Warming centre in Cambridge has open spaces for women, gender-diverse people in need

After a slow start, a recently-opened warming centre in Cambridge is helping women and gender-diverse people get out of the cold.

The warming centre, operated by Porchlight Counseling and Addiction Services, opened at Wesley United Church on Feb. 1.

“The initial uptake was lower than we’d prepared for. Right now, we’re really focused on making this a safe place for those who will use it and communicating both its availability and safety,” said Jonathan Cassels, communications lead with Porchlight.

The team at Porchlight are focused on getting the word out in order to ensure that everyone who needs to take advantage of the service has the opportunity to do so.

“I think that it’s too early for us to assess what the full need in Cambridge is,” said Cassels. “We know from our partners that there are more people struggling in the community than we’re seeing each night – so we really want to ensure we’re continuing to get the word out.”

The warming centre has space for 30 individuals at any given time, and operates on a walk-in basis.

The centre continues to accept donations. To help, you can contact Centre Coordinator Julie at warmingcentre@porchlightcnd.org.