LETHBRIDGE, AB – It appears there has been some miscommunication surrounding the reported closure of the make-shift warming centre at Lethbridge’s Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society.
A social media post, claiming the temporary shelter was closed by the City Wednesday night, has been garnering a lot of attention.
Director of Community Services Mike Fox says the City did not close the warming centre.
He says the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society made the decision to transition clients to the Alpha House Shelter which has the capacity and resources to support those individuals.
The City says it’s working with key partners to ensure a seamless transition process so all vulnerable populations are adequately supported.
“I have spent time at the warming centre recently and I commend the Friendship Society for all the work they have done,” says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “The community has really come together to make sure folks are looked after and their needs are met.”
Funding and operations of the Alpha House Shelter and the temporary warming centre are not within the jurisdiction of the City of Lethbridge.
The City though, says it continues to work with partners to identify ways to improve the coordination of services and meet the needs of the community.
City officials also say, that it proactively planned with key stakeholders to ensure adequate shelter space was, and continues to be available.
