Timeline: January 2024 – September 2024
January – March, 2024
Out of the Cold: Winter Shelter started by local citizens through a combination of BC Housing support, charities, and passionate crowdfunding. Located at Ambulance Hall, rented from the Town of Creston.
March – June, 2024
TOC proposes downtown shelter location. Refused by BC Housing, Den Society, and downtown businesses. Proposal withdrawn.
TOC press release commits to working with BC Housing & CVDS.
Creston Valley Den Society (CVDS) strikes new board, becomes official non-profit.
June – August, 2024
TOC releases a request for proposal for Ambulance Building.
CVDS writes extensive RFP based on provided criteria, supported by BC Housing, social & health non-profits, government agencies. Submitted August 14, 2024. CVDS is the only applicant.
September, 2024
TOC does not follow RFP timeline, does not approve proposal past the stated dates, causing funding to be lost.
CVDS answers additional TOC questions Sept. 30
October – December, 2024
CVDS provides support to unhoused via food, supplies. Continues partnership building & funding.
TOC conducts survey showing 74% support for Extreme Winter Shelter. Fails to secure EWS. Opens warming centre for -10C or colder.
CVDS and the Friends of the Den volunteers help unhoused set up tent camp. TOC allows use of electrical, porta potty, provide garbage pickup.
January – May, 2025
CVDS establishes daily Drop In at Trinity United Church hall thanks to private donations, grants, and supplies from volunteers. Hot lunch, sandwiches, gear, supplies, hygiene options.
CVDS hires an Outreach worker, organizes service providers (local and regional) to connect unhoused and marginally housed clients with benefits and health care. Seeks support for Creston throughout region and province; advocates widely for more local services; accesses a Community Action Team Grant with funding.
TOC in meetings with BC Housing. No info shared publicly, nor plans for shelter/support for unhoused.
May 1 – Tenters are given eviction notice. Talks occur between Mayor and Den reps to find alternative location. While waiting final word, tenters unexpectedly evicted by Town workers and RCMP. Belongings taken to dump. Any tent set up in future must be taken down each day by 9am.
June, 2025
Library Series on Homelessness – great public interest and support.
Den Drop-In services continue 6 days a week.
Rallies at Town Hall held by concerned citizens in support of Shelter.
View the Library Presentation PDF (Includes Timeline)
View the Request for Proposal PDF