As the deep winter chill finally begins to ease in Rocky Mountain House, the community is reflecting on the crucial role that Rocky’s cold weather warming shelter is playing to keep vulnerable individuals safe.
Kandis Stradecki, chairperson for the Clearwater Region Housing Foundation says the shelter is “vitally important”.
“We had usership every night,” Stradecki explained. “We had some folks coming and going, but a consistent group of about 11 individuals were staying overnight and using the mats.”
Despite fluctuating numbers each night, Stradecki spoke about the community’s generosity, with donations flowing in from local schools, churches, and residents. One notable initiative was a sock drive organized by a local school, which contributed much-needed warm socks to shelter users.
During the cold snap, the shelter operated at extended hours from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to ensure no one had to face the extreme cold. Now that weather is slightly warmer, Stradecki says it’s going back to regular hours of 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Stradecki acknowledged that while the current funding is secured for this winter season, plans are already underway to ensure the shelter continues beyond this year. “We’re looking at additional grant opportunities, and we’re hoping to amend our contract with the province to ensure that we can start the program in mid-October of next year,” she shared. The ultimate goal is to move toward a year-round shelter with day programming, offering a more consistent safety net for those in need.
The shelter’s operation has been partially funded by local governments, including a $17,000 one-time contribution from Clearwater County, which was approved narrowly by council. While acknowledging this kind of support is vital, council members have voiced concerns over the financial sustainability of such programs, with future requests for funding likely to arise.
Councillor Genny Mehlhaff highlighted the need for more provincial support to address homelessness and social services, pointing to “provincial downloading” of responsibilities that could be better funded at the higher levels of government. The town of Rocky Mountain House has provided financial backing through contributions when temperatures dip below -20°C, but there is still a sense among council that municipalities are bearing too much of the responsibility.
David Mark Carter of The Lord’s Food Bank, pastor Ken Douma of the First Christian Reformed Church in Rocky, and Kandis Stradecki, interim chairperson for Family and Community Support Services appear before Rocky town council Dec 17. (Town of Rocky Mountain House/Youtube)
Clearwater County Deputy Reeve Daryl Lougheed echoed these sentiments, noting the provincial government should look at bolstering programs like Family & Community Support Services (FCSS), which play an essential role in helping communities support vulnerable populations.
With frigid weather sill a possibility for the remainder of winter, Stradecki is encouraging donations of winter coats, mitts, and other winter gear, which are being gratefully accepted at the shelter.
While spring is not too far off, the work of the shelter will continue, says Stradecki, with hopes for a more permanent, year-round solution that ensures Rocky Mountain House’s most vulnerable residents always have a place to turn when the temperatures drop.
According to Environment & Climate Change Canada (ECCC), highs are expected to reach 8°C this Saturday and 7°C on Sunday.
The shelter is located at the Lord’s Food Bank on 52 St. in Rocky Mountain House.
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