Despite only having a population of 1,200, Fort Simpson, N.W.T. has a large homeless population. As a result, the community opened a warming centre that is largely operated by community members and clients.
Fort Simpson, N.W.T. Mayor Sean Whelly said the territorial government's evacuation strategy works for single, young people. He said it's not unfeasible for someone with a health condition to be in a cot in a gymnasium, or for pet owners to leave behind their beloved animals.
Fort Simpson, N.W.T., Mayor Sean Whelly said the territorial government's evacuation strategy works for single, young people, but pet owners and people with special health needs are nervous.
Posted: Dec 24, 2020 5:02 AM CT | Last Updated: December 24, 2020
Muaz Hassan, owner of the Unity Store, walks toward the new warming shelter in Fort Simpson, just hours before opening for the first time. (Hannah Paulson/CBC News)
The temperature rests below -30C as Muaz Hassan walks toward the former Unity Store in Fort Simpson, N.W.T., that s been turned into a warming shelter.
It s Friday afternoon, just hours before the shelter opens its doors for the first time.
Hassan has been leading the charge in getting the the shelter ready in his store s previous location, in a building that he owns.