Winnipeg Volunteers Brave -27°C to Deliver Urgent Care Packages

UPDATE: On December 10, 2023, volunteers from the Winnipeg-based organization Urban Wagons braved frigid temperatures of -27°C to provide urgent care and warmth to unsheltered and vulnerable community members. The annual holiday walk took place on Sunday afternoon, highlighting the critical need for support in the face of extreme winter conditions.

As temperatures plummet, the situation for many in Winnipeg’s downtown area has become dire. “A lot of people have told us that the shelters are completely booked so they can’t get in,” said Lisa Morantz, director of operations for Urban Wagons. The organization delivered hot meals, winter clothing, and care packages to those in need, emphasizing the human impact of these efforts.

Morantz shared heart-wrenching stories from the streets, noting, “They’ve shown us the spots that they sleep on. So in this weather, it’s almost impossible for them to obtain blankets and hats and gloves to be able to get through the night.” The emotional toll of witnessing individuals struggle in such conditions was palpable. “It’s sad to see them come up, knowing that they need blankets or hats or gloves,” she added, pointing out visible signs of frostbite on vulnerable hands.

With the recent changes in the city’s encampment rules, concerns are escalating. Morantz explained that many individuals had previously found solace in encampments, feeling safer there than in overcrowded shelters. “There’s a lot of violence that goes on, and in encampments there’s a sense of community,” she explained. However, as encampments face dismantling, the number of people seeking refuge each night is growing, leaving many grasping for alternatives.

Urgent needs were highlighted by Ryan Frick, Urban Wagons’ director of social media and communications. He noted, “We see a lot of people that are being affected by inflation, by budgets that are really tight and that money isn’t just going as far as it used to.” The organization is actively seeking donations of jackets, men’s socks, and food, with immediate requests for water, shorts, and shirts for the warmer months ahead.

The annual walk served not only to deliver essential items but also to foster connections within the community. Volunteers reported that several individuals approached them even before the walk began, emphasizing the desperate need for support in these harsh conditions.

As the temperatures continue to drop, Urban Wagons remains committed to addressing the urgent needs of Winnipeg’s vulnerable populations. The organization encourages community members to contribute in any way possible, whether through donations or volunteer efforts.

For more information on how to help, visit Urban Wagons’ website and join their mission to provide warmth and care to those in need.