Kitimat Council was asked to fund a contract worker to put into action a Cold Weather Response Program.
At a total request of $2,600, the potential hire would work under the Kitimat Housing Committee and develop a plan to help people who have no housing over the winter.
Presenting the program on behalf of the housing committee was Trish Parsons, who said that there were a number of initiatives underway, one by Mayor Monaghan to bring in ATCO trailers for temporary housing, and also interest from Kitimat’s Ministerial Association to putting together a cold weather response.
“What we do need is someone to come up with a work plan,” said Parsons.
The current housing resource worker, Ann Moyls, is currently “maxed out” she added.
Moyls had reported to the committee at a recent meeting that there is a need from about eight to 14 individuals who could potentially need shelter in the winter.
“There are a number of residents as well who have to the end of this month to find new accommodation and some are having challenges.”
The anticipated plan, if funding for the worker is approved, would include input from other communities as to what works for them, and risks in providing cold weather response.
The Kitimat Child Development Centre says they are willing to administer the funding and recruitment of the Cold Weather Response Worker.
A letter to council from the CDC’s Margaret Warcup said that they have identified a qualified person for the position already, and a volunteer has also come forward.
Council was given the presentation on October 28 on this but did not debate the idea at the same meeting.