Cold weather alert issued for Grand Erie region

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Grand Erie Public Health has issued a cold notification for Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk as temperatures are expected to drop below –15 C or wind chills reach –20 C beginning Sunday.

The alert, issued by the region’s Medical Officer of Health, will “remain in effect until a cancellation notice is issued.”

Officials warn that extreme cold can pose serious health risks, particularly for people outdoors for extended periods or without proper shelter, clothing or heating. Prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia, frostbite or worsening or chronic medical conditions.

Public health officials recommend limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, wearing waterproof boots, drinking warm non-caffeinated fluids and checking on older adults and vulnerable individuals.

Drivers are also encouraged to keep an emergency kit in their vehicles.

More information is available on the Grand Erie Public Health website.

Emergency shelter and warming spaces

Officials are also reminding residents that emergency shelter supports remain available throughout the cold weather season.

If you or someone you know needs immediate emergency shelter, contact SOAR Community Services Emergency Shelter Intake Services at 1-888-621-0034 or email [e-mail]. Intake is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

In-person, walk-in services are available at:

• 73 Murray St., Brantford — daily from 8 a.m. to midnight
• 331 Dalhousie St., Brantford — daily from midnight to 8 a.m.

Additional warming spaces are available through contracted service providers:

• Rosewood House (42 Nelson St.) — 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Salvation Army Booth Centre (187 Dalhousie St.) — up to five men at a time during cold alerts only
• SOAR Community Services (73 Murray St.) — capacity-based warming space from 8 a.m. to midnight

From Nov. 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, the Blessing Centre at 7 Burnley Avenue is open daily from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. for food access and connections to homelessness services.

Residents are encouraged to seek shelter when needed. More information is available at Brantford.ca/EmergencyShelters.