White Rock city council has approved the operation of a Daytime Warming Centre at Centennial Park from November till March 15th, 2025, for the cost of $409,970.41. The operation of the site, awarded to Lookout Housing and Health Society & Engaged Communities Canada Society will operate daily from 7am till 10pm.
To minimize residents’ concerns we heard during a survey, council has also approved hiring extra security to patrol the area outside the hours of operation for $30,000, as well as establishing a Warming Centre Volunteer Group to help with area cleaning.
“While I am proud that White Rock is taking the initiative to provide a safe, warm space for our most vulnerable during the winter months, it’s important to note that addressing these larger systemic issues should be a provincial responsibility,” said Mayor Megan Knight. “Our community should not have to shoulder the entire financial burden for services like this. We will continue advocating for provincial and federal support while doing what we can locally.”
Although the city had initially budgeted $360,000 for the centre, council approved an additional $49,970.41 from the city’s operating contingency and last year’s surplus to meet the full cost. Including the cost of security, the total expenditure will be $439,970.41.
City council is now hoping volunteers will sign up to be part of the Warming Centre Volunteer Group. To apply, please email volunteering@whiterockcity.ca. Donations are also being accepted online.