The Salvation Army Responds to Extreme Cold Alert in Toronto

TORONTO, Dec. 13 /CNW/ - In response to the Extreme Cold Weather Alert issued by the City of Toronto, The Salvation Army has opened an additional 40 emergency shelter beds in the downtown core.  The following facilities have opened extra beds: The Gateway - 10 extra beds, Evangeline Residence - 2 extra beds, Florence Booth House - 4 extra beds, Hope Shelter - 14 extra beds, Maxwell Meighen Centre - 10 extra beds.

"The extremely cold temperatures pose a significant risk to people on the streets" said Captain John Murray, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. "We will continue to monitor the situation in an effort to keep our community's homeless safe from the extreme cold.

The Salvation Army provides over 1,200 shelter beds for the homeless each night in the GTA with a combined total of 443,000 bed nights.  The Salvation Army has outreach teams in the community checking on the vulnerable to make sure they are safe from the extreme elements.  The Salvation Army's Street Youth Van will also be on its regular patrol this evening providing meals and a warm place for homeless youth.

About the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international faith-based organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and more than 120 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca

For further information:

Captain John P. Murray, APR
Divisional Secretary for Public Relations and Development
c) 416-998-0117

Neil W. Leduke
Director of Communications
c) 416-578-7998