City of Toronto to Expand 24-Hour Shelter Services Amid Heat Alerts

Responding to growing concerns over extreme temperatures, city officials announced new funding and facilities to provide 24-hour support to vulnerable populations.

As extreme heat waves become more frequent in Toronto, city officials have announced plans to significantly expand 24-hour shelter services for vulnerable populations. The move comes in response to growing public concern and pressure from advocacy groups calling for greater protection during periods of intense weather.

Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie addressed reporters outside City Hall on Tuesday, stating that the initiative is part of a broader effort to prioritize health and safety. 'We are seeing record temperatures and prolonged heat alerts. This expansion ensures that no one is left to face dangerous conditions alone,' she said.

The city will increase the number of shelter locations operating around the clock, with a focus on downtown cores and underserved neighborhoods. An initial list of sites includes community centers, libraries, and places of worship that have agreed to remain open overnight during heat emergencies.

City staff confirmed that partnerships with local organizations have made the rapid rollout possible. The Toronto Alliance to End Homelessness, for example, has offered logistical support and staffing resources to help manage the added capacity. 'We’re ready to support people where they are,' said spokesperson David Nguyen.

Currently, cooling centers are activated on a temporary basis and often close in the evening, leaving many without refuge during the hottest part of the day. Advocates have long criticized this limitation, arguing that overnight access is critical for individuals experiencing homelessness or living in poorly ventilated housing.

Toronto Public Health has reported an increase in heat-related illnesses over the past three summers, particularly among seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. Emergency room visits for heatstroke and dehydration spike during heat warnings, especially in high-density areas with limited green space.

The new plan includes mobile outreach teams that will distribute water, sunscreen, and transportation vouchers to individuals unable to reach shelter facilities. These teams will also provide wellness checks and connect residents with medical and mental health services as needed.

To accommodate increased demand, the city has allocated an additional $3.2 million from its emergency climate resilience fund. These funds will be used for temporary staff hires, expanded maintenance, and equipment such as industrial fans and portable air conditioning units.

Some city council members are calling for a permanent expansion of shelter services, citing climate change as a long-term challenge. Councillor Alejandra Bravo emphasized that heat-related deaths are preventable and that shelters should not operate solely as seasonal measures.

Despite widespread support, some critics question the sustainability of emergency funding and whether the city’s infrastructure can keep pace with growing demand. Others are advocating for investments in long-term affordable housing solutions, arguing that shelters are only a temporary fix.

The city’s updated website now includes an interactive map of all 24-hour shelters, cooling centers, and hydration stations. Officials encourage residents to check in on vulnerable neighbors and contact 311 to request wellness checks or transportation for those in distress.

As temperatures continue to rise, Toronto’s initiative is being closely watched by other Canadian municipalities. If successful, it may serve as a model for adapting urban services to a changing climate and ensuring that all residents have access to lifesaving support.