Residents in Quinte West struggling with homelessness and looking for refuge from the cold will have an overnight warming room option at the Trenton United Church as of Dec. 1.
“As the colder months approach, the warming centre provides a safe, warm and accessible place for individuals to take shelter from the cold,” said Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison. “This centre plays a crucial role in meeting the needs of our most vulnerable residents and we are proud to work alongside Hastings County and our community partners to ensure this vital service continues throughout the season.”
The warming centre will be open nightly – 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. – until March 31, 2026.
This marks the fifth year that the centre has been operational in Quinte West.
Hastings County Warden Bob Mullin said such centres are an essential resource for those facing homelessness and when it comes to offering a safe and welcoming space during harsh winter conditions.
“Hastings County is thankful to continue working alongside the City of Quinte West to ensure this important service is available again this season,” added Mullins. “We value the strong partnerships with local organizations that make it possible to deliver meaningful supports to vulnerable community members (and) these collaborations truly make a difference.”
Trenton United Church is located at 85 Dundas St. E.
More information on this service is accessible via the city’s website.
Meanwhile, in Northumberland County, work is still ongoing to get a temporary overnight warming room up and running for the 2025-26 winter season at county headquarters in Cobourg – this includes ongoing work around staffing and equipment, as well as work with the Town of Cobourg around its emergency care establishment (ECE) bylaw requirements.
“Pending all necessary approvals, the goal is to open the doors as soon as possible,” said county officials, in an update.
Once operational, the temporary warming hub will run seven nights a week until March 31, 2026. It will serve as Northumberland’s only warming room option for the county.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
