Waterloo region shelters overwhelmed as temperatures plummet

As Waterloo region remains under an extreme cold warning, the area's shelters are being overwhelmed by people needing a warm place to sleep.

On Monday night, the region accommodated 270 people who needed a place to stay. Normally, itonly has 195 fixed beds.

When shelters reach what the region calls "overflow," an additional 45 beds are created. If that's not enough, the region then puts people in four to five different motels.

"We have a system in the Region of Waterloo where we're able to flex and create space as we need it,"saidJenniferMurdoch-Martin, the manager of housing programs and development at the Region of Waterloo.

Murdoch-Martinsaid those needing a bed should approach one of the shelters or visitLutherwoodHousing Services during the day.

They can also call the region's prevention and diversion numberfor single adults at 519-624-3133between 8a.m. and midnight.

"We are experiencing high capacity, but we do have space to meet the needs in ourcommunity,"Murdoch-Martinsaid.