A new City of Kelowna pilot project is wheeling up a warm and safe place for people sheltering outside.

A 24-passenger warming bus will be parked overnight at Kelownasa国际传媒檚 designated outdoor sheltering site starting the evening of Dec. 1, when the temperature is expected to drop to -10 C.

sa国际传媒淭his is a pilot program that has been developed and implemented very quickly,sa国际传媒� said Colleen Cornock, community safety services manager. sa国际传媒淭he City, BC Housing, Central Okanagan Journey Home Society, and other partners are reacting quickly to the falling temperatures and pulling out all the stops to support those who shelter outside.sa国际传媒�

READ MORE: New program shows real-time availability of shelter beds in Kelowna

The bus is supplied by a third-party contractor with experience providing a similar service in Vernon. It will be parked at the intersection of Richter Street and the Rail Trail, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and will run until the morning of Monday, Dec. 5. A bus driver will be onsite through the night as well as security personnel.

sa国际传媒淥bviously, this warming bus program is not a solution to homelessness or shelter needs in Kelowna,sa国际传媒� said Stephanie Gauthier, executive director, Central Okanagan Journey Home Society.

sa国际传媒淚nvestments in purpose-built shelters, supportive housing, affordable housing, and other long-term investments that address overall affordability are critical as we look toward a solution to homelessness.sa国际传媒�

There is enough funding for the program, provided by BC Housing, to allow it to run for approximately 20 nights. The warming bus will be available as needed beyond the current cold snap and through the winter when temperatures fall.

The program will be assessed, revised, and modified as needed following its first implementation.

READ MORE: To end chronic homelessness in Kelowna more supportive housing needed

gary.barnes@kelownacapnews.com
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