Warming centres give those who are vulnerable and may be experiencing homelessness a safe, warm indoor place to rest and access snacks, washroom facilities and referrals to emergency shelters.

Warming centres are generally activated when the City’s Medical Officer of Health issues an Extreme Cold Weather Alert (ECWA) based on a forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada of -15 degrees Celsius or colder, or when the wind chill is forecast to reach -20 degrees Celsius or colder, for the proceeding 24 hours or longer.

Homes First currently operates warming centres at Willowdale Welcome Centre (5800 Yonge St.) and Better Living Centre (Exhibition Place, Better Living Centre, 195 Princes’ Blvd.) during the cold months.

Sites Running This Program

• Better Living Centre Shelter
• Willowdale Welcome Centre