was an extremely busy month for shelters in the city which have been forced to run at or over capacity. Cold weather over the past few weeks has made it difficult for those living outdoors, with many of them turning to the Emerald Centre and the Out of the Cold program for refuge from the bitter elements. The number of people accessing shelters is higher than ever.
The start of Winter may still be more than two weeks away, but bone-chilling temperatures hit early and hard this year, keeping Kamloops shelters busier’ than ever.
“Over the last 15 days that we’ve been activated, we’ve seen anywhere from 3 extra individuals per night, up to 23 last night.” Said Christa Mullally, Executive Director of the CMHA.