The overnight warming centre in Wasaga Beach will now also accept pets with their owners who need a safe, warm place to stay for the night.
The County of Simcoe announced in a joint news release with the Town of Wasaga Beach and Faith Missionary Church that the Ontario SPCA is supporting the warming centre by providing supplies such as crates, food, dog jackets and ongoing support for pets.
"Through a generous donation from the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, individuals experiencing homelessness can now bring their pets to the Wasaga Beach warming centre," stated the release.
The Wasaga Beach Warming Centre is housed at Faith Missionary Church and is open up to seven nights a week from 8:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. when temperatures are expected to fall below -10C.
The warming centre is county-funded and also a collaborative effort with the church providing shelter and food and the Town of Wasaga Beach donating cots, bedding and transportation via local transit.
The County of Simcoe's warden, Basil Clarke, said he's glad the warming centre will also be supporting pets and pet owners.
"Animals provide crucial emotional support and motivation during difficult times, and this collaboration ensures that unhoused individuals can receive care without worrying about separating from their beloved pets," said Clarke.
Those who go to a warming centre can also access support to find more permanent shelter, housing, healthcare and other services through the resources available at the shelter.
Wasaga Beach Mayor Brian Smith said the partnership shows compassion for people and pets, and he said the town is proud to be part of the effort to help both.
For several years, the general philosophy from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has been to keep animals with the families who love them.
"By working together, we can help make that possible. We are very appreciative to everyone who has come together to make this pet-friendly warming centre a reality," said Shannon Laflamme, the community outreach coordinator for Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, in the news release.
Anyone needing shelter or warmth can call 2-1-1 to connect with a nearby shelter or visit simcoe.ca/WinterWarming for location information.