Extreme Heat Endangers People Experiencing Homelessness – Shepherds of Good Hope Helps

Summer in Ottawa includes extreme heat and humidity. Temperatures are becoming more extreme and lasting longer. This poses a severe threat to people experiencing homelessness. 

When the temperature rises for extended periods of time, risks go up. 

Health Impacts of Extreme Heat: 

• Dehydration 
• Heat stroke 
• Sunburn 
• Respiratory problems – caused by spikes in air pollution 
• Death 

How Shepherds Supports During Extreme Heat Episodes 

Housing is the best way to keep people safe during extreme weather. Shepherds of Good Hope houses 339 in supportive housing residences across the city, providing a cool, safe place to call home. 

Shepherds also provides support and relief for people experiencing homelessness including: 

• 16 hour per day drop in at the air-conditioned community kitchen 
• 240 bed transitional shelter for adults of all genders 
• Three meals a day in the community kitchen 
• Increased wellness checks for individuals outside the shelter and community kitchen 
• Health care in our Transitional Emergency Shelter Program (TESP) and our Target Engagement and Diversion (TED) program, managed and run by Nurses from Ottawa Inner City Health 
• Water and cool drinks for people outside the shelter 
• Providing sunscreen 

Shepherds of Good Hope works closely with partnering agencies to ensure everyone has a place to sleep or to avoid the heat. This collective effort encourages people to come inside during extreme weather events. 

If you see someone in need of help: 

• Call 2-1-1 for information about drop-in and cooling centres, community and health resource centres, food banks and community food programs. 
• Call 3-1-1 to get referred to an available shelter, or to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to get out of the heat. The City’s 3-1-1 Line is available to respond to calls 24 hours a day. 
• Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice. 
• Call 9-1-1 for medical emergency assistance.